Microwave Peanut Brittle: A Sweet & Crunchy Treat in Minutes!
Peanut brittle, with its irresistible combination of sweet, crunchy, and salty flavors, is a classic treat loved by many. While traditional recipes often involve stovetop cooking and careful candy thermometer monitoring, this recipe brings the magic of peanut brittle to your kitchen with the convenience of a microwave oven. Get ready to enjoy a homemade delight that’s ready in minutes, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings or gifting to friends and family.
Why Microwave Peanut Brittle?
* **Speed and Simplicity:** The microwave significantly reduces the cooking time and complexity compared to stovetop methods. You’ll have a batch of peanut brittle ready in under 15 minutes.
* **Ease of Cleaning:** Say goodbye to sticky pots and pans! Microwave cooking minimizes the mess and makes cleanup a breeze.
* **Beginner-Friendly:** This recipe is perfect for novice candy makers, as it eliminates the need for precise temperature control and constant stirring.
* **Perfect for Small Batches:** If you only want a small amount of peanut brittle, the microwave is the ideal tool for the job. No need to make a large batch when you can quickly whip up a smaller one.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive into the recipe, gather the following ingredients:
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* ½ cup light corn syrup
* ¼ cup butter, salted or unsalted (your preference)
* 1 cup raw peanuts, skin on or off (your preference)
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
Ingredient Notes
* **Sugar:** Granulated sugar provides the primary sweetness and structure for the brittle.
* **Corn Syrup:** Light corn syrup helps to prevent crystallization and ensures a smooth, glassy texture. Don’t substitute with dark corn syrup, as it will alter the flavor and color.
* **Butter:** Butter adds richness and flavor to the brittle. You can use salted or unsalted butter based on your preference. If using unsalted butter, consider adding a pinch of salt to the mixture.
* **Peanuts:** Raw peanuts are recommended for the best flavor and texture. You can use peanuts with the skin on or off, depending on your preference. Roasted peanuts can also be used, but be mindful that they may brown more quickly in the microwave.
* **Vanilla Extract:** Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile of the brittle.
* **Baking Soda:** Baking soda is the secret ingredient that creates the characteristic airy, crispy texture of peanut brittle. It reacts with the other ingredients to produce carbon dioxide, which forms tiny bubbles in the candy.
Equipment You’ll Need
* Microwave-safe glass bowl (at least 2-quart capacity)
* Microwave oven
* Silicone spatula or wooden spoon
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Baking sheet or pizza pan
* Parchment paper or silicone mat
* Optional: Candy thermometer (for optional temperature check)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make perfect microwave peanut brittle:
**Step 1: Prepare Your Work Surface**
Before you begin, line a baking sheet or pizza pan with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This will prevent the brittle from sticking and make it easy to remove after it has cooled.
**Step 2: Combine Sugar and Corn Syrup**
In the microwave-safe glass bowl, combine the granulated sugar and light corn syrup. Stir well to ensure the sugar is evenly moistened.
**Step 3: Microwave the Sugar Mixture**
Place the bowl in the microwave and cook on high for 3 minutes. The mixture will begin to bubble and melt.
**Step 4: Add Butter and Peanuts**
Remove the bowl from the microwave and stir in the butter until it is completely melted and incorporated. Add the peanuts and stir to coat them evenly with the sugar mixture.
**Step 5: Microwave Again**
Return the bowl to the microwave and cook on high for another 2 to 3 minutes, or until the mixture turns a light golden brown color. Watch it carefully, as it can burn quickly. The mixture should reach a temperature of 300°F (149°C) if you are using a candy thermometer (hard-crack stage).
**Step 6: Stir in Vanilla and Baking Soda**
Remove the bowl from the microwave and quickly stir in the vanilla extract and baking soda. The mixture will foam up rapidly. Stir gently but thoroughly to distribute the baking soda evenly.
**Step 7: Pour and Spread**
Immediately pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet or pizza pan. Use a spatula to spread it into a thin, even layer. Work quickly, as the brittle will begin to harden as it cools.
**Step 8: Cool and Break**
Let the peanut brittle cool completely at room temperature. This usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour. Once it is cool and hardened, break it into pieces with your hands or a knife.
Tips for Perfect Microwave Peanut Brittle
* **Use a Large Bowl:** The mixture will expand significantly when you add the baking soda, so make sure you use a bowl that is large enough to accommodate the expansion.
* **Watch Carefully:** Microwave ovens vary in power, so it’s important to watch the mixture carefully as it cooks. If it starts to burn, stop the microwave immediately.
