Microwave peanut brittle delivers crispy, buttery candy in just 10 minutes without special equipment or candy thermometer skills. The microwave method eliminates stovetop monitoring while producing the same classic texture and flavor.
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In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the granulated sugar and light corn syrup. Stir to mix.
Microwave the mixture on high for 4 minutes.
While the sugar is cooking, generously grease a baking sheet with butter.
Carefully remove the hot bowl from the microwave using an oven mitt. Stir the mixture, then add the peanuts and stir again to fully combine.
Return the bowl to the microwave and cook for another 3-4 minutes. Watch it closely until the mixture turns a light amber color.
Carefully remove the bowl from the microwave. Immediately add the butter, baking soda, and vanilla extract. Stir quickly; the mixture will foam up.
Quickly pour the hot brittle mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
Using a butter knife or spatula, spread the brittle into a thin, even layer as quickly as you can before it sets.
Let the brittle cool completely on the baking sheet until it is hard.
Once hardened, break the peanut brittle into pieces and serve.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks; protect from humidity to maintain crispness.
microwave · microwave-safe bowl · baking sheet · butter for greasing
No. This recipe relies on microwave timing and visual cues (the mixture darkening) rather than temperature monitoring, making it beginner-friendly.
The mixture likely didn't cook long enough in the microwave. Continue heating in 30-second intervals until it darkens to a golden-amber color before adding baking soda.
Yes. Unsalted peanuts work fine, but you may want to add a pinch of salt to the sugar mixture to balance the sweetness.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Keep away from moisture and humidity to maintain crispness.
Yes, but increase microwave cooking time by 2–3 minutes and stir more frequently to ensure even heating in larger batches.
