Microwave Peanut Brittle

Take the work out of making brittle candy with this easy microwave recipe. This easy peanut brittle is super simple and can be made in 30 minutes or less.

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What is peanut brittle?

Peanut brittle is a delicious hard caramel-like candy filled with chunks of peanuts. It is the perfect balance of sweet and salty.

It is called “brittle” because the candy itself is very brittle. It is made in a sheet and easily broken into pieces because of the air pockets produced by the baking soda.

This delicious treat is sometimes called Christmas candy because it makes a wonderful gift for the holidays.

Microwave peanut brittle ingredients

You will only need 6 simple ingredients for this easy microwave peanut brittle. You probably have all 6 ingredients already, so you should be good to go! However, just in case, here’s a list:

• Sugar
• Light corn syrup
• Vanilla extract
• Peanuts or your favorite nuts
• Butter
• Baking soda

Why does peanut brittle have baking soda and what does it do?

Baking soda is very important to creating the perfect peanut brittle. The baking soda is what creates the bubbly carbon dioxide effect that gives the brittle the best crunch and crack.

You can make brittle without it, but you will find it hard to get the right consistency. Without baking soda, the brittle will not crack as easily and may be too hard.

What do you need to make peanut brittle?

Surprisingly enough, you will not need a candy thermometer for this recipe. Here’s the equipment you’ll need:

• Measuring cups and spoons
• Microwave safe bowl
• Spatula
• Nonstick cooking spray
• Cookie sheet

That is it! Nothing too crazy, just ordinary kitchen supplies.

How to make peanut brittle in a microwave

Making peanut brittle can be a family tradition. It’s the perfect treat for any time of year. This quick and easy microwave peanut brittle recipe proves candy making doesn’t have to be difficult.

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine sugar and corn syrup until all of the sugar is wet. Microwave on high for 4 minutes.

2. Add vanilla, nuts, and butter. Microwave for an additional 4 minutes on high.

3. Quickly stir in baking soda and pour the mixture on a greased cookie sheet. Being quick is imperative.
4. After it has cooled and hardened, break it into pieces.

Recipe notes and substitutions

The name of the game is quickness for this recipe. You need to move fast with all of the steps so the brittle doesn’t harden before you spread it out on the baking sheet.

You can substitute coconut sugar for the sugar.

Want to make peanut brittle without corn syrup? You can substitute it with golden syrup or maple syrup.

Why would peanut brittle not harden?

If your brittle is not hardening properly, chances are that the mixture did not heat up enough to reach the hard crack stage.

Once it reaches the hard crack stage the brittle will be more dry and less sticky, allowing it to harden properly.

Why did my brittle turn out chewy?

This again relates to the heating process. If the brittle did not heat up enough to reach the hard crack stage, then it will still be soft, sticky, and chewy when it cools down.

While the flavor may still be good, brittle should not be chewy; it should be nice and crisp. So when you remake the brittle, make sure the consistency is more dry and stringy before you let it cool.

How to store peanut brittle

Wondering how do you store peanut brittle? It’s simple:

After you have broken the peanut brittle into pieces, store it in an airtight glass or plastic container. Then place it in a cool, dark area for best results.

How long does peanut brittle last?

One of the amazing things about this peanut brittle recipe is the longevity of the brittle. As long as you store it properly, this brittle can last for up to 2 months and retain its great flavor and crispy texture. 

I think this is why brittle is popular to make around the holidays. You can make it ahead of time, give it as a gift, and it will last a while.

What is your favorite candy to make? Let us know in the comments below. When you make this easy recipe, share your creations by tagging us on Instagram. And don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter so you never miss a copycat recipe.

I hope you give this brittle recipe a try. It is a great microwave recipe. This is a super-easy way to make a nut brittle without having to stand at the stove and spend your afternoon stirring away.

More candy recipes for the holidays

• Almond Brittle
• Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls
• Homemade Peppermint Bark
• Homemade Peppermint Patties
• Rum Balls with Vanilla Wafers
• Rocky Road Candy
• Spiced Pecans

Favorite Christmas desserts and treats

• Ambrosia Cake
• Bacardi Rum Cake
• Gingerbread Cake
• Gooey Butter Cake
• Mississippi Mud Cake
• Red Velvet Cheesecake Cake

Check out more of my easy candy recipes and the best Christmas recipes here on CopyKat

Thanks to perrylou for sharing this candy recipe.