* **Don’t Overcook:** Overcooking the mixture will result in a bitter, burnt flavor. Aim for a light golden brown color.
* **Work Quickly:** Once you add the baking soda, you need to work quickly to pour and spread the mixture before it hardens.
* **Even Layer:** Spreading the mixture into an even layer will ensure that the brittle cools and hardens evenly.
* **Cool Completely:** Make sure the brittle is completely cool before breaking it into pieces. This will prevent it from being sticky or soft.
* **Storage:** Store peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
Troubleshooting
**Problem:** Brittle is too soft.
**Solution:**
* You may not have cooked the mixture long enough. Try microwaving it for another 30 seconds to 1 minute, watching carefully to avoid burning.
* The weather could be a factor. Humid conditions can prevent the brittle from hardening properly. Consider adding a tablespoon of cornstarch to the sugar mixture to help absorb moisture.
**Problem:** Brittle is too hard or burnt.
**Solution:**
* You may have overcooked the mixture. Reduce the cooking time by 30 seconds to 1 minute in future batches.
* Ensure your microwave power setting is appropriate. If your microwave is very powerful, consider reducing the power level slightly.
**Problem:** Brittle is sticky.
**Solution:**
* Humidity can make brittle sticky. Store it in an airtight container with a piece of parchment paper to help absorb moisture.
* Make sure the brittle has cooled completely before breaking it into pieces.
**Problem:** Peanuts are burnt.
**Solution:**
* Use raw peanuts instead of roasted peanuts. Roasted peanuts tend to burn more easily in the microwave.
* Reduce the cooking time slightly.
**Problem:** Baking soda didn’t make the brittle airy.
**Solution:**
* Make sure your baking soda is fresh. Old baking soda may not react properly.
* Stir the baking soda in quickly and thoroughly.
Variations and Additions
Once you’ve mastered the basic microwave peanut brittle recipe, feel free to experiment with different variations and additions:
* **Different Nuts:** Substitute peanuts with other nuts like almonds, cashews, pecans, or walnuts. Adjust cooking time as needed, as some nuts may brown more quickly.
* **Chocolate Peanut Brittle:** Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled peanut brittle for an extra layer of sweetness and indulgence. You can use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or white chocolate.
* **Spicy Peanut Brittle:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the sugar mixture for a spicy kick. Be careful not to add too much, as a little goes a long way.
* **Sea Salt Peanut Brittle:** Sprinkle the cooled peanut brittle with flaky sea salt to enhance the sweet and salty flavors.
* **Sesame Seed Peanut Brittle:** Add sesame seeds to the peanut mixture for a nutty and slightly savory flavor.
* **Coconut Peanut Brittle:** Add shredded coconut to the peanut mixture for a tropical twist.
* **Pretzel Peanut Brittle:** Incorporate broken pretzel pieces into the peanut mixture for a salty and crunchy texture.
* **Butterscotch Peanut Brittle:** Add butterscotch chips to the mixture during the last minute of microwaving.
* **Orange Zest:** Add a teaspoon of orange zest for a citrusy aroma.
## Serving Suggestions
Microwave peanut brittle can be enjoyed in many ways:
* **As a Snack:** Enjoy it straight from the baking sheet for a quick and satisfying snack.
* **As a Dessert:** Serve it as a simple and delicious dessert after a meal.
* **As a Gift:** Package it in a decorative tin or bag to give as a homemade gift to friends and family.
* **As a Topping:** Crumble it over ice cream, yogurt, or oatmeal for added flavor and crunch.
* **In Trail Mix:** Add it to your favorite trail mix for a sweet and salty energy boost.
* **With Coffee or Tea:** Enjoy it as a sweet treat alongside your morning coffee or afternoon tea.
* **Party Favor:** Pack small bags of peanut brittle as party favors for your guests.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
Please note that this is an estimate and will vary depending on the exact ingredients used and portion size.
* Calories: 150-200
* Fat: 8-12 grams
* Saturated Fat: 3-5 grams
* Cholesterol: 5-10 mg
* Sodium: 50-100 mg
* Carbohydrates: 20-25 grams
* Sugar: 15-20 grams
* Protein: 3-5 grams
Conclusion
Microwave peanut brittle is a quick, easy, and delicious way to satisfy your sweet tooth. With just a few simple ingredients and a microwave oven, you can create a homemade treat that rivals store-bought versions. Experiment with different variations and additions to create your own signature peanut brittle. Whether you’re making it for yourself, your family, or as a gift, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the sweet, crunchy, and salty goodness of microwave peanut brittle!