Honey-Candied Walnuts
Sweet and crunchy honey-candied walnuts with a glossy, sugary coating, perfect for snacking, salads, or dessert toppings, appealing to nut lovers and those with a sweet tooth.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring sugar, honey, salt, and water to a boil and cook until the mixture reaches 242°F (soft ball stage).
- Remove from heat and add vanilla and walnuts. Stir until the mixture becomes creamy and coats the nuts.
- Pour the coated walnuts onto waxed paper and let them cool.
- Separate the nutmeats once cooled and set aside.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure the walnuts are evenly coated, stir the mixture vigorously right after adding the nuts. If you want a less sweet version, you can reduce the sugar by a third or substitute with a natural sweetener like agave syrup. For an extra flavor twist, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
These honey-candied walnuts are a delightful snack on their own or sprinkled over salads, such as Pink Grapefruit Salad, for a sweet crunch. They also make an excellent topping for desserts like ice cream or yogurt, adding texture and flavor. Consider pairing them with cheeses for a sophisticated charcuterie board.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled honey-candied walnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If they become sticky over time, you can briefly re-crisp them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes, allowing them to regain their crunch.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Honey-Candied Walnuts contains roughly 130 calories, with 2g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 0g 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 1754mg 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 other nuts instead of walnuts?
Yes, you can substitute walnuts with pecans, almonds, or cashews. Just keep in mind that different nuts may have varying cooking times and flavors, so adjust accordingly. Pecans offer a similar richness, while almonds will provide a crunchier texture.
How do I prevent the nuts from sticking together?
To prevent sticking, make sure to separate the walnuts as soon as they cool on the waxed paper. You can also lightly grease the paper with cooking spray before pouring the nuts onto it, which will help keep them from clumping together.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can make a vegan version of this recipe by replacing honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. Both alternatives will give you a similar sweetness while keeping the recipe plant-based. Just ensure that your sugar is also vegan, as some sugars are processed with bone char.
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).