Hello there! Are you looking for a quick and easy way to add a bit of sweetness to your day? Look no further than this incredible candied walnuts recipe. Perfect as a snack or as a topping for your favorite dishes, these delicious walnuts are a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth.
But these candied walnuts aren’t just delicious – they’re also incredibly simple to make. With just a few basic ingredients and a little bit of time, you can whip up a batch of these sweet, nutty treats in no time. So why wait? Grab your ingredients and let’s get started!
Candied Walnuts Recipe
If you’re looking for a delicious and addictive snack, candied walnuts are a great option. They’re sweet, crunchy, and incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these tasty treats in no time. Follow these steps to make your own candied walnuts at home.
Ingredients Needed
The first thing you’ll need to do is gather your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups walnuts
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Steps to Follow
Now that you have your ingredients, it’s time to start cooking. Follow these steps:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spread the walnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for about 8 to 10 minutes, until lightly browned. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar and butter. Stir constantly until the sugar has melted and turned into a golden caramel color. This should take about 8 to 10 minutes.
- Once the sugar mixture has reached the right consistency, remove it from the heat and add the roasted walnuts. Stir until all the nuts are fully coated in the caramel mixture.
- Sprinkle the salt over the top of the walnuts and stir again to distribute evenly.
- Line another baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the coated walnuts out in a single layer on the baking sheet and let cool for about 10 minutes. The caramel will harden as it cools, creating a crunchy coating on the walnuts.
- Once the walnuts are fully cooled, use your hands to break them apart into smaller clusters. Serve and enjoy!
These candied walnuts will keep for several days in an airtight container at room temperature. They make a great snack any time of day, and are perfect for serving at parties or events. Try making a double batch if you’re planning to serve them to a crowd!
Variations to Try
If you want to switch up the flavor of your candied walnuts, there are plenty of variations you can try. Here are a few ideas:
- Add a teaspoon of cinnamon to the sugar mixture for a warm and spicy flavor.
- Drizzle a teaspoon of vanilla extract over the cooled walnuts for a sweet and fragrant twist.
- Substitute pecans or almonds for the walnuts for a different texture and taste.
Experiment with different flavors and nut combinations to find your perfect recipe!
Ways to Enjoy Candied Walnuts
Candied walnuts are a delicious sweet treat that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Here are some creative ideas on how to use them in different recipes and as a snack:
As a Salad Topper
One of the easiest ways to enjoy candied walnuts is by using them as a topping for your favorite salad. Not only will they give your salad a sweet crunch, but they also add some essential nutrients. Try pairing them with a savory vinaigrette, balsamic dressing, or sprinkling some crumbled blue cheese on top.
For a simple yet delicious salad recipe, mix some chopped lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and your favorite veggies together in a bowl. Add in some candied walnuts and toss with your dressing of choice. Voila! You have a healthy and tasty salad that will surely satisfy your cravings.
As a Snack
Candied walnuts also make for a great snack option at any time of the day. They are easy to put together and can be enjoyed on their own or mixed with other nuts, dried fruits, and seeds. They are also perfect for hosting a party or get-together.
To make your own candied walnuts as a snack, start by whisking together some egg whites, sugar, and cinnamon. Add the walnuts and coat them evenly with the mixture. Spread them out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 15-20 minutes at 350°F. Cool them and enjoy!
If you want to make a mix, combine your favorite nuts like almonds, pecans, and hazelnuts, with some dried cranberries and candied walnuts. Mix them together in a bowl and store in an airtight container. Take a handful of the mix whenever you feel like munching on something sweet and healthy.
As a Dessert Ingredient
Candied walnuts can also be used to add a sweet and crunchy surprise to your favorite dessert recipes. Try adding them to cakes, cupcakes, brownies, and ice cream for a delicious and decadent treat.
For example, you can prepare an easy walnut cake recipe by mixing some flour, baking powder, egg yolks, sugar, and some milk together. Add some chopped candied walnuts to the batter and bake in the oven for about 25-30 minutes at 350°F. Let it cool and enjoy with some whipped cream or frosting on top.
You can also use candied walnuts as a topping for your favorite ice cream flavor. Add some chopped walnuts on top of your scoop, drizzle some caramel sauce, and enjoy a dessert that is both sweet and crunchy.
