Bernie'S Munching Peanut Brittle
A crunchy, sweet peanut brittle with rich caramelized sugar and roasted peanuts, perfect for sharing or gifting to candy lovers and those with a sweet tooth.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sugar and corn syrup in a 1 and 1/2 quart microwave container.
- Microwave on high power (10) for 3 minutes and 10 seconds.
- Add dry roasted peanuts and microwave for another 3 minutes and 10 seconds.
- Stir in butter and vanilla and microwave for 55 seconds.
- Add baking soda and stir vigorously for 30 seconds until foamy.
- Quickly pour mixture onto a non-stick or lightly buttered cookie sheet.
- Place the cookie sheet on a rack to allow air circulation around it.
- Let cool for 30 minutes.
- Loosen the edges of the brittle with a table knife.
- Gently turn over the brittle.
- Gently tap with the handle end of a knife and break into pieces.
Tips & Substitutions
Ensure your microwave container is large enough to prevent overflowing during cooking. If you prefer a nut-free version, consider replacing peanuts with roasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. For a touch of warmth, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture before pouring it onto the cookie sheet. Be cautious when handling the hot mixture, as it can be very sticky.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the peanut brittle as a sweet treat alongside coffee or tea for an enjoyable afternoon snack. It also makes a delightful gift when packaged in decorative boxes or bags. For a fun twist, consider crumbling the brittle over vanilla ice cream or serving it alongside a slice of Yum Yum Torte for a delicious dessert combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store the peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its crunchiness. It can last for up to two weeks if kept properly. Avoid refrigeration, as moisture can cause it to become chewy. If you need to reheat, place it in a warm oven for a few minutes to restore some crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bernie'S Munching Peanut Brittle contains roughly 632 calories, with 6g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (97% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other nuts in this recipe instead of peanuts?
Yes, you can substitute dry roasted unsalted peanuts with other nuts like almonds, cashews, or walnuts. Just ensure they are roasted and unsalted to maintain the flavor balance. Each nut will bring its unique taste and texture, so feel free to experiment!
What should I do if my peanut brittle is too sticky?
If your peanut brittle turns out too sticky, it may not have cooked long enough. Ensure that the sugar mixture reaches the hard crack stage. If it's already made, try refrigerating it for a short while to help firm it up, but this may affect texture. Adjust cooking times in future batches for better results.
Can I make this peanut brittle in advance?
Absolutely! Peanut brittle can be made ahead of time and stored for later. Just ensure it is completely cooled before storing in an airtight container. This makes it a great option for holiday treats or party favors, as it can be prepared well in advance.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).