Candy Flavored Walnuts
Sweet, crunchy candied walnuts with a rich caramel coating, perfect for snacking, gifting, or topping desserts. Deliciously nutty with a hint of vanilla flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, sour cream, and condensed milk in a saucepan.
- Stir over low heat until the sugar melts.
- Bring to a boil and cook until the mixture reaches 238°F (soft ball stage).
- Remove from heat.
- Add the nuts to the mixture.
- Stir until the nuts are coated and creamy.
- Turn out onto waxed paper and separate the nuts to cool.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the sugar mixture while cooking. If you want a different nutty flavor, you can substitute pecans for walnuts. Make sure to stir continuously to prevent the mixture from burning as it cooks. Using a candy thermometer is recommended to ensure accuracy at the soft ball stage.
Serving Suggestions
These candy-flavored walnuts make a delightful snack on their own, or you can use them as a topping for salads, such as in the Lime And Cream Cheese Salad. They also pair well with desserts, adding a sweet crunch to ice cream or yogurt. For a festive touch, serve them in small bowls during gatherings or as a gift in decorative jars.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover candy-coated walnuts in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for about a week. Avoid refrigerating them, as this can affect their texture. If they become sticky, simply allow them to sit at room temperature for a short time before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Candy Flavored Walnuts contains roughly 2062 calories, with 49g protein, 118g carbohydrates, and 168g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (99% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (59% of the Daily Value), and calcium (54% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. It also contributes 16g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 other nuts for this recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use other nuts such as almonds or cashews in place of walnuts. Each nut will bring a unique flavor and texture to the candy-coated treat. Just ensure that you adjust the cooking time if needed, as some nuts may cook faster than walnuts.
What should I do if my sugar mixture crystallizes?
If your sugar mixture crystallizes, try adding a small amount of water and gently reheating it while stirring until it becomes smooth again. Make sure to keep the heat low and avoid stirring too vigorously once it reaches the soft ball stage to prevent crystallization.
Can I make these in advance for a party?
Absolutely! You can prepare these candy-flavored walnuts a few days ahead of your event. Just store them properly in an airtight container. They make a great addition to party trays or can be served as a sweet treat with coffee or tea.
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).