Microwave Peanut Brittle(Easy)
A quick and crunchy microwave peanut brittle with rich caramel flavor and a buttery finish, perfect for satisfying sweet tooth cravings or sharing as a homemade gift.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Butter a cookie sheet.
- Put raw peanuts, syrup, white corn syrup, and salt in the microwave at full power for 5 minutes.
- Cook for 3 minutes, stir, then cook for 2 more minutes for a total of 5 minutes.
- Cook an additional 3 minutes for a total of 8 minutes of cooking time.
- Add butter and vanilla; cook for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Remove from microwave and quickly add baking soda; stir vigorously.
- Pour the mixture onto the prepared cookie sheet and spread out as thin as possible.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use unsalted raw peanuts to control the saltiness of your peanut brittle. You can substitute light corn syrup with honey or agave syrup if desired, though it may alter the flavor slightly. Make sure to stir the mixture well after adding the baking soda to ensure even distribution and a light texture. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of cinnamon for a warm twist.
Serving Suggestions
Peanut brittle makes a delightful snack on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with hot beverages like coffee or tea. You can serve it alongside a bowl of ice cream or crumbled over desserts like Helen'S Strawberry Sherbet for an added crunch. It’s a fantastic treat for holiday gatherings or as a homemade gift.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. To maintain its crispiness, avoid refrigerating it, as humidity can cause it to become chewy. If it does soften, you can briefly re-crisp it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds at a time, checking frequently.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Peanut Brittle(Easy) contains roughly 277 calories, with 1g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1767mg per serving (77% 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 roasted peanuts instead of raw?
Yes, you can use roasted peanuts, but keep in mind that they may alter the final flavor and texture of your brittle. If you choose roasted peanuts, reduce the cooking time slightly to avoid burning them.
What should I do if my brittle doesn't harden?
If your peanut brittle doesn't harden, it may need more cooking time. Return it to the microwave and cook in 30-second increments until it reaches the hard crack stage (300°F), then pour it onto the cookie sheet. Also, ensure that your thermometer is accurate for best results.
Can I add other ingredients to the brittle?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other nuts like almonds or cashews, or even chocolate chips after the mixture cools slightly. Just remember to balance the added ingredients to maintain the brittle's structure. For a fun variation, consider incorporating a sprinkle of sea salt on top.
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).