Candied walnuts are a delicious treat that adds a sweet crunch to salads, desserts, or just as a snack. Making them at home is easier than you think, and the results are far better than store-bought versions. Ready to learn how to make candied walnuts? Let’s dive in!
What Are Candied Walnuts?
Candied walnuts are walnuts coated with a sweet, crunchy sugar glaze, often flavored with cinnamon or spices. They can be baked or cooked on the stove, resulting in a delightful snack or topping that stays crispy for weeks. You can enjoy them on salads, ice cream, oatmeal, or just by themselves.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– Raw walnut halves or pieces (about 1 cup)
– Granulated sugar (¼ cup)
– Butter (1 tablespoon) or egg white (1, depending on method)
– Cinnamon (¼ teaspoon, optional)
– Salt (¼ teaspoon)
– Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon, optional)
– Optional spices: cayenne pepper or ground ginger for a kick
Two Easy Methods to Make Candied Walnuts
1. Stovetop Method (Quick and Flavorful)
This method uses butter and sugar cooked together to coat the walnuts.
Steps:
– Prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
– In a non-stick skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
– Add ¼ cup granulated sugar and stir until melted and combined.
– Add walnuts, ¼ teaspoon salt, cinnamon, and optional cayenne pepper.
– Stir frequently for 3 to 5 minutes until walnuts are fully coated and the sugar mixture is glossy.
– Quickly spread the walnuts on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer to cool and harden (about 10 minutes).
This method takes about 5-10 minutes and yields crunchy, flavorful candied walnuts perfect for snacking or topping dishes.
2. Oven-Baked Method (Longer, Crispy, and Shelf-Stable)
This approach uses egg whites to help the sugar and spices stick and requires baking at a low temperature.
Steps:
– Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C) and grease a baking sheet.
– Whisk 1 egg white with 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until frothy.
– Toss 1 cup raw walnuts in the egg white mixture until coated.
– Mix ¼ cup sugar, ¼ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon cinnamon in a bowl.
– Sprinkle the sugar mixture over the walnuts and stir to coat evenly.
– Spread walnuts evenly on the baking sheet.
– Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even coating and crispiness.
– Let cool on the pan; the walnuts will harden as they cool.
This method produces candied walnuts that stay crispy for weeks and are great for gifts or long-term storage.
Tips for Perfect Candied Walnuts
– Use raw, unsalted walnuts for the best flavor and control over saltiness.
– Don’t rush the baking time in the oven method; the full hour is key to crispiness.
– Stir frequently during cooking to prevent burning and ensure even coating.
– Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground ginger for a spicy twist.
– Store cooled candied walnuts in an airtight container; they keep well for up to two weeks or can be frozen for longer storage.
Delicious Ways to Enjoy Candied Walnuts
– Toss them into green salads for a sweet crunch.
– Sprinkle over oatmeal or yogurt bowls.
– Use as a topping on ice cream or pancakes.
– Snack on them straight from the jar.
– Package as homemade gifts during holidays.
Candied walnuts are versatile, easy to make, and add a delightful touch to many dishes.
Candied walnuts bring a perfect balance of sweet and crunchy to your snacks and meals. With just a few simple ingredients and either a quick stovetop or oven method, you can enjoy this tasty treat anytime. Give it a try and watch how they become your new favorite snack!