Carameled Walnuts
Crunchy, sweet caramelized walnuts with a hint of vanilla—perfect for snacking, topping desserts, or adding a warm, nutty twist to salads.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and sour cream in a saucepan and cook until it reaches a rolling boil.
- Add the vanilla extract and stir until the mixture thickens.
- Fold in the walnuts, stirring until they are evenly coated.
- Spread the coated walnuts onto a baking sheet to cool and set.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of sea salt to the caramel mixture. If walnuts aren't available, pecans or almonds can also work well as substitutes. Stir the mixture continuously while it cooks to prevent burning. Make sure your saucepan is large enough to accommodate the bubbling caramel.
Serving Suggestions
These carameled walnuts make a delicious snack on their own or can be used as a topping for desserts like ice cream or yogurt. They pair beautifully with Pear Velvet Salad for a refreshing contrast. You can also sprinkle them over oatmeal or use them in baking for added crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover carameled walnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator, where they can last for up to two weeks. If they become sticky, you can re-crisp them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carameled Walnuts contains roughly 654 calories, with 14g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (28% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. It also contributes 6g 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 light brown sugar instead of dark brown sugar?
Yes, you can use light brown sugar as a substitute for dark brown sugar in this recipe. The carameled walnuts will still have a delicious flavor, though they may be slightly less rich. If you want a deeper flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of molasses to the light brown sugar.
How do I know when the caramel is ready?
The caramel mixture is ready when it reaches a rolling boil and thickens slightly. You can test it by dropping a small amount into a glass of cold water; if it forms a soft ball, it's ready. Be careful not to overcook it, as it can become too hard once cooled.
Can I make these walnuts ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make carameled walnuts ahead of time and store them as mentioned. They make a great addition to gift baskets or as a topping for holiday desserts. Just ensure they are completely cooled before storing to maintain their crispiness.
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).