Microwave Pecan Brittle
Crackling, buttery, and nutty, Microwave Pecan Brittle offers a delightful treat with rich caramel flavors and crunchy pecans. Perfect for gifting or sharing, this easy-to-make candy appeals to those who enjoy sweet, crispy confections with a homemade touch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish, stir together corn syrup and sugar.
- Cook on 100 percent power for 4 minutes.
- Stir in chopped pecans. Cook on 100 percent power for 3 minutes.
- Add butter and vanilla extract to the mixture and blend well.
- Cook on 100 percent power for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Add baking soda and stir until light and foamy.
- Pour the mixture onto a lightly greased cookie sheet.
- Allow to cool, then break into pieces.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the sugar is fully dissolved before adding the pecans. You can substitute light corn syrup with dark corn syrup for a richer flavor. If you're in a pinch, walnuts or almonds can replace pecans. Keep an eye on the cooking times, as microwaves vary in power, and adjust accordingly. This recipe is a great way to use up leftover nuts from your baking, like those from Fig Spice Cake.
Serving Suggestions
Pecan brittle makes an excellent snack on its own or as a sweet addition to a dessert platter. It pairs beautifully with coffee or tea and can be crumbled over ice cream or yogurt for added crunch. Consider serving it alongside desserts like Molasses Custard Tart or Icebox Coconut Cake for a delightful contrast in textures.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pecan brittle in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its crunchiness. Avoid storing it in the refrigerator as humidity 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 Pecan Brittle contains roughly 223 calories, with 1g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1239mg per serving (54% 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 pecans?
Yes, you can easily substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even cashews. Each nut will bring a different flavor and texture to the brittle, so choose your favorite or whatever you have on hand. Just ensure the nuts are chopped evenly for consistent cooking.
Why did my pecan brittle turn out chewy?
Chewy brittle may result from undercooking or not allowing it to cool completely before breaking. Make sure to follow the cooking times closely and allow the brittle to set on a greased sheet until completely cool before breaking it into pieces.
How can I make my pecan brittle more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of sea salt or a dash of cinnamon when mixing in the baking soda. You can also experiment with flavored extracts, such as almond or maple, to give your brittle a unique 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).