Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe

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If you are craving a sweet and crunchy treat that’s quick to make and delightfully addictive, this Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe is exactly what you need. With only a handful of pantry staples and no stovetop required, you’ll have a gleaming batch of crispy peanut brittle in just 15 minutes. The perfect crunch combined with the buttery, caramelized sugar and salty roasted peanuts makes this snack impossible to resist. Whether you’re making it for a festive occasion or a cozy night in, this Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe will become your new go-to homemade candy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients may be simple, but each plays an essential role in crafting the perfect texture, sweetness, and rich flavor of your peanut brittle. From the smooth, glossy syrup base to the crunchy peanuts, every element counts.

• 1 cup sugar: The foundation of caramelized sweetness that gives brittle its signature crunch and flavor.
• 1/2 cup white corn syrup (Karo): Helps prevent the sugar from crystallizing and keeps the brittle smooth and delicious.
• 1 cup roasted, salted peanuts: The star of the show, providing a salty crunch and nutty goodness that balances the sweetness.
• 1 tsp butter: Adds richness and helps the brittle set with a buttery undertone.
• 1 tsp vanilla: Infuses a warm, comforting aroma and depth of flavor to the brittle.
• 1 tsp baking soda: Creates the classic airy, light texture by causing the mixture to foam and expand.

How to Make Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe

Step 1: Mix Sugar and Corn Syrup

Begin by combining the sugar and corn syrup in a microwave-safe casserole dish. Stir well to blend them into a smooth mixture. This step ensures the sugar dissolves evenly as it heats, which is key to achieving a perfect caramel base without grainy spots.

Step 2: Microwave the Sugar Mixture

Place the dish in the microwave and cook on high for 4 minutes. This initial heating phase softens the sugar and syrup, starting the caramelization process and preparing it to blend perfectly with the peanuts.

Step 3: Stir in the Peanuts

Carefully remove the dish and stir in the roasted, salted peanuts. This distributes nuts evenly so every bite captures that delightful salty and nutty crunch alongside the sweet caramel.

Step 4: Continue Microwaving

Return the dish to the microwave and cook on high for another 3 to 5 minutes. Cook until the mixture turns a light golden brown, signaling that the sugar has thoroughly caramelized and the nuts have toasted slightly within the candy.

Step 5: Add Butter and Vanilla

Remove from the microwave again, then stir in the butter and vanilla. Mixing these in now enhances the flavor depth and adds a luscious richness to the brittle’s texture.

Step 6: Extra Microwaving Time

Place the dish back in the microwave for 1 to 2 more minutes on high. This final heating helps everything meld together to an ideal consistency before the baking soda works its magic.

Step 7: Add Baking Soda and Stir

Quickly stir in the baking soda. The mixture will foam up and become lighter in color as the baking soda reacts with the hot sugar syrup, creating that classic brittle texture—airy yet crisp and easy to break.

Step 8: Pour and Cool

Immediately pour the foamy mixture onto a lightly greased cookie sheet or parchment paper. Spread it evenly and let it cool completely; this step is crucial for the brittle to set into its gloriously hard and crunchy form.

Step 9: Break into Pieces

Once fully cooled, break the sheet into bite-sized pieces to enjoy your homemade peanut brittle. Each shard offers the perfect balance of sweet caramel and crunchy peanuts, all thanks to this simple Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe.

How to Serve Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe

Garnishes

Although peanut brittle is incredible on its own, consider sprinkling a pinch of flaky sea salt over the top right after spreading to enhance the salty-sweet contrast. For a festive touch, you can also sprinkle finely chopped dark chocolate or a dusting of cinnamon for warmth.

Side Dishes

Peanut brittle pairs wonderfully with ice cream, especially vanilla or butter pecan, where the brittle’s crunch adds amazing texture. It also works as a sweet snack alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a creamy hot chocolate for cozy indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

For gifting or parties, place peanut brittle pieces in decorative jars, cellophane bags tied with ribbons, or layered in a gift tin. You can even chop the brittle and use it as a topping on cakes, cupcakes, or yogurt parfaits to add a surprise crunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature. Properly sealed, it can stay crisp and tasty for up to two weeks, making it a perfect make-ahead treat for anytime cravings.

Freezing

If you want to keep your peanut brittle fresh for a longer period, freezing is an option. Wrap pieces tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag or container. When well wrapped, it can last for several months without losing its crunch.

Reheating

Reheating isn’t typically necessary for brittle since it’s best enjoyed crisp and cold. However, if you want to soften it slightly to use as a topping or mix-in, a few seconds in a warm place or brief microwave bursts on low power will help without melting it completely.

FAQs

Can I use raw peanuts instead of roasted salted peanuts?

It’s best to use roasted, salted peanuts since they provide that essential crunch and balanced saltiness. Raw peanuts won’t toast properly during microwaving and may result in a less flavorful brittle.

What if I don’t have corn syrup? Is there a substitute?

Corn syrup helps prevent sugar crystallization, making the brittle smooth and shiny. You can substitute with light honey or golden syrup, but the texture might be slightly different, and you’ll want to watch the cooking time closely.

Why does the baking soda make the brittle foam?

Baking soda reacts with the acidic components in the caramel mixture, releasing carbon dioxide bubbles. This reaction creates air pockets that lighten the brittle’s texture, resulting in that classic crisp and slightly airy quality.

How can I tell when the microwave cooking time is right?

The key indicator is the color change to a light brown and a glossy appearance in the sugar mixture. Microwaves vary, so check frequently during the 3 to 5 minute stage to avoid burning, stirring carefully to monitor progress.

Can I substitute butter with margarine or oil?

Butter adds flavor and richness that margarine or oils can’t fully replicate. If you need a substitute, use a real butter substitute, but avoid oils since they can affect the texture and make the brittle greasy.

Final Thoughts

This Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe is a little magic in your kitchen, turning a few humble ingredients into a crunchy, addictive candy in minutes. Its simplicity and speedy preparation make it a perfect go-to treat for any occasion, and once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without homemade peanut brittle ready at your fingertips. Grab your ingredients, pop it in the microwave, and prepare for sweet, nutty joy!

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