Microwave Peanut Brittle

5 from 2 votes

This classic sweet and salty microwave peanut brittle is a favorite to make during the holidays.

Cook Time8

Rest Time30

Total Time38

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Microwave Peanut Brittle Recipe

Servings:

Calories: 191kcal

Prepare a rimmed baking sheet by lining it with a piece of aluminum foil and generously buttering the aluminum foil all over. Alternatively, you can line the baking sheet with a silicone baking mat. Set aside.
In a 2-quart, microwave-safe bowl, place the sugar, light corn syrup, salt, and peanuts. Stir to combine, then microwave on high for 4 minutes.
Very carefully remove the mixing bowl and give the corn syrup mixture a quick stir before microwaving for another 4 minutes. Carefully remove the hot bowl and place it on a heat-safe counter.
Add the unsalted butter and vanilla extract. Stir quickly to combine, then add the baking soda. Give the microwave peanut brittle a good stir to combine all the ingredients. Quickly, and carefully, pour the mixture onto the prepared rimmed baking tray.
Using a rubber spatula, spread the peanut brittle into an even layer in a rough 8x10-size rectangle on the prepared baking sheet.
Allow the microwave peanut brittle to cool on the counter for a minimum of 30 minutes, up to an hour, before breaking it into smaller pieces.

Note that if you use medium or dark corn syrup (Karo syrup), that your peanut brittle will become very dark and will not turn out like this recipe. It will not only be a very dark color but will also be a much richer flavor than traditional peanut brittle.
CAUTION! You are working with very hot sugar and a very hot bowl. Make sure that you use caution in handling both the brittle and the mixing bowl. I highly suggest that you use a 2-quart (8-cup) microwave-safe glass measuring bowl that has a handle. It will be much easier to transfer the hot bowl in and out of the microwave. It will also make it much easier to handle while stirring the cooked sugars.
This recipe was made using a 1000-watt microwave.
You will notice that the mixture of corn syrup and sugars, along with the peanuts, will darken to a beautiful caramel color when done heating in the microwave. This is perfect!
I highly suggest using a rubber spatula to mix the sugars and peanuts for this recipe. It also works best for spreading the hot brittle mixture onto the prepared pan.
DO NOT place the hot bowl into a cold sink or into (or under) water until the bowl is completely cool. Allow the bowl to cool on the counter before trying to clean it. You will risk the glass bowl shattering if the proper care is not taken.