Mixed Nut Brittle

1 can (12 ounce) or 2 cups salted roasted mixed nuts, less than 50 percent peanuts1 cup sugar 1/2 cup light corn syrup1 teaspoon butter1 teaspoon vanilla extract1 teaspoon baking sodaIn a 2-quart microwaveable bowl stir together the nuts, sugar and corn syrup. Microwave at high until the mixture is light brown, about 6-8 minutes. Stir well when halfway through.Grease a cookie sheet well with butter and set it aside. Grease the back of a spoon or offset spatula.Use oven mitts to remove the nut mixture from the microwave. It will be very hot. Stir in the butter and vanilla. Microwave on high 1 1/2 to 2 minutes. The mixture should be caramel colored.Use oven mitts to remove the nut mixture from the microwave oven. Add the baking soda and stir quickly until light and foamy and the baking soda is thoroughly mixed in. Pour onto the cookie sheet. Use the back of the spoon or the spatula to spread out the mixture as quickly as possible.Let the brittle stand until completely cool, about 30 minutes. Break into 2 to 3-inch pieces and serve.Makes about 32 pieces.Nutrition values per piece: 96 calories, 6 g fat (1 g saturated), 11 g carbohydrates, 1 g fiber, 2 g protein, 1 mg cholesterol, 88 mg sodium.Gerry Stec, Arlington Heights