Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe
If you’re looking for a sweet, crunchy treat that comes together in a flash, this Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe is your new best friend. It captures that nostalgic, caramelized peanut flavor with a glossy, crisp texture, all without the fuss of stovetop candy-making. With just a few simple ingredients and your microwave, you’ll have a batch of irresistible peanut brittle ready to share (or secretly stash away) in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a special part in crafting the perfect balance of sweet, buttery, and crunchy. These staples are easy to find and come together beautifully to create that classic brittle glaze and texture.
- White sugar: The essential base for that caramelized sweetness and glossy finish.
- Light corn syrup: Helps prevent crystallization and keeps the brittle smooth.
- Unsalted dry roasted peanuts: Adds the signature crunch and nutty flavor.
- Butter: Provides richness and silky mouthfeel.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances depth and warmth of flavor.
- Baking soda: Creates light, airy bubbles that give the brittle its delicate texture.
How to Make Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe
Step 1: Mix Sugar and Corn Syrup
Start by combining the white sugar and light corn syrup in a microwave-safe bowl. Stirring these together helps ensure even melting and prevents sugar crystals from forming later on.
Step 2: Microwave the Sugar Mixture
Place the bowl in the microwave and cook on high for 4 minutes. This initial cooking softens and melts the sugar blend into a golden syrup that’s ready for the peanuts.
Step 3: Add the Peanuts
Stir in the dry roasted peanuts, which will soak up that sweet syrupy goodness and add delightful crunch to every bite.
Step 4: Microwave Again with Peanuts
Return the bowl to the microwave and cook on high for another 3 and a half minutes. This step toasts and caramelizes the nuts while thickening the mixture.
Step 5: Incorporate Butter and Vanilla
Mix in the butter and vanilla extract, stirring until fully combined. Then microwave for an additional one and a half minutes to blend these flavors into the brittle base, enhancing richness and aroma.
Step 6: Add Baking Soda and Stir
Quickly add the baking soda and stir vigorously. This causes the mixture to foam and lighten in color, creating those classic brittle bubbles that make the texture so irresistible.
Step 7: Pour and Cool
Pour the foamy mixture onto a greased baking sheet and spread evenly. Let it cool completely until it’s firm and brittle ready for breaking.
Step 8: Break into Pieces and Enjoy
Once cooled, simply break the peanut brittle into bite-sized chunks and savor that addictive crunch and sweet nuttiness.
How to Serve Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe
Garnishes
Try sprinkling flaky sea salt atop the warm brittle right after spreading to enhance the sweet flavor with a touch of savory contrast. A light dusting of cinnamon also adds a warm spice note that complements the peanuts beautifully.
Side Dishes
Microwave peanut brittle makes a perfect sweet finish alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or dollop of whipped cream. It also pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, adding a crunchy complement to your cozy drink.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your brittle in clear jars tied with a colorful ribbon as a charming homemade gift. For parties, arrange small piles on decorative plates or stack pieces between parchment paper in a festive holiday tin to wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover microwave peanut brittle fresh by storing it in an airtight container at room temperature. Properly sealed, it will retain its crisp texture for up to two weeks, giving you plenty of time to enjoy it.
Freezing
To store for longer, you can freeze peanut brittle in a freezer-safe container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature and it will stay crunchy and delicious.
Reheating
If your brittle loses some crispness, a brief 5-10 second zap in the microwave can revive its snap. Just be careful not to overheat as it can soften too much or burn.
FAQs
Can I use salted peanuts instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can, but be cautious with added salt in the recipe. Using salted peanuts will give a salty-sweet flavor, which some people love. Adjust salt additions accordingly.
Is it safe to make peanut brittle in the microwave?
Absolutely! Using the microwave simplifies the process by controlling cooking time and temperature, so you get wonderfully consistent results without the risk of burning sugar on the stove.
Can I substitute the peanuts for other nuts?
Definitely! Almonds, cashews, or pecans can work well, providing a unique twist on this classic brittle while maintaining that delightful crunch.
Why do I need baking soda in the recipe?
Baking soda aerates the mixture when stirred in hot syrup, creating tiny bubbles that make the brittle light and crisp instead of overly hard.
What if my brittle is sticky or chewy instead of crisp?
This usually means the sugar didn’t cook long enough or the temperature wasn’t high enough. Try increasing the microwave time slightly next time and ensure you spread it thin on the baking sheet to cool.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about making your own peanut brittle at home, especially when it comes together in minutes using just your microwave. This Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe brings that old-fashioned crunchy sweetness right into your kitchen with ease and no stress. I genuinely hope you enjoy every crackly, nutty bite and share this cozy treat with those you love!
Print
Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This quick and easy Microwave Peanut Brittle recipe delivers a classic sweet and crunchy treat made with sugar, corn syrup, peanuts, and a hint of vanilla, all prepared effortlessly in the microwave within 15 minutes, perfect for satisfying your candy cravings at home.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup unsalted dry roasted peanuts
- 1 teaspoon butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
Instructions
- Combine sugar and corn syrup: In a microwave-safe bowl, stir together 1 cup white sugar and 1/2 cup light corn syrup until well blended.
- Initial microwave heating: Microwave the mixture on high for 4 minutes to begin dissolving the sugar and creating the base syrup.
- Add peanuts: Stir in 1 cup unsalted dry roasted peanuts evenly into the hot syrup.
- Second microwave heating: Microwave on high for an additional 3 1/2 minutes to roast the peanuts and cook the mixture further.
- Add butter and vanilla: Stir in 1 teaspoon butter and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to enhance flavor and microwave for 1 1/2 minutes to incorporate.
- Incorporate baking soda: Add 1 teaspoon baking soda and stir vigorously until the mixture becomes light, foamy, and aerated, which helps create the brittle texture.
- Set the brittle: Pour the hot mixture onto a greased baking sheet and spread it out evenly to cool and harden.
- Break and serve: Once cooled and hardened, break into pieces and enjoy your homemade microwave peanut brittle.
Notes
- Use a microwave-safe bowl large enough to prevent overflow as the mixture will bubble while cooking.
- Be careful when handling the hot syrup to avoid burns.
- You can substitute light corn syrup with golden syrup or honey, though texture might vary slightly.
- Store peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain crispness.
- For a nut-free alternative, omit peanuts and consider adding seeds or puffed rice.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Microwaving
- Cuisine: American
