Microwave Pecan Or Peanut Brittle
A crunchy, sweet treat featuring toasted nuts and caramelized sugar, perfect for snacking or gifting. Quick to make using microwave, ideal for busy dessert lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place sugar, Karo syrup, and butter in a microwave-safe 2-quart bowl.
- Microwave on High for 5 minutes without stirring.
- Remove from microwave and stir in paraffin wax square.
- Stir in the desired nuts.
- Cook on High for an additional 6 minutes.
- Remove from microwave and stir in 2 teaspoons baking soda.
- Pour into pans sprayed with Pam.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the butter is fully melted before microwaving. You can substitute light corn syrup for dark Karo syrup if necessary, but it may alter the flavor slightly. For a unique twist, consider adding a pinch of sea salt or cinnamon to enhance the taste. Using a combination of pecans and peanuts can also yield a delightful mix of flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the brittle into bite-sized pieces for easy snacking or use it as a decorative topping for desserts like ice cream or cakes. It pairs beautifully with Almond Delights for a sweet treat platter or can be enjoyed alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, consider wrapping pieces in cellophane as gifts.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the brittle to cool completely at room temperature before storing. Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If the brittle becomes sticky, you can re-crisp it in a preheated oven at 250°F for about 10 minutes. Avoid refrigerating as it can absorb moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Pecan Or Peanut Brittle contains roughly 1117 calories, with 12g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 112g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (51% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value), and protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1238mg 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 salted nuts in this recipe?
Yes, using salted nuts can add a nice contrast to the sweetness of the brittle. Just be mindful of the overall saltiness and adjust accordingly to your taste.
What can I do if my brittle is too sticky?
If your brittle turns out sticky, it may not have been cooked long enough. Reheat it in the oven at a low temperature to dry it out slightly. Just be careful not to burn it, as it can become hard.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute. This will maintain the texture while making the recipe suitable for those on a dairy-free diet.
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).