Description
Save money with this easy recipe! Make candied walnuts at home. Assemble a batch on stovetop in just 10 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw walnuts (halves or pieces)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
RECIPE PREP: Line a large baking tray with parchment paper or a reusable silicone baking mat. Do NOT use waxed paper, as walnuts will stick to it. Pull out 2 rubber spatulas. Grease them with butter to prevent sticking. Put them aside.
- Heat a wide non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add walnuts, butter and sugar.
- Stir constantly, about 3 to 5 minutes. As the butter and sugar melt, they’ll create a thick syrup. Keep a close eye on the caramelized mixture. We don’t want it to burn!
- Once walnuts are fully coated, MOVE QUICKLY. Remove the pan from heat. Add vanilla extract. Because of the hot pan, the vanilla will bubble up. There may be some light popping. Swirl the pan to combine.
- Immediately transfer nuts to the lined baking tray. WORK FAST! With prepared rubber spatulas, quickly separate the nuts before they clump together. Cool 5 to 8 minutes, or until the coating hardens.
Notes
How to make lightly-toasted nuts: Want walnuts that are more tender and lighter in color? Start by melting butter and granulated sugar in the pan. Stir to combine. As the hot mixture starts to become golden, add the walnuts. Stir and flip walnuts until they’re completely coated in caramel. Transfer to a lined tray and separate with a pair of rubber-tipped tongs or rubber spatulas.
How to store glazed walnuts: Scoop them into an air-tight container. When stored on the countertop counter, these candied walnuts can stay fresh for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze for up to 1 month. They may lose a bit of crispness when defrosted, but will still taste amazing!
Other types of nuts you can glaze: Try almonds, pecans, cashews, Macadamia nuts, Brazil nuts, or mixed nuts. All caramelize well when using this stovetop recipe.
Ways to enjoy candied nuts: Spoon candied walnuts into a bowl. Serve them as a party snack! Sprinkle a handful over your favorite garden salad. Enjoy them as a topping for yogurt or ice cream. Add them to your favorite trail mix. Toss them into salted white popcorn. Use them for honey walnut shrimp!
- Prep Time: 5 Minutes
- Cook Time: 5 Minutes
- Category: Toppings
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American