If you’ve ever craved that satisfyingly crunchy, sweet, and nutty treat but hesitated to tackle the complex candy-making process, this Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe is your golden ticket. It transforms a handful of simple pantry staples into a delightful, homemade brittle with a perfectly crisp texture and rich layers of flavor, all without breaking a sweat in the kitchen or heating a stovetop. Trust me, once you try this quick and easy recipe, it’ll become your go-to for holidays, gifts, or anytime you need a sweet pick-me-up that feels like a special occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe plays a crucial role, so don’t underestimate their simplicity. From the crunch of roasted salted peanuts to the silky smoothness of butter and the slight tang from baking soda, these essentials come together beautifully to create both texture and flavor.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: This is the sweet foundation that caramelizes to create that classic brittle crunch.
- ½ cup light corn syrup: Prevents sugar crystals from forming for a smooth, glossy finish.
- 1 cup roasted salted peanuts: Adds the unmistakable nutty textural contrast classic to peanut brittle.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Enriches the brittle with a subtle richness and helps with the glossy shine.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the overall flavor.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Introduces air bubbles for a lighter, more brittle texture that melts in your mouth.
How to Make Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Workstation
Start by greasing a baking sheet or lining it with parchment paper. This essential step ensures your brittle won’t stick and will release easily once cooled, saving you from sticky frustrations later on.
Step 2: Combine Sugar and Corn Syrup
In a large, microwave-safe glass bowl, stir together the granulated sugar and light corn syrup just until combined. This mixture forms the sweet, molten base that will caramelize beautifully in the microwave.
Step 3: Microwave the Sugar Mixture
Place the bowl in the microwave on high power for 4 minutes. Be careful when handling the bowl afterward—it will be hot and sizzling. This initial cooking stage starts to melt and caramelize your sugar mixture.
Step 4: Stir in the Peanuts
Remove the bowl carefully and stir in your roasted salted peanuts. Their saltiness complements the sweet mixture perfectly. Then, microwave again on high for another 3 to 4 minutes, watching closely until the mixture turns a light golden brown, signaling it’s nearly perfect.
Step 5: Add Butter and Vanilla
Remove from the microwave and quickly stir in the unsalted butter and vanilla extract. Then pop it back in your microwave for 1 more minute. This step enriches your brittle with creamy notes and intensifies flavor without delay.
Step 6: Stir in Baking Soda and Spread the Mixture
Right after microwaving, add the baking soda and stir immediately. Watch as the mixture foams and expands—this is what gives your brittle its signature airy crunch. Pour the bubbly mixture onto your prepared baking sheet and spread it out quickly and as thin as possible with a greased spatula to ensure crispness.
Step 7: Cool and Break
Allow the brittle to cool completely for about 30 minutes. Once hardened, break it into irregular pieces for that rustic, homemade feel. Your Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe is ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe
Garnishes
While the brittle shines on its own, sprinkling a little flaky sea salt over the top right after spreading can elevate the flavor by balancing sweet and savory. For a festive touch, toss on some edible glitter or a light dusting of cinnamon sugar.
Side Dishes
This Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a rich coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. It also complements dessert cheese boards featuring mild cheeses and dried fruits, offering a lovely crunch to contrast creamy textures.
Creative Ways to Present
For gifting or entertaining, place broken pieces in clear cellophane bags tied with colorful ribbons. Layered in jars with alternating nuts or spices, it makes an irresistible edible gift. You can even crush some to sprinkle over frosted cakes or cupcakes as a crunchy topping.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your leftover Microwave Peanut Brittle in an airtight container at room temperature, away from moisture. This will keep it crisp and fresh for up to two weeks, perfect for nibbling or sharing with friends and family over time.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the brittle in a sealed container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. It can stay frozen for up to 3 months and will thaw quickly at room temperature.
Reheating
Since this treat is designed to be enjoyed crunchy and at room temperature, reheating is generally unnecessary. However, if your brittle softens, popping it in a low oven (around 250°F) for 5 to 10 minutes can help restore crispness—just watch carefully to prevent burning.
FAQs
Can I use raw peanuts instead of roasted salted peanuts?
Absolutely! Using raw peanuts will give your microwave peanut brittle a less salty flavor and a slightly different texture. Just keep in mind that roasted peanuts add that classic crunch and savory contrast that’s hard to beat.
Is this Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it naturally is! All the ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free, making it a safe and delicious option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Why do I need to use baking soda in the recipe?
Baking soda creates tiny air bubbles in the hot sugar mixture, which gives the brittle its characteristic light and crunchy texture. Skipping this step would result in a much denser, harder candy.
What type of microwave-safe bowl should I use?
Choose a deep, microwave-safe glass bowl to prevent the hot sugar mixture from bubbling over. Glass is ideal because it heats evenly and shows the color changes more clearly as the caramel cooks.
Can I substitute corn syrup with honey or maple syrup?
Corn syrup helps prevent crystallization, so it’s the best choice for this recipe’s texture. While you can experiment with honey or maple syrup, your brittle might crystallize or have a different consistency, so proceed with caution.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe enough for anyone who loves a sweet, crunchy treat without all the fuss. It’s quick, straightforward, and incredibly rewarding, turning everyday ingredients into a gorgeous homemade candy that’s sure to impress your friends and family. Grab your microwave-safe bowl, give this a whirl, and get ready to fall in love with homemade peanut brittle all over again!
Print
Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 9 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Microwave
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free, Vegetarian
Description
This Microwave Peanut Brittle recipe is a quick and easy way to enjoy a classic homemade candy treat. Using simple ingredients like sugar, corn syrup, and roasted salted peanuts, combined with a microwave cooking method, you can create a perfect crunchy brittle in under an hour. It’s gluten-free, vegetarian-friendly, and perfect for holiday gatherings or whenever you crave a sweet, nutty snack.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup roasted salted 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 aside to make sure the brittle can cool and set properly.
- Combine Sugar and Corn Syrup: In a large microwave-safe glass bowl, stir together the granulated sugar and light corn syrup until well combined to ensure even cooking.
- Microwave First Stage: Microwave the sugar and corn syrup mixture on high for 4 minutes, allowing it to start melting and caramelizing.
- Add Peanuts: Carefully remove the bowl (it will be very hot) and stir in the roasted salted peanuts to evenly distribute them throughout the mixture.
- Microwave Second Stage: Microwave again on high for 3 to 4 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden brown, indicating proper caramelization.
- Add Butter and Vanilla: Remove the bowl and quickly stir in the unsalted butter and vanilla extract to add flavor and richness.
- Microwave Final Stage: Microwave the mixture for an additional 1 minute to fully incorporate the flavors and melt the butter.
- Stir in Baking Soda: Immediately add the baking soda and stir rapidly. The mixture will foam and expand, creating a light texture.
- Shape Brittle: Quickly pour the foamed mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it out as thin as possible using a greased spatula to form the brittle.
- Cool and Break: Let the brittle cool completely for about 30 minutes until hardened, then break it into pieces and store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Use a deep, microwave-safe bowl to avoid overflow from the foaming sugar mixture and take care handling hot ingredients to prevent burns.
- You can substitute raw peanuts if you prefer less salty brittle, although roasting gives a better flavor and texture.
- Store the peanut brittle in a cool, dry place to prevent it from becoming sticky and to keep it fresh longer.
