Quick & Easy Microwave Peanut Brittle

Now your favorite snack is made quickly & easily. It's our family’s favorite recipe for Microwave Peanut Brittle. No more cooking & stirring on the stove, just pop it in the microwave! This quick and easy recipe cuts the time in half and comes out perfect every time! Makes a great homemade holiday gift too!

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Homemade Christmas Candy and Treats

Making homemade Christmas candy is an important part of celebrating the holiday season in my family. It’s not only a favorite of my kids and grandkids, whose eyes light up whenever they see it, but the act of gifting these handmade confections adds a personal touch to the season, reminding us that the spirit of Christmas is about sharing warmth and love, one sweet treat at a time.

Traditional favorites like Caramel Fudge, Christmas Crack with Pretzels, and Microwave Chocolate Covered Toffee tempt everyone with their rich flavors and sweet aromas. These homemade Christmas treats not only satisfy our sweet tooth but also bring to mind cherished memories of childhood Christmases spent with loved ones.

Why This is the Best Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe

This recipe for microwave peanut brittle is tried and true. I have been making this recipe for over 30 years and it has become a holiday favorite with both my family and close friends. I usually make between 10 and 20 pounds for Christmas and give it away as gifts and even send it to my kids if they aren't coming in for the holidays.

Crunchy, salty sweetness that is hard to beat!

Nothing beats a candy that's quick and easy to make. This 10-minute microwave peanut brittle will have you in and out of the kitchen in no time.

What is Peanut Brittle?

Peanut brittle is a type of confection that consists of hard, transparent candy embedded with peanuts. It is often thin and has a crisp, breakable texture. When you bite into it, you first experience the hard, sugary exterior, followed by the crunchy peanuts. The combination of sweet and salty, hard and crunchy, creates a delightful taste experience.

The ingredients of peanut brittle typically consist of peanuts (raw or roasted), sugar, corn syrup, butter, water, and baking soda.

The process for making old fashioned peanut brittle generally involves cooking sugar, corn syrup, and water until it caramelizes, then quickly stirring in the butter, baking soda, and peanuts before spreading the mixture out to cool and harden.

Peanut Brittle History and Origin

The precise origin of peanut brittle is a bit elusive, but it's believed to have been around for centuries. Many cultures have their own versions of nut-infused candies.

The story most often told in the U.S. is that peanut brittle was an accidental discovery. As with many such tales, the specifics vary, but one popular version is that a Southern woman was trying to make taffy and mistakenly added baking soda instead of cream of tartar. The result was the first batch of what we recognize today as peanut brittle.

Who invented peanut brittle?

Due to the aforementioned folkloric tales and the existence of nut candies across cultures, it's hard to pinpoint one particular individual as the inventor. Over time, various recipes and techniques evolved, giving us the version we enjoy today.

National Peanut Brittle Day

National Peanut Brittle Day is celebrated every year on January 26th. It's a day dedicated to appreciating this delicious candy and its rich history. Whether it's made at home, purchased from a local store, or enjoyed at a specialty candy shop, peanut brittle lovers across the nation take this day to indulge in their favorite treat. It's a great excuse (as if you needed one!) to enjoy a piece of peanut brittle and perhaps even try making some yourself.

Important Notes for Making Microwave Peanut Brittle

Mind the Microwave Wattage

This is a microwave peanut brittle recipe for 1000 watt microwave.

• Microwave wattage plays a pivotal role in determining the cooking time. Microwaves ranging from 1000 to 1650 watts can vary the time it takes; with higher wattages making the process faster.
• Aim for a temperature range of 300°F to 310°F, which achieves the perfect hard crack stage. A temperature below this range results in a brittle that's too sticky and chewy. Exceeding it risks burning your brittle.

Beware of Humidity

• High humidity or rainy weather can be the culprit behind sticky and chewy brittle.
• The sugar in the brittle is hygroscopic, meaning it attracts moisture from the air. This can make your brittle sticky. Combat this by storing your finished brittle in an airtight container situated in a cool, dry spot.

Trust in a Candy Thermometer

• A digital thermometer isn't just an accessory; it's essential for ensuring your peanut brittle is consistently perfect.

