Microwave 10 Minute Peanut Brittle
A quick and crunchy homemade peanut brittle with sweet caramelized sugar and salty peanuts, perfect for satisfying candy cravings or sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, corn syrup, and salt in a 2-quart mixing bowl. Microwave on High for 5 minutes.
- Stir in salted peanuts.
- Microwave for an additional 2 to 5 minutes, stirring after the 2nd and 4th minute until the syrup and peanuts are lightly browned.
- Stir in butter, vanilla, and baking soda until the mixture is light and foamy.
- Spread the mixture to a 1/4-inch thickness on a large, well-buttered cookie sheet (work quickly).
- Allow to cool, then break apart into pieces.
- For very thin peanut brittle, cool on the cookie sheet for 3 to 5 minutes, then lift from the sheet and pull or stretch the mixture to the desired thinness.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your mixing bowl is large enough to accommodate the mixture expanding while cooking. You can substitute light corn syrup with golden syrup or honey, although the flavor may slightly vary. If you prefer a nut-free version, you can use sunflower seeds instead of peanuts. Be cautious with the microwave timing to prevent burning the sugar.
Serving Suggestions
Peanut brittle makes a delightful snack on its own, but you can also pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. For an exciting twist, consider serving it alongside Grilled P B & J for a nostalgic flavor combination. This treat can also be crumbled over yogurt or used as a topping for desserts.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid refrigerating, as moisture can make it sticky. If it does become soft, you can re-crisp it in a low oven for a few minutes. This treat is perfect for sharing or enjoying alongside a cup of coffee or tea.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave 10 Minute Peanut Brittle contains roughly 434 calories, with 1g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 559mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
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 use unsalted peanuts instead of salted?
Yes, you can use unsalted peanuts if you prefer less salt. Just keep in mind that the overall flavor will be slightly different. You may want to add a pinch more salt to the mixture to enhance the taste.
What can I do if my peanut brittle is too hard?
If your peanut brittle turns out too hard, try microwaving it for a few seconds to soften it slightly before breaking it into pieces. Alternatively, you can store it in a warm, humid area for a short time to help it become less brittle.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, simply substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, such as coconut oil or vegan butter. Ensure that the peanuts you use are also free from any animal-derived ingredients.
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).