Microwave Pecan Or Cashew Brittle
A crunchy, sweet, and nutty brittle with caramelized sugar and toasted pecans or cashews, perfect for gifting or a satisfying snack for caramel lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In greased 2-quart glass measure, cook sugar, corn syrup, and salt on High for 2 to 3 minutes, until boiling.
- Cook an additional 4 minutes. Stir in nuts, margarine or butter, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.
- Cook for 2 minutes. Immediately stir in baking soda until light and foamy.
- Quickly pour onto a greased cookie sheet and spread evenly.
- Allow to cool, then break into pieces.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crunchier texture, ensure the sugar mixture reaches a full boil before adding the nuts. If you're out of light corn syrup, honey or agave syrup can work as substitutes, but they may slightly alter the flavor. Experiment with different nuts, such as peanuts or almonds, to find your favorite combo. For added flavor, consider mixing in a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the brittle as a sweet snack or dessert alongside coffee or tea. It makes a delightful addition to holiday gift baskets or as a topping for ice cream. For a festive touch, pair it with Mother'S Christmas Cranberry Salad to balance the sweetness with tartness, creating a well-rounded dessert experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. To keep it fresh, place parchment paper between layers if stacking. If you need to reheat, microwave in short bursts, checking frequently, to avoid melting the chocolate if it's been added for flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Pecan Or Cashew Brittle contains roughly 277 calories, with 0g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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 types of nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! While pecans and cashews are traditional, feel free to experiment with other nuts like almonds or peanuts. Each nut will bring its unique flavor and texture to the brittle, making it a versatile treat.
What should I do if my brittle is too sticky?
If your brittle turns out sticky, it may not have been cooked long enough to reach the right temperature. To salvage it, return it to the microwave for short intervals until it firms up, but be cautious not to overcook it.
Can I add chocolate to the brittle?
Yes, adding chocolate can elevate the flavor! Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled brittle or mix in chocolate chips right after stirring in the baking soda for a delicious twist. Just ensure not to overheat the chocolate while doing so.
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).