Spreading Dictates Texture

• The manner in which you spread your brittle affects its texture. If you aim for a less airy and more compact brittle, spread it thinly. However, if you desire a fluffier and airier texture, just pour the mixture onto your baking sheet and limit your spreading.

Microwave Brittle Ingredients

• White Granulated Sugar
• Light Corn Syrup
• Regular Roasted or Dry Roasted Peanuts
• Butter
• Vanilla Extract
• Baking Soda - make sure that yours is fresh

How to Make Peanut Brittle in the Microwave

1. In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine sugar and corn syrup.
2. Cook in the microwave on high power for 3-½ minutes. Carefully remove the bowl from the microwave with oven mitts.
3. Add peanuts to the hot sugar mixture and stir well.
4. Place back in the microwave and cook on high for 2-½ minutes. Remove carefully from the oven and stir in butter and vanilla extract.
5. Return to microwave and cook on high power for 1 minute and 40 seconds. Candy should register 300°F on a digital or candy thermometer. Quickly add baking soda.
6. Stir until light and foamy.

7. Immediately pour onto a buttered cookie sheet and spread with a silicone spatula. You need to move quickly as it starts to harden very quickly.
8. Let cool then lift from the baking sheet and break into pieces. See below for ways to crack the brittle.

How to Break Peanut Brittle

Breaking this brittle is relatively straightforward. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

1. Before attempting to break the peanut brittle, ensure it has cooled and fully set. This typically means waiting for at least an hour, but it can vary depending on the thickness of your brittle and your room temperature.
2. Gently lift the edges of the peanut brittle from the baking sheet or tray. If you've used a silicone baking mat or parchment paper, this step will be easier.
3. Hand Method: Hold the peanut brittle with both hands (one on each side) and apply a gentle downward pressure. The brittle should naturally snap into shards. If your brittle is on the thicker side, you might need to use more force.
4. Knife Methods: Lay the cooled peanut brittle flat on a cutting board. Using a large, sharp knife, press down on the brittle where you'd like it to break. You can also make a score line and then snap along that line.
5. Hammer Method: Place the peanut brittle inside a large zip-top bag or between two sheets of parchment paper. Gently tap the brittle with a mallet or the flat side of a meat tenderizer. This method is especially useful if you want smaller, more uniform pieces.

Recipe Tips

• Ensure all ingredients are measured and within arm's reach before diving into the brittle-making process. An organized workspace makes the process smoother.
• Butter your sheet pan generously to prevent the brittle from adhering to it. Alternatively, a parchment paper or silicone mat can be an excellent non-stick solution.
• For easy mixing and spreading, opt for a silicone spatula. If you're using a regular one, a quick spray with non-stick spray does wonders in preventing any stickiness.
• The bowl will be scorching after microwaving. Always use kitchen mitts to avoid burns and ensure safe handling.
• For batches, use 2 large bowls and 2 separate spoons or spatulas. When you have finished cooking the first batch, put that bowl and spatula in the sink and fill it with very hot water. Let it sit while you make the next batch. Once it has sat long enough, you should be able to clean it easily and get it ready for the third batch.

Remember, a little prep and care can go a long way in ensuring your peanut brittle turns out just right!

Recipe Variations for a Twist on Classic Peanut Brittle

Go Nutty! While traditional peanut brittle is a classic favorite, don't shy away from trying other nuts. Here are some delicious alternatives:

• Almond Brittle: Replace peanuts with almonds for a richer, slightly sweet taste.
• Cashew Brittle: Opt for cashews to introduce a buttery flavor profile.
• Pecan Brittle: Choose pecans for a Southern touch and a delightful crunch.
• Walnut Brittle: Walnuts provide a distinct earthy taste, giving a unique twist to the brittle.
• Raw Peanuts: If you prefer a more natural, nutty flavor, go for raw peanuts.
• Spanish Peanuts: For those who appreciate a robust peanut taste and slightly different texture, Spanish peanuts are an excellent choice.

