Golden Almond Crunch

Welcome to the simplest and most satisfying way to make homemade almond brittle – no candy thermometer required! This incredible recipe is perfect for anyone looking to create a delightful crunchy treat without the usual fuss associated with candy making. Whether you’re whipping up a batch for a party, preparing thoughtful edible gifts, or simply craving a quick, sweet nibble, this microwave almond brittle delivers every time. It’s even a fantastic, safe, and engaging kitchen project for kids, especially when creating appreciation gifts for teachers.

The allure of brittle lies in its irresistible combination of crisp, caramelized sugar and toasted nuts. Our no-fail microwave method streamlines the process, ensuring consistent results and a wonderfully golden, buttery brittle with a perfect snap. Forget about meticulously monitoring temperatures or worrying about scorching your candy; this recipe uses visual cues and timed microwave intervals to guide you to brittle perfection.

Contents

Why This Easy Microwave Almond Brittle Recipe Will Become Your Favorite

This microwave almond brittle isn’t just easy; it’s a game-changer for homemade candy enthusiasts and beginners alike. Here’s why this recipe will quickly become a cherished part of your culinary repertoire:

Effortlessly Simple & Quick: Say goodbye to complex candy-making techniques and lengthy preparation. This recipe requires only a handful of common ingredients and less than 10 minutes of active cooking time in the microwave. It’s truly a no-fuss dessert that yields professional-tasting results, perfect for those moments when a sweet craving strikes or you need a quick gift.
No Candy Thermometer Needed: This is arguably the biggest selling point and what makes this recipe accessible to everyone. We eliminate the need for specialized equipment and the stress of precise temperature readings. Instead, we rely on simple timing and visual cues to achieve the perfect caramelization, ensuring your brittle is consistently crisp and delicious.
Incredibly Versatile: While this recipe spotlights delightful almonds, the base candy mixture is remarkably adaptable. You can easily swap out almonds for your preferred nuts, or even combine several types for a unique flavor and texture profile. Explore delicious variations with peanuts, cashews, pecans, walnuts, or even a mix of seeds like pumpkin or sunflower for an added twist.
A Delightful Family Activity: Making brittle can be a fantastic and memorable activity to share with older children. Under careful adult supervision, kids can safely help with measuring ingredients, stirring, and spreading the mixture, turning the cooking process into a fun and educational bonding experience. My own children, nearly a decade ago, absolutely loved preparing these for their teachers. The teachers were so impressed, they even asked for the recipe! This simple act of creating something delicious together can foster a lifelong love for cooking and a sense of accomplishment.
Perfect for Thoughtful Gifting: Homemade brittle makes an exceptional and highly appreciated gift for holidays, special occasions, or just to show someone you care. Its impressive appearance, delightful crunch, and rich flavor will make anyone feel special. Pack it in charming decorative cello bags, small tins, or elegant glass jars for a personalized touch that outshines store-bought alternatives.

Essential Ingredients for Your Microwave Almond Brittle

Crafting perfect microwave almond brittle requires just a few basic pantry staples. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving that signature crisp texture and rich, sweet flavor. Quality ingredients, even in a simple recipe like this, make all the difference.

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Granulated Sugar: This forms the crystalline foundation of our brittle, providing the necessary sweetness and, through caramelization, developing deep, complex flavors.
Light Corn Syrup: An unsung hero in candy making, corn syrup is essential for preventing sugar crystallization. It ensures a smooth, clear, and perfectly crunchy brittle that won’t turn grainy. It also adds a subtle chewiness and helps the mixture achieve that beautiful golden-amber color.
Salt: A small pinch of salt works wonders by enhancing all the flavors, balancing the intense sweetness, and adding a crucial depth to the overall taste of the brittle. Don’t skip it!
Sliced Raw Almonds: The star of the show! Sliced almonds toast beautifully within the hot sugar mixture, releasing their aromatic oils and offering a delicate, satisfying crunch and nutty flavor. You can also use chopped almonds for a different texture.
Unsalted Butter: Adds a rich, creamy flavor and contributes to the brittle’s smooth texture. It also helps lubricate the mixture, preventing it from sticking excessively to the bowl and aiding in the spreading process. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the total salt content.
Cinnamon: Provides a warm, inviting spice note that beautifully complements the natural sweetness of the almonds and the rich caramel. Feel free to adjust the amount to your liking, or omit it if you prefer a pure almond flavor.
Vanilla Extract: A classic flavor enhancer, vanilla extract deepens and rounds out the overall taste of the brittle, adding a layer of aromatic complexity. Use good quality pure vanilla for the best results.
Baking Soda: This is the true “magic” ingredient! When added at the very end, baking soda reacts with the hot sugar mixture, rapidly creating tiny air bubbles throughout. This leavening action makes the brittle light, airy, and delightfully easy to break into pieces, rather than being dense and rock-hard.

