Joanne'S Microwave Peanut Brittle
A sweet and crunchy peanut brittle made quickly in the microwave, featuring caramelized sugar, roasted peanuts, vanilla, and a hint of salt, perfect for satisfying snack cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sugar and corn syrup, then add peanuts and salt.
- Microwave on High for 8 minutes, stirring at the end of 4 minutes.
- After cooking, add margarine and vanilla, then microwave on High for an additional 1 to 2 minutes.
- Add baking soda, stir well, and pour onto a buttered cookie sheet to cool and set.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use fresh raw peanuts, as older nuts can affect flavor and texture. If you want to experiment, try substituting the peanuts with almonds or cashews. Make sure to stir the mixture well after adding the baking soda, as it helps create that classic brittle texture. Always monitor your microwave closely to avoid burning.
Serving Suggestions
Peanut brittle makes a delightful snack on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. Consider serving it alongside a warm slice of Apple Gingerbread Cobbler to create a varied dessert platter. For a festive touch, break the brittle into pieces and use it to garnish cakes or cupcakes.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftover peanut brittle, place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you live in a humid area, consider refrigerating it to maintain its crunch. To reheat and restore crispness, place the brittle in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Joanne'S Microwave Peanut Brittle contains roughly 158 calories, with 1g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value) and calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 984mg per serving (43% 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 salted peanuts instead of raw peanuts?
Yes, you can use salted peanuts if you prefer a salty-sweet flavor, but be cautious with the added salt in the recipe. Adjust the salt to your taste to maintain the right balance.
What can I do if my peanut brittle is too soft?
If your peanut brittle turns out too soft, it may not have cooked long enough. For the next batch, ensure that you microwave it until it reaches a light amber color. Keep in mind that cooling time also affects the final texture.
Is there a way to add flavor variations to the peanut brittle?
Absolutely! You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra flavor kick. Additionally, try mixing in chocolate chips or drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled brittle for a delicious twist.
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).