Peanut Brittle Goodness

I am always overjoyed to run across a holiday recipe that is naturally gluten free.

It's easy enough to modify a standard cookie or bar recipe, of course, but that usually involves some pricey flour mixes and a good bit of experimentation.

My grandma visited us for Thanksgiving, and while she was in town she gave me her secret peanut brittle recipe. I assumed that this recipe involved hours on the stove and a candy thermometer (both things that this new momma has no interest in!). Instead, I learned that it involves about 15 minutes and - get this - the microwave!

Don't tell anyone, though. They'll assume you slaved all night to bring them this goodness.

So, without further ado, I give you Grandma Ila's Peanut Brittle:

Ingredients:
1 c. white sugar
1/2 c. light corn syrup (like Karo)
1 c. peanuts (dry roasted)
1 t. vanilla
1 t. butter
1 t. baking soda

Directions:
1. Place white sugar and corn syrup in a bowl. Stir to combine.
2. Microwave sugar and syrup for 2 1/2 minutes. Stir. Microwave another 2 - 3 minutes.
3. Add peanuts and butter. Stir to combine. Microwave for 2 1/2 - 3 minutes.
4. Add vanilla. Stir to combine.
5. Add baking soda. Stir to combine. Watch mixture get all frothy and bubbly and awesome. Keep stirring.
6. Spread mixture on a buttered cookie sheet or one covered in tinfoil. Spread as thinly as you like your brittle.
7. Allow to cool for 15 minutes.
8. Break into pieces.
9. Devour. Or, if you have more willpower than I do, give away as a gift.

Depending on how powerful your microwave is, you may need to adjust your cooking times. My grandmother microwaves hers for 4 minutes at a time. But then, she also uses a microwave that still has a dial...

Thanks, grandma!