Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe

Have you ever had a sudden craving for something sweet and crunchy but didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen? Well, I’ve got just the treat for you: Microwave Peanut Brittle!

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Yes, you read that right—we’re making delicious, golden brown microwave peanut brittle. Trust me, it’s pretty amazing.

No candy thermometer, no stove top, and no fuss. It’s so easy that even my dog looked at me as if to say, “Are you sure you didn’t forget something?”

You might think making candy requires special equipment like a candy thermometer and hours standing over a hot stove.

But with this easy microwave peanut brittle recipe, you can skip the candy thermometer and the stove top altogether!

The microwave version simplifies the cooking process, making it accessible for everyone. Even the kids can help—just make sure they stay away from the hot sugar mixture.

This recipe uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, like granulated sugar (white sugar), light corn syrup, and dry roasted unsalted peanuts.

With just a few minutes of prep time and cooking, you’ll have a batch of Microwave Peanut Brittle that’s perfect for snacking or gifting!

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Jump to:

• WHY THIS RECIPE WORKS:
• INGREDIENTS NEEDED (SCROLL TO THE BOTTOM OF THIS POST FOR THE FULL RECIPE CARD):
• HOW TO MAKE MICROWAVE PEANUT BRITTLE:
• FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THIS RECIPE:
• WHY DO I USE BAKING SODA?
• WHAT KIND OF PEANUTS ARE THE BEST TO USE?
• ANY ADDITIONS?
• ANY SUBSTITUTIONS?
• HOW TO STORE:
• DANA’S TIPS AND TRICKS:
• Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe

1. Quick and Easy: No need for a candy thermometer or stove top; the microwave does all the work in just minutes.
2. Simple Ingredients: Uses basic ingredients like granulated sugar and light corn syrup, which you might already have.
3. Perfect Texture: Baking soda creates air bubbles in the hot sugar mixture, giving the brittle a light, crunchy texture that’s hard to resist.

• Granulated sugar
• Light corn syrup
• Dry roasted unsalted peanuts
• Fine sea salt
• Salted butter
• Vanilla extract
• Baking soda

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1. Cover a sheet tray with foil. Spray generously with cooking spray, and set aside. Spray a wooden spoon with cooking spray.
2. In a large microwave-safe bowl, add the sugar and corn syrup. Place in the microwave for 4 minutes, stirring halfway through with the wooden spoon.
3. Quickly add the peanuts and salt, and stir to combine. Microwave for 3 minutes.
4. Quickly add the butter and stir it in. Microwave for 2 minutes.
5. Working very fast, add the vanilla and baking soda. It will bubble up, so be careful. This is why we need a large bowl. 
6. Stir until just combined and immediately pour the mixture on the prepared sheet tray.
7. Spread it out in a thin, even layer. 
8. Let it sit at room temperature for 30-60 minutes until it has completely cooled and hardened. 
9. Break into pieces and serve.

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WHY DO I USE BAKING SODA?

Baking soda is crucial in this recipe because it causes the hot sugar mixture to foam up, creating tiny air bubbles.

These air bubbles are what give the brittle its light, crunchy texture.

Without baking soda, the brittle mixture would harden into a dense candy that’s hard to bite.

So, if you want that perfectly crisp texture, don’t skip the baking soda!

WHAT KIND OF PEANUTS ARE THE BEST TO USE?

Dry roasted unsalted peanuts are ideal for this recipe because they offer the best peanut flavor without extra salt.

However, you can also use raw peanuts, Spanish peanuts, or even cocktail peanuts.

Just be mindful of the salt content if you’re using salted nuts, as it can affect the final taste.

Using unsalted peanuts allows you to control the amount of salt in your brittle.

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ANY ADDITIONS?

Since it’s so easy to make a batch of this brittle, you can try all kinds of things.

Didn’t like the last batch? Make another!

• Chocolate Chips: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled brittle for a sweet treat.
• Sea Salt Flakes: Sprinkle on top for a sweet and salty combo.
• Chopped Almonds: Mix with the peanuts for extra crunch.
• Coconut Flakes: Add for a tropical twist.
• Dried Fruit: Like cranberries or raisins for a chewy texture.
• Spices: A pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper for extra flavor.
• Butterscotch Chips: Stir into the hot mixture.
• Pretzel Pieces: For a salty crunch.
• Orange Zest: Add to the sugar mixture for a citrus hint.

ANY SUBSTITUTIONS?

It’s always great to have a few options, just in case something doesn’t agree with your taste buds or diet.

• Granulated Sugar: Substitute with light brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
• Peanuts: Swap with cashews, almonds, or pecans.
• Salted Butter: Use unsalted butter and add a small amount of fine sea salt.
• Vanilla Extract: Try almond extract for a unique flavor.
• Fine Sea Salt: Use regular table salt or kosher salt.

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Refrigerator: Storing peanut brittle in the refrigerator is not recommended. The moisture can cause the brittle to soften and lose its crunchy texture.

The best way is to keep it at room temperature in an airtight container.

This keeps it crisp and delicious for up to six weeks.

Freezer: You can store the brittle in an air-tight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to eat it, let it thaw at room temperature.

Avoid opening the container while it’s still cold to prevent condensation, which can make the brittle sticky.

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Making Microwave Peanut Brittle is a fun and easy way to enjoy a classic candy recipe without the fuss.

It’s perfect for the holiday season, last-minute gifts, or any time you want a quick snack.

Just be prepared—it disappears fast! Even the first time I made it, I had to hide a few pieces for myself.

Happy microwaving!