Ten Minute Peanut Brittle
A quick, crunchy peanut brittle with rich caramel flavors and roasted peanuts, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, syrup, and salt in a 2-quart Pyrex dish. Microwave on High for 4 1/2 minutes.
- Stir in peanuts. Microwave on High for 2 1/2 minutes.
- Stir the mixture. Microwave for 1 more minute.
- Stir in vanilla, margarine, and baking soda and beat until light and foamy.
- Spread on a buttered cookie sheet.
- When cool, break into pieces.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure that the peanuts are roasted and unsalted before adding them to the mixture. If you prefer a nut-free version, you can substitute the peanuts with sunflower seeds. Keep an eye on the microwave as cooking times may vary; it's crucial to avoid burning the sugar mixture. Additionally, using a silicone spatula can help in mixing without sticking.
Serving Suggestions
Peanut brittle makes a delightful snack on its own or can be served as a sweet treat alongside coffee or tea. It pairs beautifully with Apple Pie (The Best) for a classic dessert spread. Consider breaking it into smaller pieces for party platters or as a gift in decorative bags. It also complements savory dishes like Barbecue Italian Beef if you're looking for a sweet-savory combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its crunch. If stored properly, it can last for up to two weeks. Avoid refrigeration as it can cause the brittle to become sticky. If you need to soften it for any reason, place it in a warm oven for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ten Minute Peanut Brittle contains roughly 228 calories, with 1g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1754mg per serving (76% 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 types of nuts in this recipe?
Yes, you can definitely substitute peanuts with other nuts such as almonds, cashews, or walnuts. Just make sure they are roasted and unsalted for the best flavor. Adjust the cooking time slightly if using larger or denser nuts, as they may require a bit more time to incorporate into the mixture.
What should I do if my peanut brittle is too sticky?
If your peanut brittle turns out too sticky, it may not have been cooked long enough to reach the right temperature. To remedy this, you can place it back in the microwave for 30-second intervals until it hardens. Make sure to stir well to avoid burning. Alternatively, you can try re-melting it gently in a saucepan and re-spreading it.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! To make this peanut brittle vegan, simply replace the margarine with a plant-based butter alternative. Ensure that all other ingredients, particularly the sugar and corn syrup, are free from animal products. Also, check that your vanilla extract is pure and vegan-friendly for the best results in flavor.
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).