9-Minute Peanut Brittle(Microwave)
A quick and crunchy peanut brittle with rich caramel flavor and crisp texture, perfect for sweet snack lovers and gift-giving during holidays.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 2-quart microwave-safe bowl, combine sugar and syrup. Microwave on High for 4 minutes.
- Add peanuts and cook 4 to 5 minutes, until light brown.
- Add butter and vanilla extract.
- Blend and microwave again for 30 seconds on High.
- Add baking soda and gently stir until well mixed.
- Pour onto a buttered cookie sheet (do not scrape the bowl).
- Cool for 1/2 hour.
- Break into pieces to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a perfectly textured peanut brittle, ensure your microwave's wattage is appropriate for the cooking times. If your microwave is lower wattage, you may need to adjust the cooking time. You can substitute honey for corn syrup for a different flavor or use mixed nuts instead of peanuts for variety. Be cautious when adding baking soda, as it causes the mixture to bubble rapidly.
Serving Suggestions
Peanut brittle makes a delightful snack on its own, but you can also serve it alongside a scoop of ice cream for a delicious dessert. It pairs beautifully with Crisp Lemon Cookies for a sweet treat platter. Consider packaging pieces in decorative bags as gifts for friends and family during the holidays.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its crispness. Avoid refrigerating, as moisture can make it chewy. If you want to reheat, place it in a microwave for a few seconds to soften slightly before serving, but it's best enjoyed fresh.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 9-Minute Peanut Brittle(Microwave) contains roughly 327 calories, with 1g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this peanut brittle without a microwave?
Yes, you can make peanut brittle on the stovetop. Combine sugar and corn syrup in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until dissolved. Continue cooking until it reaches a light brown color, then add peanuts and follow the remaining steps as in the microwave recipe. Just be sure to monitor the temperature closely to avoid burning.
Why did my peanut brittle turn out chewy?
Chewy peanut brittle can result from not cooking the sugar mixture long enough or from humidity in the air. To achieve the right texture, ensure you cook the mixture until it reaches a hard crack stage, around 300°F (149°C). Also, store it in a cool, dry place to maintain crunchiness.
Can I add other flavors or ingredients to the brittle?
Absolutely! Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth, or incorporate chocolate chips after cooking for a chocolatey twist. You can also try adding dried fruit or seeds for a unique variation. Just be mindful of the total volume to maintain the right consistency.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).