Peanut Brittle (Microwave)
Sweet and crunchy peanut brittle with rich caramel flavor and roasted peanuts, perfect for snacking or gifting, appealing to peanut lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Use a wooden spoon or non-melting utensils during preparation.
- Combine sugar, corn syrup, and butter in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Microwave on high until the mixture is bubbling and golden brown, about 3-4 minutes, stirring halfway.
- Quickly stir in peanuts and vanilla.
- Add baking soda and stir rapidly to incorporate, causing the mixture to bubble.
- Pour the mixture onto a greased baking sheet and spread evenly.
- Let it cool completely before breaking into pieces.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra crunch, try using roasted peanuts instead of raw. If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can substitute half the sugar with brown sugar. Make sure to use a large bowl since the mixture expands when cooking. Always be cautious when handling hot syrup, and consider using a candy thermometer to ensure perfect results.
Serving Suggestions
Peanut brittle makes a delightful snack on its own or can be served as a sweet addition to a dessert platter. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee, making it a perfect treat alongside Sugar-N-Spice Coffee Cake. Consider breaking it into smaller pieces and using it as a topping for ice cream or yogurt for a crunchy contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature. This will keep it fresh and crunchy for up to two weeks. Avoid refrigeration, as it can lead to a chewy texture. To reheat, place it in a warm oven for a few minutes to restore its original crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peanut Brittle (Microwave) contains roughly 409 calories, with 9g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 types of nuts in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute Virginia peanuts with cashews, almonds, or walnuts. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if you're using larger nuts, as they may take a bit longer to toast in the syrup.
What should I do if my peanut brittle is too hard?
If your peanut brittle turns out too hard, it might be due to overcooking the syrup. To soften it slightly, you can try placing it in a warm oven for a few minutes. Just be careful not to let it melt completely; you want to maintain its shape.
How can I tell when the mixture is ready in the microwave?
The mixture is ready when it becomes bubbling and turns a golden brown color, usually after about 3-4 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even cooking. Be attentive, as microwaves can vary in power.
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).