Microwave Peanut Brittle

If you’re craving a sweet, crunchy treat but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, this Microwave Peanut Brittle is the perfect solution! Ready in just 15 minutes, this simple recipe offers all the satisfying flavors of traditional peanut brittle, but with a fraction of the effort. The microwave method ensures a quick and easy process while delivering the perfect balance of crispy texture and nutty flavor. With only a handful of ingredients—sugar, corn syrup, peanuts, butter, and vanilla—this treat is as straightforward as it is delicious. Whether you’re making it for a holiday gift, a quick snack, or a sweet addition to a dessert table, this peanut brittle will impress everyone who tastes it. The best part? No candy thermometer is required! The magic happens in your microwave, making this treat an accessible option even for beginners in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

This microwave version of peanut brittle is ready in just 15 minutes, making it a perfect option when you need a fast, homemade treat.

2. No Candy Thermometer Required

Unlike traditional peanut brittle recipes, this one doesn’t require a candy thermometer, which means there’s less guesswork and fewer tools to clean up afterward.

3. Simple Ingredients

With just a few pantry staples like sugar, corn syrup, and peanuts, you can whip up this brittle without needing special ingredients or equipment.

4. Perfect Crunch and Flavor

The microwave method delivers a deliciously crunchy texture, while the peanuts add a savory richness to the sweet brittle, balancing the flavor perfectly.

5. Great for Gifting

This easy-to-make peanut brittle is an excellent homemade gift idea for the holidays or any special occasion. Just break it into pieces and wrap it up for a thoughtful and tasty gift.

Ingredients

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

Variations

• Add Other Nuts: You can substitute or mix in other nuts such as cashews, almonds, or walnuts for a different flavor profile.
• Salted Peanuts: If you prefer a salty-sweet combination, you can use salted peanuts instead of unsalted for an extra burst of flavor.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Once the brittle has cooled, drizzle it with melted chocolate for a decadent twist.
• Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cayenne pepper to the sugar mixture for a spiced version of peanut brittle.
• Maple Syrup: Substitute maple syrup for light corn syrup to give the brittle a more complex, maple-infused flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sugar Mixture

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the white sugar and light corn syrup. Stir them together until fully mixed.

Step 2: Microwave the Sugar Mixture

Place the bowl in the microwave and microwave on high for 4 minutes. This allows the sugar to dissolve and the mixture to begin heating.

Step 3: Add Peanuts

Carefully remove the bowl from the microwave and stir in the dry roasted peanuts. Mix until the peanuts are well coated with the sugar mixture.

Step 4: Microwave Again

Return the bowl to the microwave and cook on high for an additional 3 1/2 minutes, keeping an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t bubble over.

Step 5: Stir in Butter and Vanilla

After the second microwave session, stir in the butter and vanilla extract. Microwave for another 1 1/2 minutes, allowing the butter to melt and the mixture to become smooth.

Step 6: Add Baking Soda

Remove the bowl from the microwave, and quickly stir in the baking soda. The mixture will bubble up and become light and foamy. Stir until everything is well combined.

Step 7: Pour and Cool

Immediately pour the mixture onto a greased baking sheet. Spread it out evenly to ensure it cools evenly. Let the brittle cool completely at room temperature.

Step 8: Break Into Pieces

Once cooled, break the brittle into pieces of your desired size and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Stir Gently: When adding the baking soda, be sure to stir gently, as the mixture will foam up quickly and might spill over if handled too roughly.
• Use a Large Microwave-Safe Bowl: The sugar mixture expands while cooking, so make sure to use a large bowl to prevent overflow.
• Watch the Time: Microwave times may vary depending on your appliance, so keep a close eye on the mixture to avoid burning.
• Cooling: Make sure the brittle is fully cooled before breaking it into pieces to ensure it holds its shape.
• Even Layering: Spread the brittle out evenly on the baking sheet to ensure a consistent texture throughout.

How to Serve

Microwave peanut brittle is great on its own as a snack or dessert. It’s also perfect for adding to gift baskets or holiday treat boxes. You can serve it alongside other sweet treats or use it as a topping for ice cream or yogurt for a crunchy, sweet contrast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store the cooled peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Be sure to keep it in a dry, cool place to maintain its crisp texture.

Freezing

While peanut brittle can technically be frozen, the texture may change once thawed. For the best texture, it’s recommended to store it at room temperature.

Reheating

If your peanut brittle becomes too soft or sticky over time, you can re-crisp it by placing it on a baking sheet in a 300°F oven for 5-10 minutes. Allow it to cool completely before breaking it into pieces again.

FAQs

1. Can I use salted peanuts instead of unsalted?

Yes, salted peanuts will work well in this recipe and will add a nice salty contrast to the sweetness of the brittle.

2. Can I use a candy thermometer?

While it’s not necessary, you can use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature of the sugar mixture. The temperature should reach about 300°F (the hard crack stage).

3. Can I make this peanut brittle in the oven?

This recipe is specifically designed for the microwave. If you prefer an oven method, you’d need to adjust the cooking time and temperatures, but the microwave method is faster and easier.

4. Can I add chocolate to the brittle?

Yes, you can drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled brittle for an extra touch of indulgence.

5. Can I make this recipe without corn syrup?

Corn syrup helps achieve the right texture and prevents the brittle from crystallizing. If you don’t have corn syrup, you can substitute with honey or maple syrup, though the flavor and texture may vary slightly.

6. How do I know when the brittle is done?

When you add the baking soda and the mixture becomes light and foamy, it’s a good sign the brittle is ready to pour onto the baking sheet.

7. Can I use other nuts besides peanuts?

Yes, you can substitute or mix in other nuts like almonds, cashews, or pecans for a different flavor.

8. How can I make the brittle more flavorful?

Try adding a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla extract to the sugar mixture to boost the flavor.

9. How do I prevent the brittle from sticking to the baking sheet?

Grease the baking sheet well with butter or line it with parchment paper to prevent the brittle from sticking.

10. Can I make this without butter?

While butter adds richness, you can omit it if you prefer, though the brittle may have a slightly different texture.

Conclusion

Microwave Peanut Brittle is a quick, easy, and delicious treat that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth in no time. With minimal ingredients and microwave magic, you can enjoy this crunchy, nutty snack without the hassle of traditional candy-making. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion, gifting it to a friend, or just enjoying it as a homemade snack, this peanut brittle will undoubtedly become a favorite in your kitchen.

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