Cinnamon-Sugared Walnuts
Sweet and crunchy cinnamon-sugared walnuts make a delightful snack or topping, perfect for gifting or adding warmth to desserts with rich cinnamon and vanilla flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and heat the walnut pieces for 5 minutes.
- In a heavy saucepan, combine sugar, water, cinnamon, and salt.
- Cook the mixture to 236°F on a candy thermometer.
- Remove from heat and beat by hand about 1 minute until the mixture begins to look creamy.
- Add vanilla to the mixture.
- Mix in the warm walnuts and stir to coat evenly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, try using toasted walnuts instead of raw. If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the sugar by a third. You can also experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom for a unique twist. Ensure the mixture reaches the correct temperature for the best texture, as this recipe relies on achieving a creamy consistency.
Serving Suggestions
These cinnamon-sugared walnuts make a delightful snack on their own or can be added to a Fresh Spinach Salad Dressing for a sweet crunch. They also pair beautifully with Barbecue Chicken Or Ribs, offering a nice contrast to savory dishes. Consider serving them as a garnish on desserts like ice cream or yogurt.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cinnamon-sugared walnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them crispy, avoid refrigeration. If they become soft, you can re-crisp them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes, stirring once to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cinnamon-Sugared Walnuts contains roughly 225 calories, with 2g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g 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 instead of walnuts?
Yes, you can substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds. Just keep in mind that different nuts may alter the flavor and texture slightly. For best results, ensure that the nuts are evenly coated with the sugar mixture regardless of the type you choose.
What should I do if my sugar mixture crystallizes?
If your sugar mixture crystallizes, try adding a tablespoon of water and gently reheating it while stirring until it becomes smooth again. It's essential to keep the heat low and avoid stirring too vigorously, as that can encourage crystallization.
Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?
This recipe is nearly vegan, but to ensure it fits a vegan diet, you can replace the vanilla with a vegan-friendly extract or omit it entirely. The other ingredients are naturally plant-based, making it a great choice for vegan recipes.
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).