The Best Homemade Candied Walnuts Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
These candied walnuts are a delightful treat you’ll want to make again and again! They’re perfect for snacking, topping salads, or adding to desserts. You’ll love how easy they are to whip up with just a few pantry staples. Plus, the sweet, crunchy coating pairs perfectly with the rich, nutty flavor of the walnuts. Best of all, they make your kitchen smell amazing while they bake!
Recipe
Candied walnuts are a delightful treat that combines the rich, nutty flavor of walnuts with a sweet, crunchy coating. Perfect for snacking, adding to salads, or gifting, this simple recipe requires just a few ingredients and minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup walnuts
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
- In a non-stick skillet, combine the walnuts, sugar, salt, and water over medium heat.
- Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves and coats the walnuts evenly.
- Continue cooking for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sugar caramelizes and the walnuts turn golden brown.
- Remove from heat and spread the walnuts onto a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool completely.
Notes:
Be careful not to overcook, as the sugar can burn quickly. Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
Equipment:
Non-stick skillet, parchment paper, baking sheet
Time:
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
Makes 1 cup
Nutrition
Candied walnuts are a delightful treat, offering a mix of sweetness and crunch. Here’s a breakdown of their nutritional content per serving (approximately 1 oz or 28 grams):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Total Fat | 12 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 50 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugars | 8 g |
| Protein | 3 g |
What To Serve With It
I love adding candied walnuts to a cheese board, as they pair perfectly with creamy brie or sharp cheddar. They also make a fantastic topping for salads, adding a sweet crunch to greens like spinach or arugula. Whether I’m hosting or just cooking for myself, these walnuts always elevate my meals.
Cheese Pairings
When you’ve got a batch of candied walnuts ready, pairing them with cheese can take your snack game to the next level. I love combining them with creamy brie—the sweetness and crunch contrast beautifully with its smooth texture. Sharp cheddar works wonders too, balancing the walnuts’ rich flavor. Goat cheese is another favorite of mine; its tanginess makes the pairing feel elegant. If you’re feeling adventurous, try blue cheese—its bold flavor creates a dynamic combo. Don’t forget soft cheeses like Camembert or spreadable chèvre. Each pairing brings out something special, making your snack feel like a gourmet treat.
Salad Toppings
Though candied walnuts are delicious on their own, they can turn a simple salad into something extraordinary. I love tossing them over a bed of mixed greens with sliced apples, crumbled goat cheese, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The sweet crunch pairs perfectly with bitter arugula or earthy spinach, adding depth to every bite. For extra texture, try adding dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds. A light vinaigrette keeps the flavors balanced, letting the walnuts shine. Trust me, once you try this combo, you’ll never go back to plain salads. It’s a quick, effortless way to elevate your meal.
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