Microwave Brittle
A quick and satisfying sweet treat, microwave brittle combines crunchy peanuts with caramelized sugar and a hint of vanilla. Its rich, nutty flavor makes it perfect for snacking or gifting. Easy to prepare with minimal equipment, it's ideal for those craving homemade candy in a hurry.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish, stir together sugar and syrup.
- Microwave at High for 4 minutes.
- Stir in peanuts.
- Microwave at High for 3 to 5 minutes, until light brown.
- Add butter and vanilla to syrup, blending well.
- Microwave at High for 1 to 2 minutes more.
- Add baking soda and stir until light and foamy.
- Pour mixture onto a lightly greased cookie sheet.
- Let cool.
- Break into small pieces and store in an airtight container.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nuttier flavor, try substituting some of the peanuts with almonds or cashews. If you prefer a less sweet brittle, reduce the sugar slightly. Make sure to keep an eye on the mixture while microwaving, as cooking times can vary based on wattage. For a unique twist, consider adding a pinch of sea salt or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra flavor boost.
Serving Suggestions
Microwave brittle makes a delightful snack on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with Katie Mae'S Cold-Oven Pound Cake for a sweet dessert platter. Consider serving it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or crumbling it over yogurt for a crunchy topping. It’s perfect for gifting during the holidays or as a treat during casual gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Avoid refrigerating it, as moisture can make it chewy. If you need to soften brittle that has become hard, you can microwave it for a few seconds, but be careful not to overheat it.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Brittle contains roughly 79 calories, with 1g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 624mg per serving (27% 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 in this brittle?
Yes, you can substitute the roasted salted peanuts with your favorite nuts, such as almonds, pecans, or cashews. Just ensure they are roasted and salted to achieve the best flavor and crunch in your brittle.
How can I make this recipe more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg along with the vanilla. You could also experiment with adding a splash of your favorite liqueur, like amaretto or bourbon, after microwaving to give it a unique twist.
What can I do if my brittle is too sticky?
If your brittle turns out sticky, it may not have reached the right temperature. Next time, ensure you microwave it long enough for the sugar to caramelize properly. If it's already made, you can try cooling it further and then breaking it into smaller pieces to help with the texture.
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).