Candy Walnuts Or Pecans
Sweet and spicy candied walnuts or pecans coated with cinnamon and sugar, perfect for snacking, salads, or gift jars, offering a crunchy, caramelized treat with warm flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil sugar, cinnamon, salt, and canned milk together to soft ball stage (236°F), stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat; add vanilla and nuts; stir until nuts are well coated.
- Quickly turn out onto waxed paper and separate the nuts.
- Let sit until hardened.
Tips & Substitutions
For perfectly candied nuts, ensure you reach the soft ball stage (236°F) without burning the sugar mixture. If you prefer, you can substitute the walnuts or pecans with almonds or cashews for a different flavor profile. Adding a pinch of nutmeg can also enhance the flavor. Stir consistently to avoid sticking and ensure even coating. For a festive twist, consider incorporating a splash of vanilla extract or almond extract into the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
These candy walnuts or pecans make a delightful snack on their own, or you can use them as a topping for salads or desserts. They pair beautifully with Creamy Hot Chocolate Sauce for a decadent treat. Consider serving them alongside cheese platters or using them in Japanese Fruit Nut Pies(2 Pies) for added crunch and flavor. They are also perfect for gifting during the holidays.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover candy nuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you live in a humid area, refrigeration may be necessary to keep them crisp. To refresh them, simply spread the nuts on a baking sheet and warm in a 300°F oven for about 5-10 minutes, allowing them to regain their crunch.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Candy Walnuts Or Pecans contains roughly 278 calories, with 3g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1931mg per serving (84% 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 other types of nuts for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute walnuts or pecans with other nuts such as almonds, cashews, or even peanuts. Just keep in mind that different nuts may have slightly different cooking times or textures. Make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly and watch for the soft ball stage.
What should I do if my candy mixture is too sticky?
If your candy mixture is too sticky, it may not have reached the soft ball stage. Reheat it gently while stirring continuously until it reaches the desired temperature. If the nuts are already coated and sticky, lightly dust them with powdered sugar or cornstarch to reduce stickiness while still maintaining their sweetness.
How can I make this recipe less sweet?
To reduce the sweetness of the candy nuts, you can decrease the amount of sugar used in the recipe. Alternatively, consider adding a bit of sea salt or spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to balance the sweetness. You might also experiment with using sugar substitutes, but be sure to check their properties for candy-making.
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).