Microwave P-Nut Brittle
A crunchy, sweet peanut brittle made quickly in the microwave, featuring caramelized sugar and toasted peanuts, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and sharing as a homemade treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar and Karo syrup in a large microwave-safe bowl.
- Microwave on High for 4 minutes.
- Remove and stir well. Add chopped dry roasted peanuts and salt.
- Return to microwave on High for 3 minutes.
- Remove and add 1 teaspoon of butter, then stir.
- Add 1 teaspoon vanilla and stir.
- Return to microwave and cook on High for 1 minute.
- Remove and quickly add 1 teaspoon baking soda, stirring rapidly.
- Pour the mixture into a greased cookie sheet and spread evenly.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use a large microwave-safe bowl to avoid overflow during cooking. If you prefer a nut-free version, substitute dry roasted peanuts with sunflower seeds. Ensure your cookie sheet is well-greased to prevent sticking. Mixing in a sprinkle of sea salt can enhance the flavor profile. Remember, microwave times may vary, so keep an eye on your mixture to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions
Peanut brittle makes a delightful treat on its own or can be served alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, consider pairing it with Christmas Coffee Cake during the holidays. This brittle also works well as a topping for ice cream or as a crunchy mix-in for yogurt.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its crunchiness. Avoid refrigerating, as moisture can make it chewy. If you need to reheat, place it in the microwave for a few seconds to soften slightly, but be careful not to melt it.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave P-Nut 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 867mg per serving (38% 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 instead of peanuts?
Yes, you can substitute peanuts with cashews, almonds, or walnuts for a different flavor. Just ensure the nuts are dry roasted for the best texture in your brittle.
What should I do if my mixture hardens too quickly?
If your mixture hardens before you can spread it, try reheating it in the microwave for a few seconds to soften it again. Stir well and pour it out quickly onto the greased sheet.
How do I know when the brittle is done?
The brittle is done when it turns a golden brown color and reaches a candy-like consistency. A quick test is to drop a small amount into cold water; it should harden immediately into a brittle shape.
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).