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Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe


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3.9 from 80 reviews

  • Author: Mary & Susan
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 24 servings

Description

This delicious Microwave Peanut Brittle recipe offers a quick and easy way to make classic, crunchy peanut brittle without the fuss of stovetop candy-making. Using simple ingredients like sugar, corn syrup, roasted peanuts, and baking soda, this recipe uses the microwave to create a perfectly caramelized brittle with minimal effort, ideal for satisfying your sweet tooth or gifting during holidays.


Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 cup Sugar
  • 1/2 cup Light Corn Syrup
  • 1/4 cup Water
  • 1/8 teaspoon Salt
  • 1¾ cups Dry Roasted Peanuts
  • 1 teaspoon Baking Soda

Wet Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup Butter (cut into small cubes)


Instructions

  1. Prep the baking sheet: Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or spray it with cooking spray and set it aside to prepare for pouring the hot brittle mixture.
  2. Heat the syrup mixture: In a very large microwave-safe mixing bowl, combine sugar, light corn syrup, water, and salt with a wooden spoon coated in cooking spray. Microwave on high for 5 minutes, allowing the mixture to bubble and cook thoroughly. Using an extra-large bowl helps prevent the mixture from bubbling over.
  3. Add peanuts and butter: Stir the hot syrup mixture, then add the butter cubes and dry roasted peanuts. Return the bowl to the microwave and heat for an additional 4 to 5 minutes until the mixture turns a deep caramel color. Frequently check the temperature with a candy thermometer to ensure it reaches the hard crack stage (300º to 305ºF). If not at temperature, continue microwaving in 30-second intervals.
  4. Incorporate baking soda: Remove the bowl from the microwave and carefully stir in the baking soda. The mixture will foam up, creating the characteristic airy texture in the brittle.
  5. Pour and cool: Quickly pour the foamy mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it evenly if desired. Allow the peanut brittle to cool and set for 30 to 60 minutes. Once hardened, break it apart into pieces using your hands or gently with a meat mallet.

Notes

  • Use an extra-large microwave-safe bowl to prevent overflow as the mixture bubbles during cooking.
  • Check the temperature frequently to avoid undercooking or burning the brittle; the ideal hard crack stage is between 300º and 305ºF.
  • Be careful when handling hot caramel; use oven mitts to avoid burns.
  • For even pieces, pour and spread the mixture thinly on the baking sheet before cooling.
  • Store peanut brittle in an airtight container to maintain freshness and crunch.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Microwaving
  • Cuisine: American