For convenience and safety, a microwave-safe 2.5-quart bowl is highly recommended for this recipe. Its ample size ensures enough space for the mixture to foam up without overflowing. A versatile microwave nesting Pyrex set can be an incredibly handy addition to any kitchen for various cooking tasks.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Mastering Microwave Almond Brittle

Making this almond brittle is straightforward, but careful attention to timing and, most importantly, safety, is crucial for perfect results every time. Follow these detailed steps for a beautifully crisp and delicious candy. Remember, you will be working with extremely hot sugar, so adult supervision is essential, especially if making this recipe with children.

Prepare Your Baking Sheet: Before you even start heating, prepare your surface. Line a 13×9 inch baking sheet or a jelly-roll pan with either parchment paper or aluminum foil. Then, lightly brush the paper or foil generously with unsalted butter or spray it thoroughly with cooking spray. This crucial step prevents the brittle from sticking and ensures easy removal and cleanup later. Set your prepared sheet aside and have it ready.
Combine Initial Ingredients: In a large (at least 2.5-quart) microwave-safe bowl, combine the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and salt. At this stage, there’s no need to stir them; simply add them to the bowl as listed.
First Microwave Interval (4 minutes): Place the bowl in the microwave and cook on high power for 4 minutes. Midway through this interval (after 2 minutes), carefully pause the microwave, remove the bowl using oven mitts, and stir the mixture thoroughly. Make sure to scrape down any sugar crystals from the sides and bottom of the bowl to ensure even cooking and prevent crystallization. Return to the microwave to complete the 4 minutes. The mixture will be hot and syrupy after this stage.
Add Nuts and Flavorings: Carefully remove the bowl from the microwave again using oven mitts. Stir in the sliced almonds, butter, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until all ingredients are well combined. The butter will melt and integrate into the sugar mixture.
Second Microwave Interval (2-3 minutes): Return the bowl to the microwave and cook on high for an additional 2-3 minutes. This is a critical stage for caramelization. Midway through this period (after about 1-1.5 minutes), carefully pause, remove the bowl, and stir the mixture again. The mixture should be transforming into a light caramel color, similar to a brown paper bag. Watch it very closely during this stage, as microwave powers vary, and sugar can burn quickly. Continue microwaving until the desired light caramel hue is achieved.
Incorporate Baking Soda: Immediately after the second microwave interval, remove the bowl from the microwave. Quickly add the baking soda and stir it vigorously and continuously until it is thoroughly combined. You will observe a remarkable and satisfying transformation: the entire mixture will become bubbly, foamy, and its color will lighten significantly. This is the baking soda reacting, creating countless tiny air pockets that give brittle its characteristic airy, crisp crunch.
Spread the Brittle Quickly: Working very quickly (as the hot mixture sets fast), pour the hot, bubbly brittle onto your prepared 13×9 inch baking sheet. Use the back of a wooden spoon or a heat-resistant spatula to carefully and evenly spread the mixture across the sheet, aiming for approximately ¼ inch thickness. Try to spread it as thinly and evenly as possible for the best texture and easy breaking.
Cool and Break Apart: Allow the brittle to cool completely and set undisturbed for at least 45 minutes to 1 hour at room temperature. Resist the urge to touch or move it before it’s fully hardened. Once it is completely cool and firm, use your hands to gently break it into irregular, bite-sized pieces. Your homemade almond brittle is now ready to enjoy!

