Guide to Virginia Peanuts and Other Varieties

From their bold flavor and recipe versatility to their impressive nutritional benefits, peanuts deserve a spot in every pantry. But did you know the peanuts in your favorite jar of peanut butter aren’t the same ones you’d use for a spicy batch of boiled peanuts? Different types of peanuts serve different purposes, and each variety brings something unique to the table. Keep reading to discover the four types of peanuts grown in the U.S. and learn why the Virginia variety stands out as the snacking favorite.

Virginia Peanuts: The Star of the Show

As the reigning gourmet peanut variety, Virginia peanuts are the largest of all types, known for their premium flavor and stand out characteristics. Often considered the "snack nut," extra large Virginia peanuts shine on charcuterie boards, in party mixes, or served alongside a glass of wine. Due to their impressive size and nearly perfect shape, they’re less commonly used in peanut butters, candies, or other processed peanut products.

In-shell Virginia peanuts are a classic choice for snacking—especially at ballparks and sports games, where they’ve become a nostalgic staple. When you purchase Virginia peanuts from Hampton Farms, you can trust that each nut has been carefully screened for size, color, and quality to ensure a consistently top-notch experience.

We offer both slow-roasted, shelled Virginia peanuts and in-shell varieties. Our most popular in-shell options include Cajun Hot, Salted, and Unsalted, while our raw in-shell Virginia peanuts are ideal for boiling at home. Throughout the year, we introduce trending peanut flavors to keep our offerings fresh, exciting, and perfectly in step with what our customers crave.

Other Peanut Types: The Supporting Cast

Besides traditional Virginia peanuts, there are three main types grown in the U.S., each offering unique characteristics and culinary uses. While Hampton Farms specializes in Virginia peanuts, it’s helpful to know the differences between these popular varieties.

Valencia Peanuts

Valencia peanuts are easily identified by their three or more kernels per shell and are the preferred choice for boiled peanuts, especially popular in the southeastern U.S. These peanuts have a naturally sweeter taste than other varieties, making them ideal for use in all-natural peanut butters. Despite their versatility, Valencia peanuts represent the smallest share of peanut production in the U.S. Most are processed through a single shelling facility in New Mexico.

Runner Peanuts

Runner peanuts are the most widely grown variety in the U.S., known for producing high yields and consistent quality. They have a more rounded, uniform shape, which makes them perfect for even roasting, a major advantage in large-scale processing. Because of their size and shape, Runners are commonly used in candies, snack mixes, and some commercial peanut butters.

Spanish Peanuts

Spanish peanuts are easy to spot with their small, reddish-brown skins and compact size. Though they represent a smaller portion of U.S. peanut production, they pack a punch in flavor. Thanks to their higher oil content, Spanish peanuts develop a rich, savory taste when roasted, making them a favorite in confections, peanut candies, and premium nut butters.

Hampton Farms has been delivering the freshest, highest-quality peanuts from seed to shelf since 1917. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue, packing for a game, or just craving a wholesome snack, choose Hampton Farms for peanuts you can trust.