Enjoy a delicious and crunchy treat with this quick and easy microwave peanut brittle recipe. This classic American dessert is made with just a few simple ingredients and can be prepared in a matter of minutes using your microwave. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or as a homemade gift for friends and family. Get ready to indulge in a delightful combination of peanuts and caramelized sugar!
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup unsalted peanuts
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon butter
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
Directions
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the sugar and corn syrup. Stir well to ensure all the sugar is coated in the syrup.
- Microwave the mixture on high for 4 minutes. Carefully remove the bowl from the microwave using oven mitts as it will be hot.
- Stir in the peanuts and microwave for another 3-4 minutes, until the mixture turns a light golden brown.
- Remove the bowl from the microwave and quickly stir in the vanilla extract, butter, and baking soda. The mixture will foam up, so be careful.
- Immediately pour the hot mixture onto a greased baking sheet or a silicone baking mat. Use a spoon or spatula to spread it out into a thin, even layer.
- Allow the peanut brittle to cool completely and harden, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes.
- Once cooled, break the brittle into small, bite-sized pieces using your hands or a knife.
- Store the peanut brittle in an airtight container to keep it fresh and crunchy.
Interesting Facts
Traditional peanut brittle is made by heating the sugar and corn syrup on the stovetop, but this microwave version offers a faster and easier method.
Adding baking soda to the hot caramel mixture creates tiny air bubbles, giving the brittle its characteristic light and crunchy texture.
Peanut brittle is believed to have originated in the South and is often associated with holidays like Christmas and Thanksgiving.