Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe – Quick & Easy
If you’ve ever wanted to whip up a homemade candy but felt intimidated by candy thermometers and tricky stovetop steps, this microwave peanut brittle is about to be your new favorite treat. It’s crunchy, buttery, and sweet with just the right touch of roasted peanuts in every bite. The best part? You don’t need any fancy equipment just your microwave, a safe dish, and a handful of pantry staples.
Whether you’re making edible gifts for the holidays, a sweet snack to keep on hand, or a quick dessert to share with friends, this recipe is a lifesaver. It comes together in minutes and tastes just as good (if not better) than the stovetop version. Let’s break it down step by step so you can enjoy this nostalgic candy with zero stress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – Ready in under 15 minutes.
- No Candy Thermometer Needed – The microwave does the hard work for you.
- Perfect for Gifting – A holiday favorite wrapped in cellophane or tins.
- Budget-Friendly – Simple pantry ingredients.
- Crunchy & Addictive – Sweet caramel with roasted peanut goodness.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Microwave-safe 2-quart glass bowl
- Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper (or greased)
- Oven mitts (the bowl gets hot!)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep Your Pan
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter. Have everything ready because once the brittle is cooked, you’ll need to spread it quickly before it hardens.
2. Mix Sugar & Corn Syrup
In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine granulated sugar and light corn syrup. Stir until blended. Microwave on high for about 4 minutes until the mixture is bubbling. Tip: Every microwave cooks a little differently, so keep an eye on it.
3. Add the Peanuts
Stir in the roasted peanuts and return the bowl to the microwave. Heat for another 2–3 minutes until the syrup turns a light golden brown. This is where that nutty caramel flavor builds.
4. Stir in Butter & Vanilla
Carefully remove the bowl (it will be very hot). Stir in butter and vanilla extract. Microwave for another 1 minute.
5. Finish with Baking Soda
Quickly stir in baking soda—the mixture will foam up and get lighter in color. This step makes the brittle airy and easier to bite.
6. Spread & Cool
Immediately pour the hot mixture onto your prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread it thin and even. Let it cool completely (about 30 minutes), then break it into bite-sized pieces.
Storage & Serving Tips
- Storage: Keep brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezing: You can freeze it, but it may lose some crunch. Store tightly wrapped to prevent moisture.
- Serving Ideas: Enjoy as a snack, pack into gift bags, or crush over ice cream for a fun topping.
More recipes:-
Peanut Butter Cornflake Cookies
FAQs
Can I use honey instead of corn syrup?
Not recommended, as honey may burn in the microwave and won’t set the same way.
What’s the best pan to spread it on?
A metal baking sheet lined with parchment works best. Avoid glass dishes since they hold heat longer.
Can I double this recipe?
It’s better to make in separate batches so the brittle spreads evenly before hardening.
Why did my brittle turn chewy instead of crunchy?
It was likely undercooked. Microwaves vary—add 30 seconds more cooking time next round.
How do I clean the bowl afterward?
Soak in hot water; the hardened sugar will melt away easily.
