Microwave Peanut Brittle

Peanut brittle is a timeless treat that offers the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and crunchy. This microwave peanut brittle recipe provides a quicker and easier alternative to the traditional stovetop method, making it an excellent choice when you’re craving something sweet without the need for a long cooking process. The microwave method takes only 15 minutes from start to finish, allowing you to enjoy fresh, homemade brittle with minimal effort. With just a handful of ingredients – sugar, corn syrup, peanuts, butter, vanilla, and baking soda – you can create a deliciously crunchy and irresistible snack that’s perfect for holidays, parties, or as a special homemade gift. The simplicity of the recipe ensures that even beginners in the kitchen can successfully whip up a batch of this classic treat. Once made, this peanut brittle has the perfect crisp texture and a delightful sweetness that melts in your mouth. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress anyone who loves a good sweet and salty treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

This microwave version of peanut brittle takes just 15 minutes to make, which is perfect for when you’re short on time.

2. Simple Ingredients

With only a few ingredients, you can easily make this candy at home without any special equipment.

3. No Need for a Candy Thermometer

Unlike traditional methods, this recipe doesn’t require a candy thermometer to ensure the perfect texture.

4. Perfect for Gifting

Wrap up your homemade peanut brittle in a cute tin or cellophane bag, and you’ve got an affordable and thoughtful gift.

5. Crunchy and Irresistible

The combination of peanuts and caramelized sugar creates a sweet, salty, and crunchy treat that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients

• White sugar
• Light corn syrup
• Unsalted peanuts
• Butter
• Vanilla extract
• Baking soda

Variations

1. Chocolate-Dipped Peanut Brittle

Melt some chocolate chips and dip the cooled brittle pieces for an extra indulgent touch.

2. Other Nuts

Swap out peanuts for other nuts like cashews, almonds, or pecans for a different flavor.

3. Salted Peanut Brittle

Sprinkle a bit of sea salt over the brittle before it cools for a sweet and salty contrast.

4. Spicy Peanut Brittle

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the mixture for a spicy twist.

5. Vanilla-Maple Peanut Brittle

For a new flavor profile, replace the vanilla extract with maple extract for a hint of maple sweetness.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Combine Sugar and Corn Syrup

In a microwave-safe bowl, mix together the white sugar and light corn syrup.

Step 2: Microwave the Mixture

Place the bowl in the microwave and cook on high for 5 minutes, allowing the sugar to dissolve into the syrup.

Step 3: Add Peanuts

Stir in the unsalted peanuts and microwave for an additional 3 1/2 minutes.

Step 4: Stir in Butter and Vanilla

Carefully remove the bowl and stir in the butter and vanilla extract. Microwave for another 1 1/2 minutes.

Step 5: Add Baking Soda

Remove the bowl from the microwave and quickly stir in the baking soda. The mixture will foam up, so stir rapidly.

Step 6: Spread and Cool

Immediately pour the mixture onto a greased baking sheet. Spread it out into an even layer and let it cool completely.

Step 7: Break and Enjoy

Once cooled, break the brittle into pieces and enjoy your homemade treat!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Be Careful with the Hot Mixture: The sugar mixture can get extremely hot, so handle with care and use oven mitts when removing the bowl from the microwave.
• Grease the Baking Sheet Well: To make sure your brittle doesn’t stick, grease the baking sheet thoroughly or line it with parchment paper.
• Stir Quickly When Adding Baking Soda: The baking soda causes the mixture to foam, so be quick in stirring it in to avoid spilling.
• Microwave Power Varies: Depending on your microwave’s wattage, you may need to adjust the cooking times slightly.
• Use a Sturdy Bowl: Ensure your microwave-safe bowl is large enough to handle the expanding volume of the mixture, especially when adding baking soda.

How to Serve

Microwave peanut brittle is delicious on its own as a snack or dessert. Serve it with coffee or tea for a delightful pairing, or break it into small pieces and use it as a topping for ice cream or yogurt. You can also package the brittle in a gift box for a homemade treat that’s perfect for holidays, birthdays, or any special occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your leftover peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Ensure it is fully cooled before storing to prevent any moisture from affecting its crisp texture.

Freezing

Although freezing is not recommended for maintaining the crispy texture, you can freeze peanut brittle for up to three months if needed. Allow it to cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Reheating

If you find the brittle has softened over time, you can re-crisp it in the oven at a low temperature (around 250°F) for a few minutes to restore its crunch.

FAQs

1. Can I use salted peanuts?

Yes, but be sure to adjust the amount of salt in the recipe to avoid making the brittle too salty.

2. How long does microwave peanut brittle last?

It can last up to two weeks when stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature.

3. Can I use other nuts in the recipe?

Yes, almonds, cashews, or pecans can be substituted for peanuts in this recipe.

4. Can I make peanut brittle without a microwave?

Yes, you can use a stovetop method, but the microwave version is much quicker.

5. How do I know when the peanut brittle is done?

The brittle will harden as it cools. It’s ready when it snaps easily.

6. Can I make this recipe without corn syrup?

Corn syrup helps prevent crystallization, but you can try using honey or maple syrup as alternatives.

7. Is this recipe vegan?

No, this recipe contains butter, but you can substitute it with vegan butter if needed.

8. Can I add chocolate to the brittle?

Yes, after the brittle has cooled, you can dip it in melted chocolate for an extra indulgent treat.

9. Can I use a candy thermometer?

This recipe doesn’t require a thermometer, but if you’d prefer, you can use one to check for the hard crack stage (300°F).

10. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the ingredients, but be sure to use a larger bowl and adjust the microwave times accordingly.

Conclusion

Making peanut brittle has never been easier with this microwave method. In just 15 minutes, you can create a batch of crunchy, sweet, and salty peanut brittle that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike. Whether you’re making it as a treat for yourself or sharing it with friends and family, microwave peanut brittle is sure to be a hit!

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