Peanut Brittle(Microwave High Setting)
Sweet, crunchy peanut brittle with rich caramel flavor and toasted peanuts, perfect for sharing or gifting, appealing to those who enjoy homemade confections and nutty treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 1 1/2-quart casserole, stir together peanuts, sugar, syrup, and salt.
- Place in the microwave and cook for 7 to 8 minutes, stirring well after 4 minutes.
- After 8 minutes, add butter and vanilla, blending well.
- Return to the microwave and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until syrup is very hot and peanuts are lightly browned.
- Remove from microwave and add soda.
- Gently stir until light and foamy.
- Pour mixture onto a lightly greased cookie sheet.
- Let cool for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- Break into small pieces and store in an airtight container.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra crunch, try toasting the peanuts lightly before mixing them with the other ingredients. If you prefer a sweeter version, consider adding a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg. For fun variations, substitute almonds or cashews for the peanuts, or experiment with maple syrup instead of corn syrup. Keep an eye on the microwave to prevent burning, as every microwave can vary in power.
Serving Suggestions
Peanut brittle makes a delicious snack on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with coffee or hot chocolate, making it a perfect treat for gatherings. You can serve it as a festive dessert alongside Eclair Squares or use it as a topping for ice cream. For a fun gift, package the brittle in a decorative tin for holidays or special occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Once completely cooled, store the peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature. It can last for up to two weeks. To maintain its crispiness, avoid refrigerating it. If you need to reheat the brittle, place it on a baking sheet in a low oven for a few minutes to restore its texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peanut Brittle(Microwave High Setting) contains roughly 117 calories, with 1g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 0g 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 salted peanuts instead of raw peanuts?
Yes, you can use salted peanuts if you prefer a savory flavor. Just be mindful to adjust the salt in the recipe accordingly to avoid overly salty results. The balance of sweet and salty in peanut brittle is delightful, so find the right mix that suits your taste!
What should I do if my peanut brittle is too sticky?
If your peanut brittle turns out sticky, it may not have been cooked long enough. The sugar mixture needs to reach the hard crack stage for the right texture. You can reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop and then pour it onto a greased surface again to cool.
Can I add other flavors to the brittle?
Absolutely! You can incorporate flavors like almond extract or even a splash of bourbon for a unique twist. Adding chocolate drizzle on top after the brittle has cooled can also enhance the flavor. Feel free to get creative with your additions while maintaining the core recipe!
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).