- Let me share my absolute favorite candy hack microwave peanut brittle! I discovered this recipe during one crazy holiday season when I needed quick homemade gifts. Now it's my go to sweet treat that tastes just like Grandma's but takes a fraction of the time. Just 6 ingredients 20 minutes and you've got perfectly crispy buttery brittle!
Why This Recipe Is Magic
- This isn't just any peanut brittle it's the easiest version you'll ever make! No candy thermometers no standing over a hot stove just your microwave and a few simple ingredients. Every time I share this recipe people can't believe it's not made the traditional way. Plus it makes the perfect holiday gift that keeps for weeks.
Grab These Ingredients
- Peanuts: I use roasted and salted for the best flavor.
- Sugar: Plain old granulated works perfectly here.
- Butter: Makes everything better trust me!
- Corn Syrup: The secret to smooth perfect brittle.
- Baking Soda: Creates that classic brittle texture.
- Vanilla: Just a splash for extra yum.
Let's Make Some Magic
- Start The Sweet Stuff
- Mix your sugar and corn syrup in a big microwave safe bowl. Give it four minutes on high get ready for some candy making magic!
- Add Some Crunch
- Stir in those peanuts then back in the microwave. We're looking for a light brown color about 3 4 minutes more.
- Butter Makes It Better
- Add your butter and vanilla one more minute in the microwave then comes the fun part!
- The Big Bubble
- Quick stir in that baking soda and watch it puff up like a science experiment. This is what makes our brittle perfectly crispy.
- Spread The Love
- Pour it all onto your lined baking sheet work fast it sets up quick! Let it cool for an hour then break it into pieces.
My Best Tips
- Keep an eye on your microwave times they're all different. Have everything ready before you start once that baking soda goes in you need to move fast! And don't skip the parchment paper or silicone mat cleanup will be a nightmare trust me on this one.
Keep It Fresh
- Your brittle will stay perfect for up to six weeks in an airtight container. I love packing it in pretty holiday tins with wax paper between layers. Just keep it away from heat and moisture and it'll be ready whenever your sweet tooth strikes!
Serve It Up
- This brittle is perfect with afternoon coffee or wrapped up as gifts. Sometimes I crush it over ice cream or chop it up for cookie toppings. Once you see how easy it is to make you'll never buy store bought again!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why is my brittle chewy?
Mixture needs to reach high enough temperature to harden properly.
- Can I use different nuts?
Yes, try hazelnuts, pecans, or almonds.
- How long does it keep?
Up to 6 weeks in airtight container at room temperature.
- Why add baking soda?
Creates tiny bubbles for better texture.
- Can timing vary?
Yes, watch carefully as microwave wattages differ.