Description
These Brown Sugar Candied Walnuts are a sweet and crunchy treat perfect for snacking, topping salads, or adding to desserts. The walnuts are cooked in a caramelized brown sugar syrup with a hint of cinnamon and vanilla, creating a deliciously sticky and flavorful coating. Ready in just 15 minutes, this easy recipe yields a delightful batch that can be enjoyed immediately or stored for later.
Ingredients
Scale
Walnuts
- 2 cups walnut halves
Brown Sugar Syrup
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside to cool the candied walnuts later.
- Make sugar mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, water, cinnamon (if using), and salt. Stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely and begins to bubble.
- Add walnuts: Stir in the walnut halves, making sure they are evenly coated with the sugar mixture.
- Cook walnuts: Continue cooking on medium heat, stirring frequently for 5 to 7 minutes until the mixture thickens and walnuts are evenly coated without burning the sugar.
- Add vanilla: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the vanilla extract to enhance flavor.
- Cool the walnuts: Spread the coated walnuts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, separating any that stick together.
- Set the coating: Allow the walnuts to cool completely on the baking sheet until the sugary coating hardens and becomes crisp.
- Store: Transfer the cooled candied walnuts to an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to two weeks.
Notes
- Make sure to stir constantly once the walnuts are added so the sugar doesn’t burn.
- Use parchment paper to easily remove the candied walnuts and prevent sticking.
- If the walnuts clump together while cooling, gently separate them once partially set.
- These candied walnuts make a great topping for salads, desserts, or a sweet snack on their own.
- For a nuttier flavor, lightly toast the walnuts beforehand but be careful not to burn them before candying.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
