Name: Easy Candied Nuts
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: PT-487368H48M44S
Total time: PT-487368H48M44S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups mixed nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, pecans, or cashews); 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon butter; 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional); 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Graham crackers, fruit, or cookies for dipping (optional)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love Easy Candied Nuts for their irresistible sweetness and crunch. The combination of toasted nuts and a sugary glaze creates the perfect balance of flavor and texture. These nuts are versatile enough to be served as a snack, added to salads, sprinkled on oatmeal, or even gifted in a jar. Plus, they come together quickly with minimal effort, making them a great option for busy days or last-minute gatherings. The best part is you can customize the nuts and spices to your liking, making this recipe completely adaptable to your taste.

Ingredients

2 cups mixed nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, pecans, or cashews)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon butter
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Melt the butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the sugar, cinnamon (if using), and salt. Stir the mixture until the sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes smooth.
Coat the nuts: Add the mixed nuts to the saucepan and stir until the nuts are fully coated in the sugar and butter mixture.
Bake: Spread the coated nuts evenly onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 10-12 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking. Keep an eye on the nuts to avoid burning.
Cool and flavor: Once the nuts are golden and fragrant, remove them from the oven. Stir in the vanilla extract and let the nuts cool on the baking sheet. The sugar glaze will harden as they cool, giving the nuts their signature candied texture.
Serve and store: Once the nuts are completely cooled, serve immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 2 cups of candied nuts. Preparation time is around 5 minutes, with a cooking time of 10-12 minutes. Total time is approximately 15-20 minutes, making this an incredibly quick and easy treat.

Variations

Spiced nuts: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, nutmeg, or cloves for a spiced twist on candied nuts. Adjust the amount to suit your taste.
Sweet and salty: For a sweet and salty combination, sprinkle a little extra sea salt on top of the nuts as they cool.
Chocolate-coated nuts: Once the nuts have cooled, drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra indulgent treat.
Different nuts: Experiment with any nuts you prefer, such as pecans, cashews, or hazelnuts. You can also use a mix of nuts for variety.

Storage/Reheating

Store candied nuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Make sure they are fully cooled before storing them to prevent any moisture buildup that could affect the texture. These nuts are best when fresh, but they can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

If the nuts soften after storing, you can re-crisp them in the oven. Simply spread them out on a baking sheet and bake at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use raw nuts instead of roasted nuts?

Yes, you can use raw nuts in this recipe. They will roast and candy while baking, so no need for pre-roasting.

2. Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?

Yes, brown sugar can be substituted for granulated sugar for a richer, deeper flavor. It will create a slightly different texture but will still work beautifully.

3. Can I add other spices to the candied nuts?

Absolutely! You can add spices like nutmeg, ginger, or allspice to the sugar mixture to create your own flavor profile.

4. Can I make these nuts ahead of time?

Yes, these nuts can be made ahead of time. Simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature until ready to serve.

5. Can I use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar?

You can try using honey or maple syrup, but the consistency and texture may change slightly. You might need to adjust the cooking time to ensure the nuts coat evenly.

6. Can I make these candied nuts without butter?

Yes, you can substitute the butter with coconut oil or another fat of your choice to make the recipe dairy-free.

Conclusion

Easy Candied Nuts are a simple and delicious treat that anyone can make with just a few basic ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a gift idea, or a topping for salads and desserts, these sweet and crunchy nuts are the perfect choice. The best part is that you can customize them with your favorite nuts and spices, making them your own signature snack. With minimal time and effort, you’ll have a delightful treat that’s sure to satisfy your cravings!