Microwave Cashew Brittle

1 can (9.5 ounces, 2 cups) roasted, salted cashew halves with pieces*
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup light corn syrup
1 teaspoon butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda

In a 2-quart microwave-safe bowl, (preferably a 2-quart glass measure with a handle*), stir together cashews, sugar and corn syrup. Microwave, uncovered, on high, until mixture is light brown, about 8 minutes, stirring well after 4 minutes. (Mixture will boil furiously.)

Meanwhile, grease a cookie sheet well with butter and set aside. (Or line the sheet with nonstick aluminium foil or a Silpat mat; neither of these needs butter.)

Use oven mitts to remove nut mixture from microwave. (It will be very hot.) Stir in butter and vanilla. Continue to microwave, on high, 2 more minutes. Mixture should be caramel colored.

Use oven mitts to remove mixture from microwave. Add baking soda. Stir quickly until mixture is light and foamy and baking soda is thoroughly mixed in. Immediately (and very carefully) pour brittle out onto prepared cookie sheet and, working quickly, use the back of a spoon to spread out slightly. The brittle will be fairly thick. (Cleanup tip: Immediately put glass measure and spoons into the sink and run hot water into it; let stand for 10 minutes or until ready to run through dishwasher.)

Let cookie sheet with brittle stand until completely cool, about 30 minutes. Break into pieces. Store in an airtight container, preferably a tin, up to 2 weeks depending on humidity.

* Notes

If using whole cashews, break them into halves before starting. Some cashew brands contain only 8.5 ounces, but this will work fine, too.

Hot candy will be easier to pour out onto a cookie sheet if you use a 2-quart glass measure that has a handle, such as Pyrex.

This recipe was tested using a 600-watt oven. Adjust cooking times (more or less) depending on your oven’s wattage.

Here's a brittle testimonial from Kathy L.S. Bowerman of Raleigh, NC:

"The cashew brittle I make from your recipe is a now a long-standing holiday tradition and absolute requirement among family and friends. I also send it to my daughter (who lives in London) on her birthday and to her husband on his birthday -- but I send a tin to both of them on each occasion so they don't have to share!"

Approximate Values Per Brittle Piece: 177 calories (40% from fat), 8 g fat (2 g saturated), 1 mg cholesterol, 3 g protein, 25 g carbohydrates, 1 g dietary fiber, 200 mg sodium

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