Phillip Homer'S Microwave Peanut Brittle
Sweet and crunchy peanut brittle with rich caramelized flavor, perfect for sharing or as a homemade gift, appealing to those who enjoy classic candies with a nutty twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine peanuts, Karo syrup, sugar, and salt in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Cook on full power for 4 minutes.
- Stir and cook for an additional 4 minutes.
- Add butter and stir until blended.
- Cook for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add baking soda and vanilla, stirring until light and foamy.
- Pour onto a lightly greased cookie sheet and cool.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use fresh peanuts to enhance flavor and crunch. If you want a nuttier taste, consider roasting the peanuts before adding them to the mixture. You can substitute light corn syrup for Karo syrup if desired. Be cautious when adding baking soda, as it will cause the mixture to bubble up significantly. Ensure your microwave-safe bowl is large enough to prevent overflow during cooking.
Serving Suggestions
This microwave peanut brittle makes a delightful snack on its own, perfect for parties or as a sweet treat during movie night. It pairs beautifully with Mother'S Icebox Cookies for a varied dessert platter. For an extra touch, consider serving it alongside some hot cocoa or coffee, making it a comforting choice for chilly evenings.
Storage & Reheating
Store the peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. To keep it fresh, you can also wrap it in wax paper or place it in a resealable plastic bag. If you need to reheat, microwave in short intervals to soften slightly but avoid overheating, which can cause it to become sticky.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Phillip Homer'S Microwave Peanut Brittle contains roughly 348 calories, with 9g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 524mg per serving (23% 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 other nuts instead of peanuts?
Yes, you can substitute peanuts with almonds, cashews, or pecans if desired. Each nut will impart its unique flavor to the brittle. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly based on the size and type of nuts used, as some may require longer to achieve the perfect crunch.
What should I do if my brittle doesn't harden?
If your brittle remains soft, it may not have reached the right temperature during cooking. Ensure that the mixture reaches a hard crack stage, which is about 300°F (149°C). If it doesn't harden after cooling, you can re-melt it in the microwave and try again, adding a bit more sugar if needed.
How do I know when the brittle is done cooking?
The brittle is done when it turns a golden brown color and reaches the hard crack stage. You can test this by dropping a small amount into cold water; if it forms hard, brittle threads, it's ready. Keep an eye on it as it cooks, as microwave times can vary.
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).