Maple Candied Walnuts
Sweet and crunchy maple candied walnuts feature rich flavors and a glossy coating, perfect for snacking, topping desserts, or adding a touch of sweetness to salads.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sugar, white syrup, water, and salt in a saucepan.
- Cook the mixture to soft-ball stage.
- Remove from heat and stir in butter and maple flavoring.
- Spoon the hot syrup mixture over walnut halves and coat evenly.
- Allow to cool and harden before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark brown sugar instead of white sugar, which will add depth to the sweetness. If you don't have walnut halves, pecans or almonds can be great substitutes. Monitor the cooking closely to avoid burning the sugar syrup, as the soft-ball stage is crucial for the perfect texture. If you want a festive twist, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the syrup.
Serving Suggestions
These maple candied walnuts make a delightful snack on their own or can be used as a topping for salads, yogurt, or oatmeal. They pair beautifully with Gerry'S Standard Cake for dessert or can be served alongside cheese platters for a sweet-savory combination. Enjoy them as a part of a holiday gift basket or as a crunchy topping on ice cream.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled candied walnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you live in a humid climate, refrigeration can help maintain their crunch. To reheat, simply place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes to restore their crispness without melting the coating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Maple Candied Walnuts contains roughly 90 calories, with 1g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1750mg 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 for this recipe?
Yes, you can definitely substitute walnuts with other nuts like pecans or almonds. Keep in mind that different nuts can have varying cooking times, so adjust accordingly to ensure they are perfectly coated without burning.
What is the soft-ball stage in candy making?
The soft-ball stage is when the sugar syrup reaches a temperature of about 234°F to 240°F. You can test this by dropping a small amount of syrup into cold water; it should form a soft ball that flattens when removed from the water. This stage is crucial for achieving the right texture for your candied walnuts.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, simply replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative such as coconut oil or vegan butter. Ensure that the syrup you use is also vegan-friendly, as some brands may contain animal products. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan.
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).