Expert Tips for Achieving Perfect Microwave Almond Brittle

While this recipe is incredibly simple, a few expert tips and precautions can ensure your almond brittle turns out perfectly crisp and delicious every single time. Pay attention to these details for the best results:

Prioritize Safety: Always, always exercise extreme caution when handling the brittle mixture. The bowl and its contents will be incredibly hot, reaching temperatures that can cause severe burns. Use sturdy oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves at all times when handling the bowl, and be mindful of hot splashes. Never leave children unattended while the candy mixture is hot.
Select the Correct Bowl Size: It’s absolutely essential to use a microwave-safe bowl that is at least 2.5 quarts (or larger). After you add the baking soda, the mixture will foam up considerably, potentially doubling or even tripling in volume. A smaller bowl risks overflow, which is not only a messy cleanup but also extremely dangerous due to boiling hot sugar.
Understand Your Microwave’s Power: All microwaves vary in wattage and cooking intensity. The cooking times provided in the recipe are estimates and serve as a guide. It’s crucial to keep a very close eye on your brittle mixture, especially during the second cooking interval. The sugar mixture should gradually turn a beautiful light caramel color, resembling a brown paper bag. If you notice it rising excessively or looking like it might overflow, stop the microwave immediately, stir, and then continue cooking for shorter bursts (e.g., 30-second increments) until the correct color is achieved.
Thorough Surface Preparation: Always, without exception, line your baking sheet with parchment paper or foil, and generously grease it with unsalted butter or cooking spray. This critical step forms a non-stick barrier that prevents the hot brittle from adhering to the pan, ensuring easy removal and making cleanup considerably simpler.
Effortless Cleanup Method: Don’t despair over a sticky, candy-coated bowl! The easiest and most effective way to clean a bowl used for candy making is to immediately place it in the kitchen sink and fill it with very warm to hot water. Let it soak for a while – the hardened sugar will dissolve on its own, making the bowl effortlessly easy to wash afterward.
The Crucial Role of Baking Soda: Ensure your baking soda is fresh and measure it accurately. This seemingly small ingredient is the key to brittle’s signature light and airy texture, preventing it from becoming a dense, tooth-breaking rock. Its rapid reaction creates countless tiny bubbles that contribute to the brittle’s characteristic porous structure and make it easy to break into delightful pieces.
Patient Cooling is Paramount: Resist the urge to touch, cut, or move the brittle while it’s cooling. Allow it to set completely undisturbed at room temperature for at least 45 minutes to an hour. Rushing this critical cooling step can result in a brittle that’s chewy, sticky, or not fully set, rather than perfectly crisp.

Creative Variations for Your Almond Brittle

While classic almond brittle is undeniably delicious, this recipe serves as a perfect canvas for culinary creativity. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different nuts, spices, and flavorings to customize your brittle and make it uniquely yours:

Nutty Alternatives: Feel free to use any nut you prefer or a delightful combination! Peanuts are a classic and popular choice for a traditional brittle, but hazelnuts, pecans, cashews, pistachios, or even macadamia nuts work wonderfully. For an extra twist, try lightly smoked almonds or pre-candied nuts. Always ensure the nuts are raw or only lightly toasted before adding them to prevent burning during the microwave process.
Spice It Up: Cinnamon adds a lovely warmth and depth that complements the almonds beautifully, but you can easily adjust the quantity or swap it for other fragrant spices. Consider a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg, a dash of ground cardamom, or even a touch of pumpkin pie spice for a festive, seasonal flavor.
Extract Experiments: Beyond classic vanilla, which deepens the flavor, you can explore other extracts. Try almond extract for a more intense almond flavor, a hint of orange or lemon extract for a bright, citrusy note, or a touch of peppermint extract for a festive holiday treat. Remember that extracts are potent, so always start with a small amount (¼ to ½ teaspoon) and adjust to your taste.
Chocolate Drizzle Indulgence: For an extra layer of decadence and visual appeal, once the brittle has completely cooled, hardened, and been broken into pieces, melt some good quality chocolate (dark, milk, or white) and artistically drizzle it over the brittle. Allow the chocolate to set completely before storing. A sprinkle of sea salt over the chocolate can elevate the flavors even further.

