Microwave Peanut Butter Brittle
A quick and crunchy microwave peanut butter brittle with rich caramel flavor and nutty crunch, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings or sharing with friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, corn syrup, peanuts, and salt in a deep 3-quart casserole; mix well.
- Microwave at HIGH for 8 1/2 minutes or until light brown.
- Add butter and vanilla, mixing well.
- Microwave for 1 minute or until mixture reaches hard crack stage (300 degrees).
- Stir in soda; pour onto a buttered cookie sheet, spreading thinly.
- Let cool.
- Break into pieces.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using roasted peanuts instead of raw. If you're in a pinch for corn syrup, you can substitute with honey, but the flavor will change slightly. Monitor the microwave closely during cooking since wattages vary, and adjust the time as necessary to avoid burning. To enhance the taste, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg.
Serving Suggestions
Peanut butter brittle makes a delightful snack on its own, but it can also be crumbled over ice cream for an added crunch. Pair it with a cup of hot chocolate for a cozy treat or serve it alongside a selection of homemade candies like Chocolate Caramel Squares for a festive dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover peanut butter brittle in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its crunchiness. Avoid refrigeration as moisture can cause the brittle to become chewy. If you want to enjoy it warm again, microwave for a few seconds to soften slightly before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Peanut Butter Brittle contains roughly 247 calories, with 0g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 2g fat.
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 different nuts in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute raw peanuts with other nuts such as almonds, cashews, or walnuts. Just keep in mind that each nut has a different oil content and may affect the flavor and texture of the brittle.
How do I know when the mixture has reached the hard crack stage?
To check for the hard crack stage, use a candy thermometer and ensure the mixture reaches 300 degrees Fahrenheit. If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small amount of the mixture into cold water; it should form hard, brittle threads when ready.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Peanut butter brittle can be made a few days in advance. Just ensure it’s stored properly in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It's a great treat to include in holiday gift baskets or to enjoy during movie nights.
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).