Munching Peanut Brittle(Makes 1 Pound)
A crunchy, sweet and salty peanut brittle with rich caramel flavor, perfect for sharing or gifting; ideal for those who enjoy homemade confections with a nutty twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 1 1/2-quart casserole, stir together sugar and corn syrup.
- Microwave at High for 4 minutes.
- Stir in peanuts; microwave at High 3 to 5 minutes, until light brown.
- Add butter and vanilla to mixture, blending well.
- Microwave at High 1 to 2 minutes.
- Add baking soda; stir until light and fluffy.
- Quickly pour mixture onto a lightly greased or unbuttered nonstick coated cookie sheet.
- Let cool for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- When cool, break into small pieces and store in an airtight container.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the sugar and corn syrup are well combined before microwaving. You can substitute honey or agave syrup for the corn syrup, but this may alter the flavor slightly. If you prefer, use unsalted peanuts for a less salty treat, and add a pinch of sea salt to taste. Be mindful not to overcook the mixture; keep a close eye on it during the final microwaving stages.
Serving Suggestions
Munching Peanut Brittle makes a delightful snack on its own or as a topping for ice cream. It pairs beautifully with Taffy Sauce for a sweet dessert experience. Consider serving it alongside a warm beverage like coffee or tea for a cozy treat. For festive occasions, package pieces in decorative bags as homemade gifts.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. To prevent sticking, you can layer pieces between sheets of parchment paper. Avoid refrigerating, as this can cause the brittle to become chewy rather than crisp. If the pieces become sticky, you can briefly re-crisp them in a low oven for a few minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Munching Peanut Brittle(Makes 1 Pound) 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 624mg per serving (27% 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 different nuts in this peanut brittle recipe?
Yes, you can substitute other nuts such as almonds, cashews, or pecans for the peanuts. Just ensure they are roasted and salted for the best flavor. Keep in mind that different nuts may change the texture and flavor profile slightly.
What should I do if my peanut brittle doesn't set properly?
If your brittle remains sticky or soft, it may not have reached the right temperature during cooking. You can try reheating the mixture gently and adding a bit more baking soda to help it set. Alternatively, place the mixture back in the microwave for a short burst until it becomes bubbly and light brown again.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this peanut brittle vegan, simply replace the butter with a vegan butter alternative or coconut oil. Ensure that your corn syrup and peanuts are also free from any animal products. The vanilla extract is typically vegan, but always check the label to confirm.
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).