Easy Microwave Peanut Brittle
A sweet, crunchy homemade peanut brittle with a perfect balance of buttery sweetness and satisfying crunch. Made using a simple microwave-friendly method, this classic candy is quick to prepare and ideal for sharing or gifting.
Servings: 16 servings
Calories: 250kcal
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated white sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 2 cups raw or roasted and salted peanuts
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (if using raw peanuts)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Nonstick spray (for the baking sheet)
Instructions
- Prepare the baking sheet: Spray a rimmed cookie sheet thoroughly with nonstick spray to ensure easy removal of the brittle later.
- Mix sugar base: In a medium-large saucepan, combine 2 cups of granulated white sugar, 1 cup of water, and 1 cup of light corn syrup. Stir the mixture gently to combine the ingredients.
- Cook to soft ball stage: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook slowly, stirring gently now and then until the candy reaches the soft ball stage — 245°F (118°C) on a candy thermometer.
- Add peanuts and salt: Immediately add 2 cups of peanuts and 1/4 teaspoon salt if using raw peanuts. Stir them in to coat evenly with the syrup.
- Continue cooking to hard crack stage: Keep cooking the mixture, stirring occasionally until the candy thermometer reads 300°F (149°C). The mixture will begin to thicken and turn golden brown.
- Add baking soda: Remove the saucepan from heat briefly to add 1 teaspoon of baking soda. Stir quickly and thoroughly. The mixture will foam and become lighter in color.
- Finish cooking: Return to heat, and cook for just about a minute more until the mixture deepens to a rich golden brown.
- Spread on prepared pan: Immediately pour the hot brittle mixture onto the sprayed cookie sheet. Use a wooden spoon to spread it as thin and even as possible.
- Cool completely: Allow the brittle to cool and harden completely before breaking into pieces.
Notes
Use a large cookie sheet for an even, thin layer. Break the brittle into pieces once it's cool and hardened. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. If using raw peanuts, ensure they are salted according to your taste.