Black Walnut Candy
Rich black walnut candy combines creamy caramel-like sweetness with crunchy black walnuts, perfect for those with a sweet tooth and a love of nutty flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil sugar, milk, soda, and butter until it foams a soft-ball in cold water.
- Remove from heat.
- Add black walnuts and vanilla. Beat until creamy.
- Pour into a buttered pan or dish and cool before cutting into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your sugar mixture reaches the soft-ball stage by testing it in cold water. If you don’t have black walnuts, you can substitute with pecans for a milder flavor. Be cautious while beating the mixture after adding walnuts and vanilla; over-beating can make the candy gritty. To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the candy into small squares for serving, and consider pairing it with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. It also makes a great addition to gift baskets, especially around the holidays. For a unique twist, serve it alongside Tang Clouds for an interesting flavor contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Black Walnut Candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it, but allow it to come to room temperature before serving to maintain its texture. Avoid freezing, as it may affect the candy's consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Black Walnut Candy contains roughly 106 calories, with 2g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of nuts in this recipe?
Yes, while black walnuts give a distinct flavor, you can use other nuts like pecans or almonds if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the taste will vary; pecans will be milder compared to the robust flavor of black walnuts.
What if my candy doesn't set properly?
If your candy doesn't set, it may not have reached the soft-ball stage. You can try re-cooking it by adding a little more sugar and milk, bringing it back to the desired temperature. Always check the temperature with a candy thermometer for accurate results.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version of Black Walnut Candy, substitute dairy milk with almond or oat milk and replace butter with a plant-based margarine. Make sure the sugar used is vegan-friendly, as some sugars are processed with bone char.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).