Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe
If you’ve ever found yourself craving something delightfully sweet, with a hint of salty crunch, and don’t want to fuss with candy thermometers and stovetops, Microwave Peanut Brittle is your new kitchen best friend. This recipe captures that nostalgic, glassy crunch and rich caramel flavor, but thanks to the microwave, it comes together in just minutes with minimal cleanup. Whether you’re planning treats for the holidays, looking to fill your candy dish, or simply indulging a sudden sweet tooth, you’ll fall in love with how accessible—and delicious—Microwave Peanut Brittle is.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Microwave Peanut Brittle lies in its simplicity—just a handful of pantry staples magically transform into a showstopping candy. Each ingredient plays a vital role in taste, texture, and that irresistible snap.
- Granulated Sugar: The backbone of the brittle, sugar caramelizes for that golden, glassy finish and satisfying crunch.
- Light Corn Syrup: This keeps the mixture pliable and smooth while preventing unwanted sugar crystals.
- Roasted Salted Peanuts: For an extra punch of flavor and a classic nutty crunch in every bite, salted peanuts are a must.
- Butter: Adds a hint of richness and creates a slightly more tender bite.
- Vanilla Extract: Just a splash brings profound depth and warmth to the final candy.
- Baking Soda: The magic ingredient that creates that signature bubbly, feather-light texture by aerating the brittle.
How to Make Microwave Peanut Brittle
Step 1: Prep Your Pan
Start by greasing a baking sheet or lining it with parchment paper. This will make sure the brittle slides right off once it’s cooled, saving you from any sticky struggles later. Have your prepared pan close by, as the mixture sets quickly.
Step 2: Combine Sugar and Corn Syrup
In a large microwave-safe bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and light corn syrup. Stir until just combined—it’ll look thick, but that’s exactly what you want. The large bowl is key here, since the mixture will bubble up as it cooks.
Step 3: First Microwave Session
Microwave the sugar and corn syrup mixture on high for 4 minutes. Keep an eye on it—microwave strengths differ, so you’re looking for the mixture to become clear and bubbly, but not brown yet.
Step 4: Add Peanuts and Continue Cooking
Carefully remove the bowl (it’s hot!), stir in the roasted salted peanuts, and return to the microwave. Cook for another 3 to 5 minutes—this is when the caramelization magic happens! You’ll know it’s ready when the edges start to turn a light golden brown and you smell that toasty aroma.
Step 5: Stir in Butter and Vanilla
Immediately add the butter and vanilla extract, stirring until the butter melts and the mixture looks glossy. Pop the bowl back in the microwave for a quick 1 to 2 minutes, just to let those flavors meld and deepen.
Step 6: Finish with Baking Soda and Spread
This is the moment that brings the wow-factor to Microwave Peanut Brittle! Quickly stir in the baking soda—watch as the mixture foams and grows pale. Without delay, pour the frothy brittle onto your prepared pan and spread it thin with a greased spatula. Let it cool undisturbed until it’s set hard.
Step 7: Break and Enjoy
Once completely cool, break the brittle into shards or bite-size pieces using your hands. It’s time to taste your homemade masterpiece!
How to Serve Microwave Peanut Brittle
Garnishes
For an extra flourish, sprinkle a little flaky sea salt over the brittle while it’s still warm. You can also dust it with a touch of cinnamon or drizzle melted dark chocolate on top for a gourmet twist. These simple garnishes enhance the flavor and make your Microwave Peanut Brittle look even more impressive.
Side Dishes
Microwave Peanut Brittle pairs beautifully with bowls of fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Its sweet, crunchy texture offers a lovely contrast to other desserts, and it’s also perfect with an afternoon cup of coffee or tea for a sophisticated snack duo.
Creative Ways to Present
Gift your brittle by wrapping individual pieces in parchment and tying them with rustic twine, or pile them in a decorative tin for festive holiday giving. For parties, prop the brittle in clear cellophane bags or arrange on a platter among other bite-sized treats—Microwave Peanut Brittle always gets rave reviews when it’s part of a dessert spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover Microwave Peanut Brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Humidity is the enemy of crispness, so store it somewhere cool and dry to maintain that signature snap.
Freezing
Though freezing brittle isn’t always necessary, you can stash it in a well-sealed bag or container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Let it come back to room temperature before serving—the texture will remain satisfyingly crisp.
Reheating
Microwave Peanut Brittle is best enjoyed at room temperature. If your brittle gets a little chewy due to humidity, pop it in a low oven (about 200°F) for 5 to 10 minutes, then cool completely before eating to restore its crunch.
FAQs
Can I use unsalted peanuts or other nuts?
Absolutely! While roasted salted peanuts give the classic flavor, unsalted or even mixed nuts work nicely. Just add a pinch of salt to the recipe to balance the sweetness if you go unsalted.
Why did my brittle turn out chewy instead of crisp?
Usually, this happens if the sugar mixture wasn’t cooked long enough, or if too much humidity crept in during storage. Be sure to microwave until the mixture turns golden and store the finished candy in a sealed container.
Can I double the recipe?
While tempting, doubling can make it tricky to achieve even cooking in the microwave. For best results, make back-to-back batches rather than doubling all at once.
Is it necessary to use light corn syrup?
Light corn syrup helps prevent crystals and keeps the texture smooth. If needed, golden syrup is a good substitute, though honey or maple syrup will change the flavor and may alter the final texture.
How do I prevent the brittle from sticking to the pan?
Generously grease your baking sheet or use parchment paper. A greased heatproof spatula also helps spread the brittle quickly before it sets.
Final Thoughts
Microwave Peanut Brittle is pure kitchen magic—a fun, rewarding treat to make and share. Whether you’re crafting batches for gifts or sneaking a sweet snack, this quick, fuss-free recipe is sure to win over candy lovers of all ages. Give it a try, and prepare to fall in love with just how easy homemade candy can be!
Print
Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free
Description
Learn how to make quick and easy Microwave Peanut Brittle at home with this simple recipe. This sweet and crunchy candy is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or for gifting during the holidays.
Ingredients
Sugar Mixture:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 cup roasted salted peanuts
- 1 teaspoon butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
- Microwave Sugar Mixture: In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine sugar and corn syrup. Microwave on high for 4 minutes.
- Add Peanuts: Stir in peanuts and microwave for another 3–5 minutes, until light golden brown.
- Final Steps: Add butter and vanilla, stirring quickly. Microwave for 1–2 more minutes. Immediately stir in baking soda—the mixture will foam and lighten.
- Spread and Cool: Quickly pour onto the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly with a greased spatula. Let cool completely, then break into pieces.
Notes
- Microwave wattages vary, so keep a close eye on the mixture to avoid burning.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle a touch of sea salt over the brittle while it’s still warm.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Candy
- Method: Microwave
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 19 g
- Sodium: 100 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
