If you’re craving a sweet, crunchy treat with a nostalgic crunch, this Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe is going to become your new go-to snack. It captures the classic buttery, caramelized sugar flavor paired with the satisfying roast of peanuts, all made effortlessly in your microwave. No stovetop fuss, no candy thermometer—just pure, quick enjoyment wrapped up in a brittle that’s perfect for sharing or savoring one piece at a time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for just a handful of straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role. From the crunchy peanuts to the glossy, sweet syrup blend, every element works in harmony to deliver perfect brittle texture and flavor.
- Granulated Sugar: Acts as the foundation, caramelizing beautifully to create that signature brittle crunch.
- Light Corn Syrup: Prevents sugar crystallization and keeps the brittle smooth and glossy.
- Dry Roasted Peanuts: Adds a rich, nutty flavor and satisfying crunch – dry roasting intensifies their aroma.
- Unsalted Butter: Brings a silky richness and depth of flavor, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm aromatic note that enhances the candy’s overall taste.
- Baking Soda: Introduces air bubbles, creating a lighter, slightly airy texture in the brittle.
How to Make Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe
Step 1: Prepare your work surface
Start by greasing a baking sheet or lining it with parchment paper. This ensures that once your brittle sets, it will release easily without sticking—speed is crucial in the next steps, so have this ready before you start cooking.
Step 2: Combine sugar and corn syrup
In a large microwave-safe glass bowl, stir together one cup of granulated sugar and half a cup of light corn syrup. Microwave this mixture on high for 4 minutes to melt and start caramelizing the sugar. You’ll notice the syrup bubbling and thickening—this is where the magic begins.
Step 3: Stir in the peanuts
Carefully remove the bowl from the microwave and stir in one cup of dry roasted peanuts. Return it to the microwave and cook for an additional 3 minutes. This step toasts the nuts further in the hot syrup, infusing the whole mixture with that irresistible nutty aroma.
Step 4: Add butter and vanilla
Next, stir in one tablespoon of unsalted butter and one teaspoon of vanilla extract. Return the bowl to the microwave for one last minute to melt the butter into the mixture and marry those rich flavors. The mixture will look beautifully glossy and luscious now.
Step 5: Mix in baking soda and set
Quickly stir in one teaspoon of baking soda. The mixture will foam and lighten in color right away—a sign it’s aerating and becoming light and crispy when cooled. Immediately pour the airy mixture onto your prepared baking sheet and spread it thin using a spatula. Let it cool completely at room temperature before breaking it into 16 pieces. This quick step is essential for that perfect brittle snap.
How to Serve Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of flaky sea salt over the brittle just before it sets can elevate the flavors, balancing the sweetness with a hint of savory. You could also dust it lightly with cinnamon for a warming twist that complements the peanuts beautifully.
Side Dishes
This peanut brittle is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with coffee or a rich cup of hot chocolate. For a crowd-pleaser, serve it alongside vanilla ice cream or a fruit platter to contrast the sweet crunch with fresh, juicy bites.
Creative Ways to Present
For gifting or parties, wrap broken pieces in colorful cellophane bags tied with a ribbon. You could also press the still-warm brittle into small silicone molds to create fun shapes, adding flair to your presentation with minimal effort.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover brittle stays fresh and crispy when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid moisture, as any humidity will soften the candy and ruin its delightful crunch. Kept right, your Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe can last up to two weeks.
Freezing
If you want to save it longer, freeze the brittle wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a sealed container or freezer bag. When stored this way, it can maintain its texture for up to three months without any loss of flavor.
Reheating
If the brittle softens or you want to freshen it up, place pieces on a baking sheet in an oven preheated to 250°F (120°C) for 5 to 10 minutes. This will crisp it back up without melting or burning it, reviving that perfect crunch.
FAQs
Can I use raw peanuts instead of dry roasted?
Absolutely! Using raw peanuts is fine, but dry roasted peanuts bring out a deeper, nuttier flavor and a bit more crunch, which helps build that classic peanut brittle taste.
What if my brittle turns out sticky?
Sticky brittle usually means it’s undercooked or stored improperly. Make sure to microwave for the full time and cool completely in a dry place. Storing in an airtight container at room temperature also helps keep it crisp.
Is it necessary to add baking soda?
Yes, baking soda is crucial for creating light foaming in the mixture that adds air pockets. This makes the brittle less dense, giving it the ideal texture and a slight crispy snap.
Can I substitute corn syrup with something else?
Corn syrup prevents the sugar from crystallizing, so it’s best not to skip or substitute it with honey or maple syrup, which behave differently when cooked. If corn syrup is unavailable, you can try glucose syrup as a close alternative.
How long should I keep stirring during microwaving?
Follow the microwaving and stirring schedule as described: stir after the first 4 minutes, then again after adding peanuts, and lastly after adding butter and vanilla. This ensures even cooking and prevents burning or uneven caramelization.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe a try because it’s one of those small joys that feels like a treat and a labor of love all in one. So quick, so tasty, and with that delightful crunch, it’s a perfect homemade candy to keep on hand for whenever a sweet craving hits or to share heartfelt joy with friends and family. Enjoy the sweet moments!
Print
Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 13 minutes
- Yield: 16 pieces
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Microwave
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free, Vegetarian
Description
This Microwave Peanut Brittle recipe offers a quick and easy way to create a classic, crunchy candy with simple ingredients. Using the microwave reduces cook time while still delivering the perfect balance of sweet, nutty, and buttery flavors. Ideal for holiday treats or anytime you crave homemade candy without the fuss.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup dry roasted peanuts
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
Instructions
- Prepare baking sheet: Grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper and set it aside to be ready for pouring the brittle mixture later.
- Combine sugar and corn syrup: In a large microwave-safe glass bowl, stir together 1 cup granulated sugar and 1/2 cup light corn syrup until well combined.
- Microwave mixture: Microwave the sugar and corn syrup mixture on high for 4 minutes to start melting and caramelizing the sugar.
- Add peanuts and microwave: Carefully stir in 1 cup dry roasted peanuts. Microwave the mixture for an additional 3 minutes, allowing the peanuts to release flavor and the mix to thicken.
- Add butter and vanilla: Stir in 1 tablespoon unsalted butter and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Microwave for 1 more minute, blending in the rich flavors and softening the mixture.
- Incorporate baking soda: Quickly stir in 1 teaspoon baking soda. The mixture will foam and lighten in color. This aerates the brittle, making it crisp and light.
- Spread the brittle: Immediately pour the foamy mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it evenly thin using a spatula to ensure quick and even cooling.
- Cool and break: Let the brittle cool completely at room temperature, allowing it to harden before breaking it into roughly 16 pieces for serving.
Notes
- Work quickly after adding the baking soda, as the brittle sets very fast and becomes difficult to spread.
- Store the peanut brittle in an airtight container to maintain its crisp texture and prevent it from becoming sticky.
- You can substitute raw peanuts if preferred, but dry roasted peanuts provide a richer flavor and crunch.
