Indulge your sweet tooth with this quick and easy Microwave Nut Brittle recipe, a time-saving treat perfect for the holidays or anytime you need a crunchy, caramelized snack. Made with just six pantry-friendly ingredients like granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and raw peanuts—or your choice of nuts—this recipe comes together in under 15 minutes, all with the convenience of your microwave. The magic happens when a touch of vanilla extract adds warmth and depth, while baking soda creates the signature airy texture of brittle. Whether served as a homemade gift or a simple dessert, these golden shards of nutty sweetness are irresistibly crisp and delicious. Plus, with minimal cleanup and a simple prep process, this recipe is a must-try for candy-making beginners and seasoned pros alike.
Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with non-stick cooking spray. Set aside.
In a large microwave-safe glass bowl, combine the granulated sugar and light corn syrup. Stir the mixture thoroughly to blend.
Microwave the sugar and corn syrup mixture on high for 4 minutes. Keep an eye on it to ensure it does not boil over.
Remove the bowl from the microwave and immediately stir in the unsalted butter and raw peanuts (or your chosen nuts). Mix quickly to ensure the ingredients are evenly coated.
Return the bowl to the microwave and heat on high for another 3-4 minutes. The mixture should turn a light golden brown, indicating it is caramelizing. Be cautious, as the bowl and mixture will be extremely hot.
Carefully remove the bowl from the microwave and immediately stir in the vanilla extract and baking soda. The mixture will bubble and foam slightly—stir quickly but carefully to integrate the ingredients.
Pour the hot mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it out as thinly as possible using a heatproof spatula or the back of a spoon.
Allow the brittle to cool completely on the baking sheet, which will take about 30 minutes. Once cool, break it into bite-sized pieces.
Store the nut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Calories |
2168 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 97.5 g | 125% | |
| Saturated Fat | 23.4 g | 117% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 62 mg | 21% | |
| Sodium | 1307 mg | 57% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 313.4 g | 114% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 12.7 g | 45% | |
| Total Sugars | 296.4 g | ||
| Protein | 38.7 g | 77% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 144 mg | 11% | |
| Iron | 6.8 mg | 38% | |
| Potassium | 1068 mg | 23% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.