Fern Thomas' Sugared Nuts
Sugared nuts with a sweet, honey-glazed coating, perfect as a snack or party treat, appealing to those who enjoy crunchy, caramelized confections.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the sugar, water, honey (or light Karo), and a pinch of salt to a very soft ball stage.
- Stir in the nuts and cook until coated and caramelized.
- Turn out onto a waxed paper-covered tray and separate the nuts. Allow to cool and harden.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use fresh nuts and ensure they are roasted for enhanced flavor. If you don't have honey, light corn syrup can be a suitable substitute. Watch closely when cooking the sugar mixture, as it can burn quickly. Stir continuously to prevent sticking. For a twist, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth and spice.
Serving Suggestions
These sugared nuts make a delightful snack on their own or can be used as a topping for salads like Betty'S Cranberry Salad. They also pair well with cheese platters or as a sweet addition to homemade gift baskets. For a festive touch, serve them in decorative bowls during gatherings or holidays.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover sugared nuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. To maintain their crunchiness, avoid refrigerating them, as moisture can cause them to become soft. If they do soften, briefly reheat in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes to restore their crisp texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fern Thomas' Sugared Nuts contains roughly 181 calories, with 2g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1755mg per serving (76% 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 different types of nuts for this recipe?
Absolutely! While walnuts and pecans are traditional, feel free to experiment with almonds, cashews, or hazelnuts. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as different nuts may caramelize at varying rates.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, to make this recipe vegan, simply substitute the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. The rest of the ingredients remain the same, ensuring a delicious result without any animal products.
What can I do if the sugar mixture crystallizes?
If your sugar mixture crystallizes, you can try adding a small amount of water and gently reheating it while stirring. Keeping the pot clean and avoiding stirring too much while it cooks can help prevent crystallization in the first place.
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).