Crystalled Peanuts
Crystalled peanuts offer a sweet, crunchy treat with a shiny sugar coating, perfect for snack lovers and festive occasions alike, combining caramelized flavor with nutty richness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil raw peanuts, sugar, water, and vanilla for about 20 minutes until the sugar crystallizes on the nuts, stirring constantly.
- Place the coated peanuts on a large cookie sheet.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the perfect crystallization, keep an eye on the boiling mixture and stir constantly to prevent burning. If you want a nutty flavor, consider toasting the raw peanuts before coating. You can substitute the vanilla with almond extract for a different flavor profile. Make sure to spread the peanuts evenly on the cookie sheet to ensure proper baking.
Serving Suggestions
These crystallized peanuts make a delightful snack on their own or can be used as a topping for ice cream or yogurt. They pair beautifully with Uncle Charlie's Slaw for a picnic or barbecue. You can also serve them alongside a cheese platter for an unexpected crunch and sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover crystallized peanuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If they become sticky, you can place them in the refrigerator for a short time to re-crisp them. Avoid moisture, as it can cause the sugar to dissolve and the peanuts to lose their crunch.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crystalled Peanuts contains roughly 762 calories, with 13g protein, 85g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (97% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (57% of the Daily Value), and protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 483mg per serving (21% 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?
Yes, you can use roasted peanuts, but be cautious of the cooking time. Since they are already cooked, reduce the boiling time to about 10 minutes to avoid overcooking them and losing their crunch.
What can I do if the sugar doesn't crystallize?
If the sugar doesn't crystallize, it may be due to not boiling long enough or not stirring consistently. Try boiling the mixture a bit longer while keeping it at a rolling boil, and make sure to stir constantly to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as it doesn't contain any animal products. Just ensure that the sugar you use is vegan-friendly, as some sugars are processed with bone char. You can also experiment with different flavorings, such as using maple syrup instead of sugar for a unique twist.
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).