No-Mess Microwave Peanut Brittle
A quick and easy microwave peanut brittle with sweet, salty, and nutty flavors, perfect for satisfying cravings or sharing as a homemade treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spray a jelly roll pan with Baker's Joy or non-stick spray.
- In a one-quart glass casserole dish or bowl, combine sugar, raw peanuts, salt, and corn syrup.
- Microwave on Medium power for 4 minutes.
- Remove and stir the mixture.
- Microwave on Medium power for an additional 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the best texture for your peanut brittle, make sure to use raw peanuts for a fresher taste. If you prefer a different nut, try substituting with almonds or cashews. For a hint of flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg. Be cautious of overcooking the mixture; keep an eye on it in the microwave to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your no-mess microwave peanut brittle as a delightful snack on its own or package it as a homemade gift. It pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. For a fun treat, crumble it over vanilla ice cream or use it as a topping for desserts like brownies or banana splits. This candy also complements sweet dishes in American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its crunchiness. Avoid refrigeration, as moisture can make it chewy. If needed, break into smaller pieces for easy snacking. To re-crisp, place in a single layer on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 300°F for a few minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of No-Mess Microwave Peanut Brittle contains roughly 241 calories, with 1g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1732mg per serving (75% 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 peanuts?
Yes, you can use roasted peanuts; however, they may result in a slightly different texture and flavor. If using roasted, reduce the cooking time slightly to avoid overcooking and burning the peanuts.
What should I do if my peanut brittle is too soft?
If your peanut brittle turns out too soft, it may not have cooked long enough to reach the hard crack stage. Try reheating it in the microwave in short intervals while stirring, or place it back in the oven at a low temperature until it firms up.
How can I add flavor variations to my peanut brittle?
To enhance flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon, or a splash of maple extract for a unique twist. You can also incorporate chocolate by drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled brittle for a delicious combination.
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).