Peanut Brittle(Microwave Cooking)
Sweet and crunchy peanut brittle with rich caramel flavor and roasted peanuts, perfect for snacking or gifting, appealing to all ages and peanut lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place sugar, corn syrup, water, salt, and peanuts in a dish.
- Cook on high for 13 to 15 minutes or until syrup separates into threads and reaches hard crack stage (300°F) on a candy thermometer.
- Check temperature with a thermometer several times during the last few minutes, but do not leave the thermometer in while cooking.
- Stir in butter, baking soda, and vanilla just until light and bubbly.
- Pour the mixture onto a buttered cookie sheet.
- Let cool, then break into pieces.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure your peanut brittle turns out perfectly, use raw peanuts for the best flavor and texture. If you don’t have corn syrup, honey or agave syrup can be substituted, but this may slightly alter the taste. Stir the mixture gently to avoid crystallization. For a twist, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of sea salt before it sets, enhancing the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Peanut brittle makes a delightful snack on its own, but it can also be served as a topping for ice cream or crumbled over yogurt. Pair it with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a sweet afternoon treat. For an impressive dessert table, consider serving it alongside Del Miller's Double Good Berry Pie or Old Timey Chocolate Fudge.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. To keep it fresh, place parchment paper between layers. Avoid refrigerating, as this can cause the brittle to become sticky. If it becomes soft, you can briefly re-crisp it in a low oven for a few minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peanut Brittle(Microwave Cooking) contains roughly 259 calories, with 2g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 850mg per serving (37% 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 peanuts?
Yes, you can use roasted peanuts, but be aware that they will contribute a different flavor and may have a slightly different texture. If you choose to use roasted peanuts, reduce the cooking time slightly to prevent overcooking.
What should I do if my peanut brittle is too sticky?
If your peanut brittle turns out too sticky, it may not have reached the hard crack stage during cooking. Ensure you monitor the temperature closely next time, aiming for 300°F. If it’s already set but sticky, you can try placing it in the refrigerator for a brief period to help firm it up.
Can I add other nuts or ingredients to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can mix in other nuts like almonds or cashews for a different flavor. Dried fruits, such as cranberries or raisins, can also add a nice texture and sweetness. Just be cautious not to overload the mixture, as it may affect the brittleness.
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).