Sweet, crisp, and lightly spiced, these candied walnuts are one of those simple recipes that quickly becomes a favorite. A little cinnamon and vanilla give them warmth, while a touch of salt keeps the sweetness nicely balanced.
Set out a bowl for an easy appetizer, scatter them over salads, add them to a cheese board, or use them as a crunchy topping for roasted vegetables, oatmeal, or desserts. They also make a lovely homemade gift tucked into a pretty jar or small cellophane bag.
INGREDIENTS:
2 cups walnut halves
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons water
METHOD:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
In a large skillet, combine the sugar, butter, vanilla, cinnamon, salt, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the butter melts, the sugar dissolves, and the mixture begins to bubble.
Add the walnuts and cook, stirring constantly, for about 5 to 7 minutes. As the liquid cooks away, the sugar mixture will thicken and eventually begin to crystallize around the walnuts.
Continue stirring until the walnuts look dry and are evenly coated with the crystallized sugar mixture. Watch carefully toward the end of cooking, as the sugar can scorch quickly.
Immediately transfer the walnuts to the prepared baking sheet and spread them into a single layer. Separate any large clusters with a fork or spatula while they are still warm.
Allow to cool completely before serving or storing.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Cook’s Notes
- Constant stirring is important once the walnuts are added. Sugar can go from beautifully caramelized to scorched very quickly, so this is not the moment to walk away from the stove.
- Pecans or almonds can be substituted for the walnuts.
- For a sweet-and-spicy variation, add a small pinch of cayenne pepper along with the cinnamon.
- These candied walnuts also make an easy hostess or holiday gift. Package them in a small jar and add a handwritten label or ribbon.