Making microwave almond brittle was a pivotal moment for me, marking my first venture into homemade candies more than a decade ago. It ignited a passion for simple, delicious treats.

Gifting Homemade Brittle: A Sweet, Personal Gesture

Homemade almond brittle isn’t just a treat to enjoy yourself; it’s a heartfelt gift that beautifully conveys warmth, effort, and personal touch. It’s perfectly suited for holidays, teacher appreciation gifts, hostess tokens, or simply as a thoughtful gesture to show friendship or gratitude. I recall fondly how my kids cherished the experience of making these for their teachers, carefully packing them into small cello goodie bags adorned with cute patterns – a tradition that brought immense joy to both the young givers and their appreciative educators.

To prepare your brittle for gifting or stylish presentation:

Thoughtful Packaging: Once the brittle is completely cooled and broken into irregular pieces, store them in airtight containers to maintain freshness. For gifting, consider using clear cello bags tied with festive ribbons, small decorative tins, or elegant glass jars with custom labels. These options not only protect the brittle but also elevate its presentation.
Personalized Presentation: Consider adding a small handwritten tag with a personalized message. If gifting to many, a neatly printed label with the recipe name and a brief note can also add a special touch. For those with dietary concerns, including a list of ingredients is a thoughtful gesture.
Longevity and Freshness: When stored correctly in an airtight container at room temperature, homemade brittle remains fresh and delightfully crisp for up to two to three weeks. This makes it an ideal gift that can be prepared well in advance of a special occasion, saving you time during busy periods.

More Delightful Homemade Treats to Explore from Amira’s Pantry

There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction that comes from creating homemade treats. Crafted with love and care, they bring immense joy to both the creator and the lucky recipient, truly creating a win-win situation. If you’ve enjoyed the simplicity and deliciousness of making this microwave almond brittle, you’ll surely love exploring these other delectable recipes from our kitchen. Expand your repertoire of homemade sweets!

Delicious Sesame and Cashew Candy: A delightful and crunchy Middle Eastern sweet, perfect for those who enjoy nutty, caramelized flavors with a unique twist.
Classic Homemade Turkish Delight (Malban): Indulge in this fancy, elegant confection with endless flavor and texture variations to suit every palate. A truly impressive and rewarding treat to master for special occasions.
Tanghulu Recipe: Also known as bingtanghulu, this vibrant and traditional Chinese snack features fresh fruits (like strawberries or grapes) dipped in a thick, crystal-clear sugar syrup that quickly cools to a hard, glossy shell, creating a beautiful and delicious treat.
No-Bake Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Truffles: Who can resist the irresistible allure of raw cookie dough? These incredibly easy, no-bake truffles are pure indulgence, perfect for a quick sweet fix or a party platter.
Festive Chocolate Peppermint Bark: An iconic holiday treat that’s surprisingly simple to make at home. Layers of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint make it a perfect addition to any festive gathering or gift basket.
Melt-in-Your-Mouth Pecan Snowball Cookies: Delicate, bite-sized cookies made with finely chopped pecans, powdered sugar, and rich butter. A very festive and irresistible treat that is perfect for any holiday season or cozy afternoon.
Fun & Customizable Cake Popsicles: These visually appealing and delicious treats are made by combining cake crumbs and frosting, then molding them into popsicle shapes and coating them with candy melts or chocolate. Easy to make and decorate for different themes and occasions.
Classic 3-Ingredient Oreo Balls: Here is a guaranteed winner, a no-bake recipe perfect for holidays, parties, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth effortlessly. These bite-sized treats are made from crushed sandwich cookies, cream cheese, and chocolate.
Rich Chocolate Peanut Butter Buckeye Balls: Indulge in the ultimate chocolate-peanut butter experience with these rich and creamy buckeye balls. Featuring a smooth, decadent peanut butter center coated in a luscious layer of chocolate, these bite-sized treats are sure to be a hit wherever they go.

