Candied walnuts are a delicious sweet and crunchy snack, perfect for enjoying on their own or adding to salads, desserts, or other dishes. Here’s a simple recipe to make them at home:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup walnuts halves or pieces
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Prepare a Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Set aside.
- Toast the Walnuts: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the walnuts for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are fragrant and lightly browned. Be careful not to burn them. Remove the toasted walnuts from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Candied Coating: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon (if using), and a pinch of salt. Stir to combine.
- Caramelize the Sugar: Cook the sugar mixture, stirring constantly, until it melts and turns into a thick, golden-brown caramel, about 2-3 minutes.
- Coat the Walnuts: Add the toasted walnuts to the caramelized sugar mixture in the skillet. Quickly stir to coat the walnuts evenly with the caramel.
- Transfer to Baking Sheet: Immediately transfer the candied walnuts to the prepared baking sheet, spreading them out in a single layer to prevent them from clumping together as they cool.
- Cool Completely: Allow the candied walnuts to cool completely at room temperature, about 15-20 minutes, until the caramel coating hardens.
- Break Apart and Serve: Once cooled, break apart any clusters of candied walnuts and transfer them to an airtight container for storage or enjoy them immediately.
Candied walnuts can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Enjoy these delicious treats as a snack, salad topping, or dessert garnish!