The Easiest Candied Walnuts Recipe: Sweet Crunchy Goodness

Crafting delightful easy candied walnuts brings pure joy to any kitchen adventure.

Nuts coated in caramelized sugar create an irresistible snack perfect for munching.

Sweet and crunchy, these treats transform ordinary moments into delectable experiences.

Minimal ingredients and simple steps make this recipe accessible to everyone.

Crisp caramelization delivers a golden-brown coating that seals in rich nutty flavors.

Kitchen novices and seasoned cooks alike will appreciate how quickly these come together.

You’ll find yourself reaching for handful after handful of these addictive morsels.

Prepare to be amazed by how such a quick recipe can become your new favorite snack.

FAQs

• Are candied walnuts healthy?

While delicious, candied walnuts are a treat high in sugar and calories. They contain healthy fats and protein from walnuts but should be enjoyed in moderation as an occasional snack.

• Can I use other nuts for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute walnuts with pecans, almonds, or cashews. Each nut will bring a unique flavor and texture to the candied recipe.

• How long will candied walnuts stay fresh?

When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, candied walnuts will remain crisp and tasty for about 1-2 weeks.

• Do I need any special equipment to make candied walnuts?

No, you only need a non-stick skillet, wooden spoon, and parchment paper. Most home cooks already have these basic kitchen tools.

Candied Walnuts Sweet Crunch Addiction

• Perfect for topping salads, desserts, or enjoying as a standalone treat, these candied walnuts add a sweet and crunchy element to multiple dishes.
• The combination of caramelized sugar, butter, and vanilla creates an irresistible coating that transforms plain walnuts into a gourmet-style snack everyone will love.
• Using basic pantry ingredients and requiring just one skillet, this recipe offers a cost-effective way to enjoy a restaurant-quality snack at home.

What You Need for Easy Candied Walnuts

• Walnuts: Fresh nuts with a rich, buttery flavor that become crispy and sweet when candied.
• Sugar: Provides sweetness and creates a glossy caramelized coating for the walnuts.

• Butter: Adds richness and helps create a smooth, even glaze on the walnuts.
• Vanilla Extract: Brings a warm, aromatic depth to the sweet candied coating.

• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness of the candied walnuts.

How to Make Crispy Candied Walnuts

Step 1: Toast Nutty Delights

Place a non-stick skillet on medium heat.

Scatter walnuts across the surface and gently move them around until they become fragrant and develop a light golden color, releasing their rich, warm aroma.

Step 2: Create Magical Caramel Coating

• Sugar
• Butter
• Vanilla extract
• Salt

Combine all ingredients in the same skillet.

Stir continuously, watching the mixture transform into a glistening, smooth caramel-like glaze.

The sugar will melt and bubble, creating a luxurious sauce that coats everything beautifully.

Step 3: Embrace the Sweet Transformation

Pour the toasted walnuts into the shimmering glaze.

Twirl and toss them with a spatula, ensuring every single walnut gets completely enveloped in the sweet, sticky goodness.

Each nut should be generously and evenly covered.

Step 4: Chill and Unleash

Spread the candied walnuts onto a parchment paper-lined surface.

Allow them to cool and set, watching as the glaze hardens into a delicate, crispy shell.

Once completely cooled, break apart any clusters and serve as a delectable snack or stunning salad topper.

Tricks for Perfectly Coated Candied Walnuts

• Stir walnuts continuously to prevent burning and ensure even golden-brown color.
• Watch the heat closely to avoid burning the sugar, which can create a bitter taste.
• Separate candied walnuts immediately on parchment paper to prevent clumping and maintain crispy texture.
• Sprinkle cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the glaze for an extra flavor dimension.

Storing and Serving Candied Walnuts

• Store cooled candied walnuts in an airtight container lined with parchment paper for up to 2 weeks. Keep them away from moisture to maintain crispness.
• Place walnuts in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag, removing excess air. They'll stay fresh for 1-2 months without losing their sweet crunch.
• Keep in a sealed container in a cool, dry place for 5-7 days. Avoid direct sunlight or humid areas to prevent sugar from becoming sticky.
• Quickly restore crispness by spreading walnuts on a baking sheet and warming in a preheated oven at 300°F for 3-5 minutes. Let cool completely before serving.

Snack Pairings for Candied Walnuts

• Elevate Sweet Crunch: Pair these candied walnuts with creamy blue cheese for a delightful flavor contrast that balances sweet and tangy notes.
• Salad Sensation: Sprinkle these glazed gems over mixed green salads with goat cheese and balsamic vinaigrette to add a delectable crunch and caramelized sweetness.
• Wine Harmony: Complement the nutty, sugary treat with a crisp Riesling or a smooth Pinot Noir that echoes the walnuts' rich, caramelized undertones.
• Dessert Boost: Crown vanilla ice cream or Greek yogurt with these candied walnuts for an instant texture upgrade and indulgent touch.

Creative Uses for Candied Walnuts

• Maple Pecan Swap: Replace walnuts with pecans and use maple syrup instead of sugar for a rich, woodsy flavor profile.
• Cinnamon Spice Edition: Add ground cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg to the glaze for warm, aromatic candied nuts.
• Vegan Friendly Version: Substitute butter with coconut oil and use coconut sugar for a plant-based alternative that maintains sweetness.
• Low-Carb Keto Option: Use monk fruit sweetener instead of sugar and toast nuts in almond flour for a diabetic-friendly and low-carbohydrate treat.

Easy Candied Walnuts Recipe

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4.8 from 8 reviews

• Total Time: 13 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Sweet, caramelized magic happens when cinnamon-spiced walnuts dance in golden sugar syrup. Crisp, glossy nuts make perfect snacks or salad toppers that crunch with irresistible candied charm.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 1 cup (240 ml) walnuts
• 1/4 cup (50 g) sugar

Seasoning Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) butter
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) vanilla extract
• 1 pinch salt

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Instructions

1. Warm a dry skillet over medium heat, allowing the surface to become evenly heated.
2. Gently scatter walnuts across the skillet, stirring periodically to prevent burning and ensure uniform toasting for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden.
3. Introduce sugar, butter, vanilla extract, and salt directly into the skillet with the toasted walnuts, maintaining continuous stirring to prevent sugar from crystallizing.
4. Continue mixing until the sugar transforms into a smooth, glossy caramel-like coating, approximately 2-3 minutes, ensuring all nuts are thoroughly enveloped in the sweet mixture.
5. Immediately transfer the glistening candied walnuts onto a parchment-lined surface, spreading them apart to prevent clumping and allow rapid cooling.
6. Let the walnuts rest at room temperature for 10-15 minutes, during which the glaze will harden and create a crisp, sweet shell around each nut.
7. Once completely cooled and solidified, break apart any clusters and serve as a delectable snack or elegant salad topping.

Notes

• Toast walnuts carefully to prevent burning, watching them closely and stirring frequently to ensure even golden-brown color without scorching.
• Create perfect caramelization by using medium heat and constantly stirring the sugar mixture to avoid crystallization or burning.
• Separate cooled candied walnuts immediately after spreading to prevent them from sticking together in large clumps.
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for maximum crispness and prevent moisture from making them soggy.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Category: Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 274
• Sugar: 14 g
• Sodium: 1 mg
• Fat: 26 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 21 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 15 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Cholesterol: 5 mg