Microwave Munching Cashew Brittle
A crunchy, sweet cashew brittle made easily in the microwave, featuring caramelized sugar and buttery vanilla flavors, perfect for satisfying snack cravings or gifting.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 1 1/2-quart glass bowl, put sugar and corn syrup.
- Cook on High for 5 minutes.
- Add cashews and cook on High for 3 minutes.
- Add butter and vanilla, then cook on High for another 2 minutes.
- Add baking soda and quickly stir.
- Pour onto a lightly greased cookie sheet.
- Cool for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- When cool, break into small pieces and store in airtight containers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crunchier texture, toast the cashews lightly before adding them to the mixture. You can substitute the cashews with other nuts like almonds or peanuts for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a more complex taste, consider adding a pinch of sea salt or a sprinkle of cinnamon after mixing in the baking soda.
Serving Suggestions
This cashew brittle makes a delightful snack on its own, or you can serve it alongside coffee or tea for a sweet treat. It also pairs beautifully with Yule Log Pecan Roll for a festive dessert platter. For a creative twist, chop it up and sprinkle it over vanilla ice cream for added crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cashew brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. To maintain its crispiness, avoid refrigerating it, as moisture can make it chewy. If you need to soften it slightly for easier breaking, you can microwave it in short intervals, but be careful not to overheat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Munching Cashew Brittle contains roughly 579 calories, with 1g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% 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 a different type of syrup in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the white corn syrup with light or dark corn syrup, or even honey for a different flavor. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the sweetness and texture of the final product.
What if I don’t have a microwave-safe bowl?
If you don’t have a microwave-safe bowl, you can prepare this cashew brittle on the stovetop. Combine the ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently until it reaches the desired consistency before pouring it onto the cookie sheet.
How do I know when the brittle is done cooking?
The brittle is done when it reaches a golden brown color and has a thick, bubbling consistency. Keep a close eye on it during the last few minutes of cooking to prevent burning, as the sugar can quickly go from perfect to overcooked.
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).