Crystallized Peanuts
Crystallized peanuts offer a sweet, crunchy treat with a sugar coating that appeals to snack lovers and those with a sweet tooth, perfect for snacking or gifting.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put all ingredients together in a heavy saucepan and boil over medium heat until all liquid is evaporated.
- Some stirring will be required when liquid becomes low to prevent peanuts from scorching and to make sugar crystallize.
- When all liquid is gone and peanuts have a good coat of sugar on them, pour onto a large platter or cookie sheet and stir through with a spoon once or twice to break peanuts apart.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure that the sugar crystals form properly, keep stirring the peanuts as the liquid reduces to prevent scorching. If you want to experiment, you can substitute raw peanuts with other nuts like almonds or cashews, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary. For added flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt or a dash of vanilla extract during cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Crystallized peanuts are a delightful snack on their own but can also be used as a topping for ice cream, yogurt, or salads. They pair beautifully with Strawberry Pie(Mother'S Recipe) for a sweet treat or serve as a crunchy addition to trail mix. Consider placing them in small bowls as part of a dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store crystallized peanuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you notice any moisture, re-crisp them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes. Avoid refrigeration, as it can cause the sugar to become sticky.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crystallized Peanuts contains roughly 304 calories, with 11g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (38% of the Daily Value), and protein (21% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 463mg per serving (20% 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 peanuts?
Yes, you can use roasted peanuts, but be cautious as they may cook faster and can scorch easily. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to achieve the desired sugar coating without burning the nuts.
What should I do if the sugar doesn’t crystallize?
If the sugar doesn’t crystallize, it may be due to not stirring enough or cooking at too high a heat. Make sure to keep the mixture at medium heat and stir frequently as the liquid reduces to encourage proper crystallization.
Can I add flavors to my crystallized peanuts?
Absolutely! You can add spices such as cinnamon or cayenne pepper for a unique twist. Just remember to incorporate them into the sugar and water mixture before boiling for an even distribution of flavor.
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).