"Nutcracker" Mixed-Nut Brittle in the Microwave

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What are the holidays without "The Nutcracker"? Inspired by all the mixed nuts that make their way into the house at this time of year, and by the many versions of "The Nutcracker" on TV and in live productions everywhere, enjoy this quick mixed nut brittle-type candy made in your microwave in minutes! Measure out all ingredients beforehand, because this recipe comes together very quickly.

Prep Time:
5 mins
Cook Time:
5 mins
Additional Time:
30 mins
Total Time:
40 mins
Servings:
12
Yield:
12 servings
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Ingredients

Original recipe (1X) yields 12 servings

  • 1 serving cooking spray

  • 1 cup white sugar

  • ½ cup light corn syrup

  • 1 ½ cups mixed raw nut halves and pieces

  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, or more as needed

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 1 teaspoon baking soda

  • ½ teaspoon coarse sea salt, or to taste (Optional)

Directions

  1. Butter a 10x15-inch baking sheet or line with parchment paper.

  2. Spray a heatproof spoon with cooking spray. Stir sugar and corn syrup together in a 2-quart microwave-safe bowl using the greased spoon. Microwave on high until very bubbly, 2 1/2 to 4 minutes.

  3. Quickly stir in nuts and butter. Continue microwaving until bubbles begin to take on a light caramel color, another 2 1/2 to 4 minutes. Watch carefully to make sure the nuts don't burn. Add vanilla extract and baking soda, stirring quickly until bubbly and combined.

  4. Immediately pour mixture onto the prepared sheet pan in a thin layer. Sprinkle with sea salt. Allow to cool and set before breaking into pieces, 30 to 40 minutes.

Cook's Notes:

This recipe was developed for a 1250-W microwave. For lower wattage microwaves, use the longer end of recommended cooking times.

The candy left in the bowl and on utensils will be very hard, but it will easily clean up with a water soak of several minutes.

Serving size is approximate.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

215 Calories
10g Fat
32g Carbs
3g Protein
Nutrition Facts
Servings Per Recipe 12
Calories 215
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 10g 13%
Saturated Fat 2g 9%
Cholesterol 3mg 1%
Sodium 189mg 8%
Total Carbohydrate 32g 11%
Dietary Fiber 2g 5%
Total Sugars 20g
Protein 3g 6%
Vitamin C 0mg 0%
Calcium 14mg 1%
Iron 2mg 8%
Potassium 104mg 2%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.