In Conclusion
Candied walnuts are a versatile ingredient that can be used in many different recipes and snacks. They are easy to make and add a delicious sweet crunch to any dish. Whether you are looking for a salad topper, a mid-day snack, or a dessert ingredient, candied walnuts can be the perfect addition to your next meal.
Storing Candied Walnuts
How to Store
Once you’ve made yourself a batch of delicious candied walnuts, you want to make sure they stay fresh for as long as possible. It’s important to store your candied walnuts correctly to maintain their taste, texture, and crunch. The best option is to keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
When choosing an airtight container, go for something that secures tightly to prevent moisture or air from getting in. You can use a mason jar, a plastic container or a metal tin to store your sweet treats. Whatever container you choose, make sure it’s clean and dry first. Failing to keep your container dry and clean could lead to mold development that would ruin your nuts.
It’s best if you store the walnuts in one layer, without stacking them to prevent the nuts from sticking together. Also, keep them away from sunlight and heat. Don’t keep your candied walnuts in the fridge or the freezer because it can cause them to lose their crunchiness or take on moisture, which would damage their texture.
How to Freeze
If you want to keep your candied walnuts for a longer time, it’s possible to freeze them for up to six months. First, put the walnuts into a resealable freezer bag, squeeze out any excess air, and make sure the bag is tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn.
Freezing them will prevent them from losing their taste or texture due to exposure to heat and moisture. When you want to eat them, all you have to do is take them out of the freezer the night before you plan to use them, place them in a container, and let them defrost at room temperature. Don’t try to defrost them in the microwave, or thaw them in warm water as this could cause them to become mushy and unappetizing.
How to Reheat
It’s not unusual for your candied walnuts to lose their crunchiness over time. But have no fear as there is a simple way to revive them.
To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F. Take your walnuts out of the container and spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake them for five to ten minutes, checking every few minutes to ensure that they don’t burn. Once they’re heated through, take them out and let them cool for a few minutes before eating.
The reheating process is relatively easy and should be done right before serving to bring out the best taste, texture, and crunch of your candied walnuts.
These are the best ways to store, freeze, and reheat candied walnuts. By following these steps, you can have delicious candied walnuts ready to go whenever you want to indulge in this sweet treat. Enjoy!
Wrap Up Your Sweet Adventure
Hopefully, your taste buds are already tingling with all the candy-coated fun you can have with this candied walnut recipe. It’s a simple process that yields delicious and crunchy treats that can put a smile on anyone’s face. Whether you’re preparing them for a party, as a gift, or just because you crave something sweet, these candied nuts are always a perfect go-to snack.
Don’t forget to save this recipe in your favourites list for future reference because, believe me, once you give them a try, you’ll find yourself making them again and again. So, put on your apron, grab your favourite pan, and start cooking! Thank you for choosing this recipe to add some more sweetness into your day, and we hope to see you again soon!
FAQ
1. Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?
Sure! You can substitute walnuts with any other type of nuts, such as pecans, almonds, or even cashews.
2. How long will candied walnuts last?
When stored in an airtight container, candied walnuts can last for up to two weeks.
3. Can I use honey instead of sugar?
Yes, you can use honey as an alternative sweetener, but the consistency and flavour may differ slightly.
4. Can I add spices to the candied walnuts?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different spices, such as cinnamon, cayenne pepper, or even paprika.
5. Do I have to use a candy thermometer?
While using a candy thermometer can help ensure that the sugar syrup reaches the proper temperature, it’s not mandatory. You can determine the readiness of the syrup by observing its colour and consistency.
6. Can I use salted walnuts?
It’s not recommended, as the salt content can alter the overall taste and may lead to an overly salty snack.
7. Can I freeze candied walnuts?
Yes, you can freeze candied walnuts for up to three months.
8. Can I make candied walnuts in a microwave?
While it’s possible to make candied walnuts in a microwave, it’s not the recommended method as it can lead to uneven coating and burning.
9. Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?
Yes, you can use brown sugar, but keep in mind that it will give a different taste and colour to the candied walnuts.
10. Can I add other flavours to the candied walnuts?
Yes, you can add other flavours, such as vanilla extract, orange zest, or even cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist.
