Glazed Walnuts
Sweet, creamy glazed walnuts coated with vanilla-scented sugar create a crunchy treat perfect for snacking or gifting, appealing to those who enjoy rich, nutty flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sour cream and sugar together in a saucepan.
- Heat the mixture to 223°F, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Add vanilla and walnuts to the hot mixture.
- Stir rapidly until the mixture coats the nuts thoroughly.
- Spread the coated walnuts on foil to cool.
- Allow to cool completely before storing in airtight containers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother glaze, ensure the sugar fully dissolves in the sour cream before heating. If walnuts are too large, consider chopping them for better coating. You can substitute sour cream with Creme Fraiche for a tangy twist. Keep an eye on the temperature to prevent burning; using a candy thermometer is beneficial for accuracy.
Serving Suggestions
These glazed walnuts make an excellent snack on their own or as a topping for salads, especially paired with an Orange Pecan Salad. You can also use them in desserts or as a crunchy addition to yogurt or oatmeal. For a festive touch, serve them alongside a cheese platter or as part of a gift package.
Storage & Reheating
Store the glazed walnuts in airtight containers at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you live in a humid area, refrigerate them to maintain crunchiness. Reheat them briefly in the oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes to restore their crispness before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Glazed Walnuts contains roughly 1878 calories, with 29g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 118g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (59% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (44% of the Daily Value), and iron (31% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 12g 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 for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that different nuts may require slight adjustments in cooking time depending on their size and oil content.
How do I know when the mixture has reached the right temperature?
The mixture should reach 223°F, which is the soft ball stage in candy making. A candy thermometer is the best tool for this; if you don't have one, you can test by dropping a small amount of the mixture in cold water to see if it forms a soft ball.
What can I do if my glaze is too thick?
If the glaze becomes too thick before coating the walnuts, you can add a small amount of water or more sour cream over low heat to loosen it up. Stir well to combine the ingredients and ensure an even glaze.
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).