Indulge your sweet tooth without breaking a sweat with this quick and easy Microwave Peanut Brittle recipe! Perfectly crunchy and irresistibly sweet, this homemade treat uses simple pantry staples like granulated sugar, unsalted peanuts, and light corn syrup, all coming together in under 15 minutes. The microwave does all the heavy lifting, caramelizing the sugar mixture to golden perfection before buttery vanilla notes and a touch of baking soda create that signature airy, brittle texture. No candy thermometer is neededβjust a parchment-lined baking sheet and a love for classic, nutty confections. Whether youβre prepping for the holidays or craving an effortless snack, this DIY peanut brittle will become your go-to treat thatβs ideal for gifting or enjoying yourself!
Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat; set aside.
In a large microwave-safe glass bowl, combine the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and salt. Stir until well mixed.
Microwave the sugar mixture on high for 4 minutes. Carefully remove the bowl from the microwave (it will be very hot).
Stir in the unsalted peanuts, ensuring they are fully coated in the hot syrup.
Microwave the mixture on high for an additional 3 to 4 minutes, or until the mixture turns a golden brown caramel color.
Remove the bowl from the microwave and immediately stir in the unsalted butter and vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined.
Quickly stir in the baking soda. The mixture will foam up as the baking soda reacts with the caramel. Stir until evenly distributed.
Immediately pour the peanut brittle mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Using a spatula, spread it out into an even layer.
Allow the peanut brittle to cool completely at room temperature, about 30 minutes.
Once cooled and hardened, break the brittle into pieces and serve or store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
Calories |
2114 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 89.8 g | 115% | |
| Saturated Fat | 18.1 g | 90% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 31 mg | 10% | |
| Sodium | 1601 mg | 70% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 314.9 g | 115% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 13.3 g | 48% | |
| Total Sugars | 296.6 g | ||
| Protein | 40.7 g | 81% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 98 mg | 8% | |
| Iron | 3.3 mg | 18% | |
| Potassium | 1123 mg | 24% | |
*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.