Sweet and Savory Options

• Bacon Brittle: Introduce crispy, crumbled bacon into your brittle mix for a savory surprise that complements the sweetness perfectly.
• Chocolate-Covered Brittle: Once your brittle has cooled, drizzle or dip pieces in melted chocolate. Dark, milk, or white chocolate – the choice is yours!
• Cinnamon Brittle: Add a pinch or two of ground cinnamon to the sugar mixture for a warmly spiced version.
• Toffee Twist: Mix in toffee chips for added sweetness and a delightful crunch that takes the brittle to another level.
• Spicy Brittle: Looking for a kick? Introduce a dash of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.

How to Store Peanut Brittle

Storing peanut brittle correctly is crucial for maintaining its freshness, crunch, and delightful flavor. Here's how to store peanut brittle for the best results:

1. Before storing, ensure that the peanut brittle has cooled entirely and set. This will prevent condensation from forming in the storage container, which could make the brittle soft or sticky.
2. Use an airtight container. This type of container will keep out moisture and prevent the brittle from becoming sticky. Glass jars with tight-fitting lids, plastic containers with sealable lids, or zip-top plastic bags are all good options.
3. Parchment paper or wax paper between layers will prevent the pieces from sticking together.
4. Humidity is the enemy of crisp peanut brittle. Ensure the storage location is free from moisture. A pantry or cupboard away from heat sources like the stove or oven is ideal. Avoid storing near the dishwasher, as it can emit heat and moisture.
5. It's not recommended to refrigerate peanut brittle, as the moisture and cold can affect its texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does peanut brittle go bad?

Yes, peanut brittle can go bad, especially if it's not stored properly. Here are some factors and signs to consider:

• Moisture: One of the primary enemies of peanut brittle is moisture. If peanut brittle is exposed to moisture, it can become sticky, lose its crispness, and even begin to dissolve. This not only affects the texture but can also make it more susceptible to spoilage.
• Rancidity: The nuts in the peanut brittle can become rancid over time. Rancidity is a result of the oils in nuts breaking down, and it can impart an unpleasant taste and odor to the brittle. If your peanut brittle smells or tastes off, it's best not to consume it.
• Staleness: Even if the peanut brittle hasn't gone bad per se, it can become stale if it's exposed to air for prolonged periods. Stale peanut brittle might be less crispy and have a less vibrant flavor.
• Mold: In very rare cases, if peanut brittle has been stored in particularly damp conditions, mold can develop. Any visible mold or an unusual, musty smell is a clear sign that the peanut brittle has gone bad and should not be consumed.
• Storage Time: While peanut brittle is a long-lasting treat when stored properly, it's not indefinite. Typically, when stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, peanut brittle can last for several weeks. If frozen, it can last even longer, up to several months. However, always check for signs of spoilage before consuming.
• Other Ingredients: If your peanut brittle contains additional ingredients beyond the standard ones, it could affect its shelf life. For example, bacon brittle or brittle with added dairy components might have a shorter shelf life than traditional peanut brittle.

To ensure your peanut brittle remains fresh and safe to eat, it's essential to store it properly and check for any signs of spoilage before consumption.

Is peanut brittle toffee?

Peanut brittle and toffee are distinct confections, even though both are based on caramelized sugar.

Peanut brittle, made with sugar and often corn syrup, is mixed with baking soda, resulting in an airy, crunchy texture and combined with peanuts for its signature taste.

Toffee, on the other hand, is crafted from sugar and butter, yielding a dense, buttery, and sometimes slightly chewy consistency.

While peanut brittle's flavor is dominated by caramelized sugar and peanuts, toffee boasts a rich, creamy profile, often enhanced with additions like chocolate or almonds.

Is peanut brittle vegan?

Traditional peanut brittle is often vegan, as the primary ingredients are sugar, corn syrup, peanuts, water, and baking soda. However, some variations or recipes might include non-vegan ingredients, such as butter.

If purchasing store-bought peanut brittle, it's essential to check the ingredient list for any potential non-vegan additives. If you're making it at home, ensure that all the ingredients you use are vegan-friendly.

More Recipes for Nutty Holiday Treats

• Brazil Nut Snowball Cookies
• Candied Pecans
• Maple Roasted Peanuts
• Peanut Brittle Cookies
• Orange Pistachio Biscotti

Find lots of easy recipes for Christmas right here on 2CM!

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This post has been updated with new photos, step-by-step directions, and more helpful information. It was first published on January 26, 2015.