Microwave P'Nut Brittle
A crunchy, sweet peanut brittle made quickly in the microwave, combining toasted peanuts with caramelized sugar and vanilla for a delightful treat perfect for snacking or gifting.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stir together peanuts, sugar, light Karo syrup, and salt in a 1 1/2-quart casserole.
- Microwave for 4 minutes and stir.
- Microwave for an additional 3 to 4 minutes.
- Stir in butter or margarine and vanilla; microwave for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Stir in baking soda.
- Pour the mixture onto a lightly greased cookie sheet and cool for 30 minutes.
- Break into pieces and serve or store.
Tips & Substitutions
For an enhanced flavor, consider toasting the raw peanuts before adding them to the mixture. If you prefer a different nut, almonds work well as a substitute. Be cautious with the microwave timing, as every microwave varies; keep an eye on the mixture to prevent burning. Adding a pinch of cinnamon can also elevate the taste.
Serving Suggestions
Microwave P'Nut Brittle makes an excellent standalone treat, perfect for parties or holiday gatherings. It pairs beautifully with a warm cup of coffee or tea. For a fun twist, you can serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or use it as a topping for desserts like ice cream sundaes or brownie sundaes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. To keep it fresh and prevent sticking, you can layer sheets of wax paper between the pieces. Reheating is not necessary; simply enjoy it as a crunchy snack straight from the container.
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).
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 roasted peanuts instead of raw?
Yes, you can use roasted peanuts for this recipe, but keep in mind that they will add a slightly different flavor and texture. If using roasted peanuts, reduce the microwave time slightly to avoid overcooking.
What if I don't have light Karo syrup?
If you don't have light Karo syrup, you can substitute it with honey or agave syrup. Both will add sweetness and moisture, though they may slightly alter the flavor of the brittle.
How do I know when the brittle is done cooking?
The brittle is done cooking when it becomes a golden brown color and reaches a hard crack stage. You can test this by dropping a small amount into cold water; it should harden immediately. Keep a close watch to avoid burning!
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).