Micro Brittle
Micro Brittle is a crunchy, sweet treat with rich pecan flavor, perfect for sharing or gifting, appealing to those who enjoy homemade confections with a caramelized crunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stir together salt, sugar, and corn syrup in a 1 1/2-quart microwave casserole.
- Cook in the microwave on High for 4 minutes. Add pecan pieces and stir well.
- Cook for an additional 4 minutes, reducing to 3 1/2 minutes if microwave is 800 watts.
- Add butter and vanilla; blend well.
- Return to microwave and cook for 1 more minute or until light and foamy.
- Add soda and pour immediately onto a greased cookie sheet; cool.
- Break into pieces once hardened and store in an airtight container.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider toasting the pecan pieces before adding them to the mixture. If you don't have corn syrup, light molasses or honey can be used as substitutes, but they may alter the final taste slightly. Keep an eye on the microwave cooking times, as wattage can vary; adjust accordingly for the perfect brittle consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Micro brittle makes a delightful snack on its own or can be served as a topping on desserts like ice cream or yogurt. It also pairs beautifully with Melissa'S Cake for a sweet treat platter. Consider adding it to gift baskets for friends or family, especially during holidays or special occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Once fully cooled and hardened, store the micro brittle in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain its crunchy texture. Avoid refrigerating, as this may cause the brittle to become sticky. For longer storage, consider separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Micro Brittle contains roughly 391 calories, with 5g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (13% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (11% of the Daily Value), and iron (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 727mg per serving (32% 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 different nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with other nuts like almonds, walnuts, or cashews. Each nut will bring its unique flavor and texture to the brittle, enhancing the overall taste. Just ensure the nuts are chopped into similar sizes for even cooking.
What if my brittle doesn't harden properly?
If your brittle remains soft, it may need additional cooking time. Return it to the microwave for short intervals until it reaches the desired hardness. Also, make sure the mixture reaches the right temperature to achieve that crunchy texture; it should be light and foamy before pouring.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can make this micro brittle vegan by substituting the butter with a plant-based alternative, such as coconut oil or vegan margarine. Ensure that the corn syrup you use is also vegan-friendly, as some brands may contain non-vegan ingredients.
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).