Candied almonds are a delightful treat, perfect for snacking, gifting, or adding a sweet crunch to salads and desserts.
With their irresistible combination of crunchy nuts and a sweet, caramelized coating, these almonds are a favorite at fairs and festivals.
Making them at home is easy and fills your kitchen with a wonderful aroma.
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 cups whole raw almonds
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt.
In a medium saucepan, combine the water and vanilla extract.
Bring to a boil over medium heat.
Add the almonds to the boiling water mixture, stirring constantly.
Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the water is mostly evaporated and the almonds are evenly coated with the syrup.
Pour the almonds into the sugar mixture and toss to coat thoroughly.
Ensure all the almonds are covered with the sugary mixture.
Spread the coated almonds in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, until the almonds are golden and the coating is set.
Remove from the oven and let cool completely on the baking sheet.
The almonds will harden as they cool.
Nutritional Facts
This Candied Almonds recipe yields approximately 16 servings (1/4 cup each).
Here are the nutritional facts per serving:
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 18g
- Sodium: 40mg
FAQ’s
Can I use other nuts instead of almonds?
Yes, this recipe works well with other nuts such as pecans, walnuts, or cashews. The cooking times may vary slightly depending on the type of nut used.
How should I store candied almonds?
Store candied almonds in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months.
Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?
You can reduce the amount of sugar, but the coating may not be as thick or crunchy. Adjusting the spices can help maintain flavor with less sugar.
Are candied almonds gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that all your ingredients, especially the vanilla extract, are certified gluten-free if you have sensitivities.
Can I add other spices to the coating?
Absolutely! You can add a pinch of nutmeg, cloves, or even a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. Experiment with your favorite spices to customize the flavor.