Molasses Pretzel Snack (Microwaved)

From Taste of Home's Best Holiday Recipes. This is a great snack for your family or even a gift for friends, neighbors and teachers! And it's made in the microwave. . .whoopie!

• Ready In: 15 mins
• Serves: 12
• Yields: 6 cups

Ingredients

• 1⁄2 cup  packed brown sugar
• 1⁄4 cup butter, cubed
• 1  tablespoon corn syrup (I have subbed this out with extra molasses, honey and agave in the past, all with great results)
• 1  tablespoon molasses
• 1⁄4 teaspoon salt
• 1⁄4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1⁄4 teaspoon  almond extract (I have subbed out vanilla in the past)
• 5  cups  miniature pretzels
• 1  cup salted peanuts (unsalted is fine too)

Directions

1. In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the brown sugar, butter, corn syrup and molasses. Microwave, uncovered, on high for 45-50 seconds or until the butter is melted; stir.
2. Microwave 15-25 seconds longer or until mixture boils. Immediately stir in the salt, baking soda and extract (mixture will foam).
3. Stir in pretzels and peanuts. Microwave on high for 20-30 seconds or until pretzels and nuts are well coated, stirring twice.
4. Spread into a greased 15-in. x 10-in. x 1-in. pan. (If I use unsalted peanuts, I sprinkle some extra sea salt on the top of the mixture). Cool for 15 minutes, stirring twice. Store in an airtight container.