Desserts

Dixie Peanut Brittle (Microwave)

Combine peanuts, sugar, syrup, and salt in a 2 -1/2 quart microwave safe container. 700 watt oven: Microwave 4 minutes on HIGH POWER; stir, microwave 4 minutes longer on HIGH POWER.
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Ingredients

Peanut Brittle
  • 1+1/2 cups cups raw shelled peanuts, skins on
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 tsp butter
  • 1/2 cup light corn syrup
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/8 tsp  tsp salt
  • 1/8 tsp baking soda

Equipment

  • 2½-quart microwave-safe container
  • Microwave
  • Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
  • Lightly greased baking sheet
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons

Instructions

  1. Lightly grease a baking sheet and set it aside. In a 2½-quart microwave-safe container, combine the raw shelled peanuts, sugar, light corn syrup, and salt. Stir until the ingredients are evenly mixed.

  2. Step 2 (700-Watt Microwave)

    For a 700-watt microwave, cook on HIGH power for 4 minutes. Stir carefully, then microwave on HIGH power for an additional 4 minutes.

  3. Step 3 (1200-Watt Microwave)

    For a 1200-watt microwave, cook on 60% power for 4 minutes. Stir carefully, then microwave on 60% power for another 4 minutes.
  4. After completing the appropriate cooking time for your microwave, stir in the butter and vanilla extract until combined.

  5. Step 5 (Finish Cooking)

    Continue cooking using the setting for your microwave:
    700-watt microwave: Microwave on HIGH power for 2 additional minutes.1200-watt microwave: Microwave on 60% power for 1 additional minute.
  6. Quickly stir in the baking soda until the mixture becomes light, foamy, and increases in volume. Work quickly, as the mixture begins setting almost immediately.
  7. Immediately pour the hot brittle mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it to approximately ¼-inch thickness.
  8. Allow the brittle to cool completely until hardened. Break into pieces and store in an airtight container.
    Important: If your microwave requires cooking time adjustments, make those adjustments before adding the baking soda.

Notes

Making Homemade Microwave Peanut Brittle

Dixie Peanut Brittle offers a simple way to prepare crisp, homemade peanut candy using a microwave instead of a traditional stovetop. Raw peanuts cook alongside sugar and corn syrup before baking soda creates the airy texture that gives peanut brittle its signature crunch. The result is a classic candy that's ideal for holidays, gifts, or enjoying throughout the year.
This recipe includes directions for both 700-watt and 1200-watt microwave ovens, making it easier to prepare consistent results regardless of your appliance.

The Role of Baking Soda

Baking soda is added during the final stage of cooking and should be stirred in quickly. It causes the hot sugar mixture to foam, creating tiny air pockets that give peanut brittle its light, crisp texture. Once added, the mixture should immediately be poured onto the prepared baking sheet before it begins to harden.
Having every ingredient measured and the baking sheet prepared beforehand helps ensure the brittle spreads evenly.

Perfect for Holidays and Homemade Gifts

Peanut brittle has remained a favorite homemade candy for generations because it stores well and is easy to package for sharing. Once completely cooled, the brittle can be broken into irregular pieces and stored in an airtight container to help maintain its crisp texture.
Whether served during the holidays or enjoyed year-round, this classic recipe highlights the simple combination of roasted peanut flavor and caramelized sugar.

Peanuts at the Center of a Classic Candy

Peanut brittle has long showcased the flavor and texture of quality peanuts grown by farmers throughout North Carolina, Virginia, South Carolina, and other peanut-producing regions. Their harvests become everything from roasted snacks and peanut butter to traditional candies enjoyed across generations.
Learn more about Where Peanuts Grow, explore The Peanut's Journey, or discover the different market classes in Peanut Types. Looking for more homemade sweets? Browse additional recipes in our Desserts collection.

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