If you love a crunchy, sweet treat with a nostalgic twist, this Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe is about to become your new go-to snack. It captures the perfect balance of caramelized sugar and salty roasted peanuts, all made quickly and easily without heating up the entire kitchen. This recipe delivers that classic brittle texture in a fraction of the time, with every bite offering a satisfyingly crisp snap and rich buttery flavor. Whether you’re whipping up a holiday gift or just indulging a sweet tooth, this peanut brittle is a lovable, crowd-pleasing treat you’ll come back to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are incredibly simple but essential to create that authentic sweet, salty, and nutty flavor we all crave in a good peanut brittle. Each element plays a crucial role: sugar and corn syrup form the perfect caramel base, peanuts add texture and saltiness, and a touch of butter and vanilla enrich the flavor and aroma. Baking soda is the little magic that gives you that light, airy crunch you’ll adore.
- 1 cup sugar: The foundation of your brittle’s sweetness and caramelization.
- 1/2 cup white corn syrup (Karo): Keeps the sugar smooth and prevents crystallization for a shiny brittle.
- 1 cup roasted, salted peanuts: Adds a savory crunch and depth of flavor that balances the sweetness.
- 1 tsp butter: Introduces rich creaminess and helps with smooth texture.
- 1 tsp vanilla: Enhances the overall flavor by adding a warm, aromatic note.
- 1 tsp baking soda: Creates air bubbles making the brittle lighter and crispier.
How to Make Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe
Step 1: Combine Sugar and Corn Syrup
Start by mixing your sugar and white corn syrup in a microwave-safe 1 1/2 quart casserole dish. Stir thoroughly to ensure even distribution. This combination is what will eventually transform into a luscious, golden caramel base for your brittle.
Step 2: Microwave Sugar Mixture
Place the dish in the microwave and cook on high for 4 minutes. This initial heating begins to melt and caramelize the sugar, forming the beginning layers of that signature brittle texture.
Step 3: Stir in Roasted Peanuts
As soon as you remove the dish, stir in your roasted, salted peanuts. Mixing them early allows those nuts to warm and begin melding with the sugary base.
Step 4: Continue Microwaving Until Light Brown
Return the dish to the microwave and cook on high for another 3 to 5 minutes. Watch closely here—the mixture should deepen to a lovely light brown color signaling that caramelization is coming together perfectly.
Step 5: Add Butter and Vanilla
Remove from the microwave and immediately stir in butter and vanilla. The butter will melt smoothly into the caramel, adding richness, while the vanilla imparts that cozy, inviting scent and flavor.
Step 6: Microwave Additional 1-2 Minutes
Pop the dish back in the microwave and cook for another minute or two on high. This step ensures all the flavors meld and the mixture reaches the right consistency for adding baking soda.
Step 7: Stir in Baking Soda
Add the baking soda and gently stir until the mixture turns light and foamy. This exciting transformation creates tiny air bubbles that give your peanut brittle that delightfully crisp, airy crunch.
Step 8: Pour onto Cookie Sheet
Quickly pour your foamy peanut brittle mixture onto a lightly greased cookie sheet or onto parchment paper. Spread it out slightly to prepare for cooling and hardening.
Step 9: Cool Completely and Break Into Pieces
Let your peanut brittle cool thoroughly at room temperature—no need to rush! Once hardened, break it into small, snacking-friendly pieces and enjoy the vibrant crunch.
How to Serve Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe
Garnishes
For a festive touch, sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt over your peanut brittle just after pouring it onto the cookie sheet. This enhances the salty sweetness beautifully and makes each piece pop with flavor.
Side Dishes
Peanut brittle is fantastic as a standalone snack, but it also shines when paired with rich desserts like creamy vanilla ice cream or whipped chocolate mousse. The contrast in textures and temperatures is downright delightful.
Creative Ways to Present
Break the peanut brittle into small shards and serve in clear glass jars tied with a ribbon for a charming gift. You can even dip the ends of some pieces in melted dark chocolate to add drama and extra indulgence.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe fresh by storing pieces in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay crisp and delicious for about 2 weeks if kept away from humidity.
Freezing
If you want to store peanut brittle for longer, freezing is an option. Wrap pieces individually in wax or parchment paper, then place them in a sealed freezer bag. Properly wrapped, they can last up to 3 months without losing crunch.
Reheating
Reheating isn’t typically needed since peanut brittle is best enjoyed as-is. But if it softens due to humidity, a quick 10-15 second zap in the microwave can help restore crispness—just be cautious not to melt it!
FAQs
Can I use raw peanuts instead of roasted peanuts?
While raw peanuts can work, roasting them first brings out a deeper flavor and adds the perfect crunch that really makes this Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe shine. So, for best results, use roasted, salted peanuts.
Why do I need the baking soda in the recipe?
Baking soda creates air bubbles in the caramel, making the brittle lighter and giving it that classic airy crunch. Skipping it would result in a much denser, harder candy.
Is it safe to microwave sugar for this long?
Yes, as long as you use a microwave-safe dish and follow the timing closely. Keep an eye on the mixture so it doesn’t burn, and stir as directed for even cooking.
Can I substitute corn syrup with honey or another syrup?
Corn syrup helps prevent crystallization, so swapping it for honey or maple syrup may affect texture and could cause your brittle to be grainy. It’s best to stick with corn syrup for the classic result.
How do I know when the mixture is the right color for pouring out?
Look for a light golden brown color. This signals the sugar has caramelized enough to have developed that rich flavor without burning. If it’s too pale, the brittle may be sticky; if too dark, it might taste bitter.
Final Thoughts
This Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe is a wonderfully fast and satisfying way to create a timeless sweet snack that brings back all the good memories. Its simplicity, combined with that unbeatable crunch and perfect flavor balance, makes it a treat everyone will love. So go ahead, give it a try—you might just find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again!