I genuinely hope you enjoy making and sharing this delightful microwave almond brittle recipe. If you do make it, please snap a pic and hashtag it #amiraspantry — I’d absolutely love to see your wonderful creations on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter! Don’t want to miss out on any new recipes or kitchen tips? Sign up for the FREE Amira’s Pantry newsletter, delivered straight to your inbox with exclusive content and surprises. And, of course, stay connected with me on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram for all the latest updates and delicious inspiration.

If this recipe brings a smile to your face, please consider giving it a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ star rating and share a photo of your finished dish! It’s always a pleasure to see your culinary triumphs and unique interpretations of my recipes. Your feedback and shares are incredibly valuable and help our community grow. Thank you for your continued support!

Top view of almond brittle in a red dish.

Easy Microwave Almond Brittle (No Candy Thermometer)

An exceptionally easy and delicious candy, perfect for the holidays, thoughtful gifting, or a delightful after-dinner sweet nibble. Achieve perfect brittle every time without a candy thermometer!

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Course: Candy, Dessert

Cuisine: American

Diet: Halal

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooling Time: 45 minutes

Servings: 20 Pieces

Author: Amira

Ingredients

1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup light corn syrup
⅛ teaspoon salt
1 cup sliced raw almonds
½ teaspoon cinnamon
2 teaspoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda

Instructions

Line a 13×9 inch baking sheet with parchment paper or foil, and lightly brush with butter or spray with cooking oil. Set aside.
In a large, microwave-safe bowl (at least 2.5 quarts), combine the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and salt. Do not stir.
Microwave on high power for 4 minutes. Stop and stir thoroughly every 2 minutes, scraping down the sides and bottom of the bowl to ensure even cooking.
Carefully remove the bowl from the microwave. Stir in the sliced almonds, butter, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Return the bowl to the microwave and cook on high power for another 2-3 minutes, stopping to stir once in the middle. The mixture should reach a light caramel color.
Immediately remove the bowl from the microwave. Add the baking soda and stir quickly and vigorously until it’s fully incorporated. The mixture will foam up and lighten in color.
Working very quickly, pour the hot brittle mixture onto your prepared baking sheet. Using the back of a wooden spoon or a heat-resistant spatula, spread the brittle evenly to approximately ¼ inch thickness.
Allow the brittle to cool and set completely for at least 45 minutes at room temperature. Once hardened, break it into small, irregular pieces with your hands.

Notes

Safety First: Be extremely careful when making this recipe, as the sugar mixture and bowl will be very hot. Do not leave children unattended with the hot candy.
Bowl Size: Use a sufficiently large bowl (2.5 quarts or more) to prevent the mixture from overflowing when the baking soda is added and it foams up.
Microwave Variations: Microwave wattages differ, so cooking times are approximate. Watch for a light caramel color. If the mixture starts to rise too much, stop the microwave, stir, and continue in shorter bursts.
Easy Cleanup: To clean the sticky bowl, simply place it in the sink and fill it with warm water. Let it soak until the sugar dissolves, then wash as usual.
Storage: Store the cooled and broken almond brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 weeks. No refrigeration is needed unless your kitchen is exceptionally hot and humid.
Variations:
- Adjust cinnamon to taste, or substitute with other spices like nutmeg or cardamom.
- Experiment with different nuts such as peanuts, hazelnuts, pecans, or a mix.
- Consider a hint of orange or peppermint extract for a different flavor profile.
- Drizzle cooled brittle with melted chocolate for extra indulgence.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

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This post was first published on December 13, 2012. It was last updated on December 16, 2021, with fresh images, detailed step-by-step instructions, and valuable tips to enhance the reader’s experience. It’s wonderful to see how recipes evolve!

While updating this content, I couldn’t bring myself to remove this cherished image of my oldest child, now a college student, making this very recipe for his teachers years ago. The memories these old photos evoke are truly priceless, reminding me of the simple joys of sharing homemade treats and the growth of my little chefs.