Candied Peanuts
Sweet and crunchy candied peanuts with a caramelized sugar coating, perfect for snacking or garnishing desserts. Ideal for peanut lovers and those craving a sweet, nutty treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix water, sugar, and vanilla in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Add raw peanuts to the boiling mixture and cook, stirring constantly, until peanuts dry out.
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Spread the coated peanuts on a baking sheet.
- Bake for about 20 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes, until peanuts are roasted and caramelized.
- If peanuts don't seem roasted, continue baking longer, checking frequently.
Tips & Substitutions
Ensure the peanuts are fully coated in the sugar mixture for even caramelization. If you prefer a deeper flavor, consider substituting some of the granulated sugar with brown sugar. Stir continuously to prevent the mixture from scorching, and use a candy thermometer for precision. Experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
Candied peanuts make a delightful snack on their own or as a topping for ice cream or yogurt. They also pair wonderfully with a charcuterie board or can be used to enhance salads, such as a potato-fiddlehead salad. For a festive touch, consider serving them during gatherings or as a sweet treat in gift bags.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover candied peanuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Avoid refrigerating, as moisture can make them sticky. If you want to reheat them for a crispy texture, spread them on a baking sheet and warm them in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Candied Peanuts contains roughly 780 calories, with 21g protein, 90g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (97% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (75% of the Daily Value), and protein (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 928mg per serving (40% 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 roasted peanuts instead of raw?
Using roasted peanuts will alter the texture and flavor of the final product. Raw peanuts are essential for this recipe as they absorb the sugar mixture better, leading to that perfect caramelized coating. If you only have roasted peanuts, reduce cooking time and monitor closely to avoid burning.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the candied peanuts?
To adjust sweetness, you can reduce the amount of sugar slightly, but keep in mind that the sugar is crucial for the caramelization process. Alternatively, you can add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness with a savory note, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the candied peanuts.
Can I add other flavors or ingredients?
Absolutely! You can incorporate spices like cinnamon or cayenne for a hint of heat. For a unique twist, consider adding a splash of almond extract instead of vanilla. Just make sure any additional ingredients don't overly alter the liquid ratios in the recipe.
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).