If you’re craving a crunchy, sweet treat that comes together in no time, this Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine buttery, caramelized sugar mingling perfectly with roasted peanuts, all crafted effortlessly in your microwave without the fuss of candy thermometers or long cooking times. It’s sweet, salty, and ridiculously addictive—perfect for sharing, gifting, or sneaking a piece or two when nobody’s looking.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might be simple, but each plays a crucial role in building that irresistible texture and flavor that defines perfect peanut brittle. From the sticky sweetness of sugar and corn syrup to the richness of butter, every component is essential.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: The foundation for sweetness and caramelization that gives brittle its signature crunch.
- ½ cup corn syrup: Keeps the sugar from crystallizing, ensuring a smooth, glossy texture.
- ⅛ teaspoon salt (omit if using salted peanuts): Enhances flavor by balancing the sweetness and boosting the roasted peanuts’ natural taste.
- 1 ½ cups unsalted peanuts: Adds crunch and nutty richness to every bite; using unsalted allows you to control the salt level.
- 1 Tablespoon butter: Brings an indulgent creaminess that deepens the flavors and softens the candy slightly for perfect bite.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, aromatic depth that makes the brittle taste homemade and special.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Creates those delightful airy bubbles, giving peanut brittle its light, crisp texture.
How to Make Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Cookie Sheet
Start by buttering a rimmed cookie sheet generously. This step is crucial because it prevents your brittle from sticking once it sets, making it easier to break into perfect little pieces later. Set it aside while you whip up the sugary goodness.
Step 2: Cook the Sugar Mixture
In a microwave-safe glass bowl, combine the granulated sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Microwave on high for 3 and a half minutes. This initial cook melts and blends the sugars, creating the base for the brittle’s caramel sweetness. Keep an eye—your microwave power may vary slightly, so watch for bubbling.
Step 3: Add Peanuts and Continue Cooking
Stir in the peanuts, then microwave the mixture for an additional 3 minutes. During this stage, the peanuts toast slightly, releasing their oils and flavors into the sugar syrup. You’ll notice the mixture turning a beautiful light brown—this signals it’s reaching that perfect caramel stage.
Step 4: Stir in Butter and Vanilla
Mix in the butter and vanilla extract, then microwave for another 90 seconds. The butter enriches the brittle with a silky texture, and the vanilla adds a lovely fragrant note that will make your kitchen smell like candy heaven.
Step 5: Add Baking Soda and Pour
Finally, sprinkle in the baking soda and stir gently but quickly; the mixture will foam up and lighten in color. Immediately pour this luscious concoction onto your prepared cookie sheet. Carefully tilt and rotate the sheet to spread the mixture evenly to about half an inch thickness. This quick action ensures your peanut brittle sets evenly and crisply.
Step 6: Let It Cool and Break
Allow the brittle to cool and harden for 20 to 30 minutes at room temperature. Once fully set, break it into bite-sized pieces with your hands or a knife. Store your homemade peanut brittle in an airtight container to keep it fresh and snappy.
How to Serve Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe
Garnishes
While peanut brittle is delicious on its own, you can add a fun twist by sprinkling a tiny bit of flaky sea salt right before it cools to amp up the flavor contrast. For special occasions, consider drizzling melted dark chocolate or white chocolate over the brittle after it has cooled for a decorative and decadent finish.
Side Dishes
Peanut brittle pairs wonderfully with simple accompaniments like a hot cup of coffee or tea, offering a satisfying crunch alongside a soothing sip. It also makes a delightful topping over vanilla ice cream or yogurt for a sweet and salty crunch that elevates any dessert.
Creative Ways to Present
For gifting or entertaining, break the brittle into varied-sized pieces and package them in colorful cellophane bags tied with ribbons for a charming homemade gift. Or arrange the brittle shards in a clear glass jar for a rustic yet elegant presentation that invites guests to indulge.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover peanut brittle fresh by storing it in an airtight container at room temperature. Make sure the container is sealed tight to prevent moisture from sneaking in, which can soften the brittle and dull its delightful snap.
Freezing
If you want to keep your peanut brittle extra fresh for an extended period, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it inside an airtight, freezer-safe container. Properly stored, microwave peanut brittle stays fresh for up to three months in the freezer without losing its crunch.
Reheating
Peanut brittle is best enjoyed as is, but if it loses some of its crispness, simply leave it at room temperature for a few hours to come back to life. Avoid microwaving brittle again as it tends to soften rather than regain its original texture when reheated.
FAQs
Can I use salted peanuts in this microwave peanut brittle recipe?
Yes, you can, but you should omit the added salt listed in the ingredients to avoid making the brittle too salty. Salted peanuts will contribute enough seasoning on their own.
What’s the purpose of baking soda in peanut brittle?
Baking soda lightens the brittle by creating tiny air bubbles, which gives it that delicate, crisp texture and prevents it from being too hard or dense.
Can I use other nuts besides peanuts?
Absolutely! While the classic recipe calls for peanuts, feel free to try almonds, cashews, or pecans based on your preference. Just keep the quantity the same for best results.
How do I know when the sugar mixture is cooked enough?
Look for the mixture to become light golden brown and bubbly. This indicates the sugar has caramelized properly. Different microwaves vary, so watching closely is important to avoid burning.
Is it necessary to microwave the sugar mixture instead of cooking on the stove?
This microwave peanut brittle recipe is designed for convenience without sacrificing flavor or texture. You can cook it on the stove, but the microwave method saves time and reduces cleanup, making it perfect for quick homemade candy.
Final Thoughts
Making your own peanut brittle with this microwave peanut brittle recipe is a joyful and surprisingly easy way to treat yourself and your loved ones. It’s the kind of recipe that feels special yet requires minimal effort, delivering that perfect crunch and caramel flavor every single time. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and start creating some candy magic in your microwave—you won’t regret it!
Print
Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Microwaving
- Cuisine: American
Description
This easy Microwave Peanut Brittle recipe delivers a crunchy, sweet treat with the classic flavors of roasted peanuts and caramelized sugar. Ready in just 15 minutes and requiring only simple ingredients and a microwave, it’s perfect for candy lovers wanting a quick homemade snack without the fuss of stovetop cooking.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup corn syrup
- â…› teaspoon salt (omit if using salted peanuts)
- 1 ½ cups unsalted peanuts
- 1 Tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Butter a rimmed cookie sheet thoroughly and set it aside to ensure the brittle doesn’t stick when poured out.
- Cook sugar mixture: In a microwave-safe glass bowl, combine granulated sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Microwave on high for 3.5 minutes to start melting and caramelizing the sugars.
- Add peanuts and continue cooking: Stir in the unsalted peanuts and microwave for an additional 3 minutes, or until the mixture turns a light brown color, indicating caramelization.
- Incorporate butter and vanilla: Add butter and vanilla extract to the mixture and microwave for another 1.5 minutes to blend flavors and further melt the brittle.
- Add baking soda and spread: Quickly stir in baking soda until the mixture becomes light and foamy. Immediately pour onto the prepared cookie sheet and gently rotate the pan to spread the brittle evenly to about ½ inch thickness.
- Cool and break: Allow the peanut brittle to cool and set for 20 to 30 minutes. Once hardened, break into small, bite-sized pieces and store in an airtight container for freshness.
Notes
- Use unsalted peanuts unless you omit the added salt for balanced sweetness.
- Work quickly after adding baking soda because the mixture foams and hardens rapidly.
- Ensure thorough buttering of the pan to easily remove brittle once set.
- Store brittle in an airtight container to maintain crispness and prevent moisture absorption.
