Nut Crunch
Nut Crunch offers a crispy, sweet, and nutty treat with toasted pecans and walnuts, ideal for snacking or sharing at gatherings. Rich, crunchy, and satisfying.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place nuts in a shallow baking dish.
- Toast in a preheated 325° oven for 10 minutes.
- Beat egg whites until soft peaks form.
- Add sugar and salt to the egg whites.
- Continue beating until stiff peaks form.
- Fold in toasted nuts.
- Melt butter in a jelly roll pan.
- Spread the nut mixture over the melted butter.
- Bake for 30 minutes at 325°, stirring every 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or cinnamon to the egg whites. If you're out of pecans, you can substitute with almonds or hazelnuts. Ensure the nuts are evenly coated with the egg mixture for consistent crunch. Keep an eye on them while baking to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Nut Crunch as a delightful topping for desserts like vanilla ice cream or yogurt. It also pairs beautifully with Emma'S Cottage Cheese Salad for a satisfying meal. For an elegant presentation, sprinkle over a fruit salad or enjoy as a snack on its own. Perfect for sharing at gatherings!
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them for up to two weeks. To reheat, spread them on a baking sheet and warm them in a 300°F oven for about 5-10 minutes to restore their crunch.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nut Crunch contains roughly 687 calories, with 17g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 64g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (35% of the Daily Value) and protein (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 973mg per serving (42% 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 in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match nuts based on your preference. Cashews, almonds, or even pistachios can be great alternatives. Just ensure they are raw and unsalted for the best results.
How do I know when the nut mixture is done baking?
The nut mixture should be golden brown and fragrant when done. Stir every 10 minutes to ensure even cooking and to prevent burning. Keep a close watch towards the end of the baking time.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time for a party?
Yes, you can prepare Nut Crunch a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container once cooled. This allows the flavors to meld, making it even more delicious when served the next day!
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).