Five-Spice Walnuts
Sweet and spicy roasted walnuts infused with warm spices and honey-like sweetness, perfect for snacking, gifting, or adding a flavorful crunch to salads and cheese platters.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Whisk egg whites in a bowl until foamy.
- Add white grape juice, sugar, and salt; mix well.
- Stir in spices and walnuts.
- Spread mixture into two 10 x 15-inch baking pans, sprayed with nonstick spray.
- Bake for 1 hour at 250°F, stirring occasionally, until walnuts are dry.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use fresh walnuts as they yield a better flavor and crunch. If you prefer a different nut, pecans can be a great substitute. Adjust the spices to your liking; for a spicier kick, add more ginger or a pinch of cayenne. Consider using maple syrup instead of sugar for a unique sweetness. Ensure the egg whites are at room temperature for better whipping.
Serving Suggestions
These Five-Spice Walnuts make a delightful snack on their own or can be added to salads for an extra crunch. They pair beautifully with a cheese platter or can be used as a topping for desserts like the Crustless Custard. For a balanced appetizer, serve them alongside a fresh fruit salad or yogurt dip.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Five-Spice Walnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a month. Avoid moisture, as it can make them lose their crunch. If you want to serve them warm again, briefly toast them in the oven at 200°F for about 5-10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Five-Spice Walnuts contains roughly 351 calories, with 4g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1029mg per serving (45% 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 other types of nuts in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute walnuts with pecans, almonds, or cashews. Each nut will impart its own unique flavor, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the nut's size and oil content.
What can I do if the walnuts aren't drying out properly?
If the walnuts aren't drying out, ensure your oven is at the correct temperature and that you stir them occasionally during baking. If they remain sticky, you may need to bake them a little longer, checking every 10 minutes.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the egg whites with aquafaba, which is the liquid from canned chickpeas. Use about 3 tablespoons of aquafaba to replace each egg white. The texture may vary slightly, but it will still yield delicious results.
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).