Oh, the magic of candied walnuts! Imagine biting into a crunchy, sweet morsel that feels like a hug from the past, reminding you of chilly fairs and holiday gatherings. These little gems, almost like edible jewels, bring a touch of nostalgia and warmth to any dish—or even straight from the jar. If you ask me, they’re like the unexpected guest that turns a quiet evening into a delightful celebration.
Steps
- In a small non-stick skillet, combine 1/2 tablespoon of butter, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Heat the mixture over medium heat until the butter melts and the brown sugar starts to sizzle slightly at the edges while still appearing grainy.
- Add 1/2 cup of walnuts, either chopped or whole, into the skillet and stir them thoroughly to coat with the brown sugar mixture. Continue to cook and stir over medium heat for about 2-4 minutes until the brown sugar is completely melted and has formed a glossy coating on the walnuts. If the sugar isn’t melting as expected, increase the heat slightly.
- Once the sugar is melted, promptly remove the skillet from the heat to prevent the sugar from burning. Spread the candied walnuts on a sheet of parchment paper, ensuring they form a flat, single layer and are separated from each other.
- Allow the walnuts to cool completely, which should take about 10 minutes. As they cool, the candy coating will harden, resulting in crunchy, candied walnuts ready to be enjoyed.
Ingredients
- 1/2 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup walnuts (can be chopped or whole)
Nutritional Values
Calories: 270kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 22.76g | Sodium: 218.9mg | Fiber: 2g
FAQ
- What Ingredients Are Needed for Candied Walnuts?
- The simple candy coating for these walnuts requires just brown sugar, butter, and a pinch of salt. You can also experiment with additional flavorings like cayenne pepper, vanilla, cinnamon, or ginger.
- How Can I Use Candied Walnuts?
- Candied walnuts are versatile and can enhance many dishes. They are excellent for topping salads, ice cream, yogurt, oatmeal, or granola. Additionally, they can add a sweet crunch to a cheese board, perfect for holiday gatherings.
- How Long Do Candied Walnuts Stay Fresh?
- When stored properly in an airtight container, candied walnuts can remain fresh for about a month. Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing to maintain their texture and flavor.
- What Is the Best Way to Make Candied Walnuts?
- Start by heating butter, brown sugar, and salt in a non-stick skillet until melted and sizzling slightly. Add walnuts and stir until they are fully coated in the melted sugar. Spread them on parchment paper to cool, allowing the coating to harden.
- Can I Customize the Flavor of Candied Walnuts?
- Yes, you can customize the flavor by adding spices like cinnamon, ginger, or even a touch of cayenne pepper for heat. Vanilla extract can also add a pleasant aroma and taste.
Tips
- Monitor the Heat: When melting the brown sugar and butter, keep a close eye on the heat. If the sugar isn’t melting properly, increase the heat slightly, but be cautious as the sugar can quickly transition from melted to burned.
- Separate the Walnuts: Once you’ve coated the walnuts, spread them out on parchment paper in a single layer. Try to keep them as separate as possible to ensure they don’t clump together when they cool.
- Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to enhance the basic recipe with additional spices. A pinch of cayenne, cinnamon, ginger, or a dash of vanilla can add an exciting twist to the candied walnuts.
- Proper Storage: Ensure the walnuts are completely cool before storing them in an airtight container. This will help maintain their crunch and extend their shelf life to about a month.
Equipment
- Nonstick Fry Pan
- Parchment Paper
