Orange Walnuts
Sweet and crunchy orange walnut candies with a citrus flavor, perfect for snacking or gifting, appealing to those who enjoy nutty, citrus-infused treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend together frozen orange juice and sugar, then stir over low heat until sugar is dissolved.
- Increase heat to 240°F (soft ball stage) without stirring.
- Remove from heat and add walnuts.
- Stir until mixture begins to thicken, then drop teaspoons onto sheets of waxed paper.
- Allow to cool before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider toasting the walnuts before adding them to the mixture. If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the sugar to 1 cup. Ensure the orange juice is fully blended to avoid lumps. Monitor the temperature closely as it can quickly exceed the soft ball stage, resulting in a harder candy. For a twist, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg.
Serving Suggestions
These Orange Walnuts make a delightful snack on their own or can be served alongside a charcuterie board. They pair beautifully with a Tangy-Tart Drink or as a sweet topping for salads. For special occasions, consider serving them as part of a holiday dessert spread, complementing other sweet treats like Millionaire'S Candy for a festive touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled Orange Walnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator, where they can last up to two weeks. Avoid storing in humid areas to maintain their crunch. There's no need to reheat; these treats are best enjoyed at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange Walnuts contains roughly 77 calories, with 2g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (15% 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 fresh orange juice instead of frozen?
Yes, you can substitute fresh orange juice for frozen, but be sure to adjust the amount of sugar, as fresh juice can vary in sweetness. Start with less sugar and taste as you go to achieve the desired sweetness in your Orange Walnuts.
How do I know when the mixture reaches the soft ball stage?
To check if the mixture has reached the soft ball stage, use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature closely. It should reach 240°F. Alternatively, drop a small amount of the mixture into cold water; if it forms a soft ball that can be easily flattened, it's ready to be removed from heat.
Can I add other nuts or ingredients to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other nuts like pecans or almonds for added texture. You could also include dried fruits or chocolate chips for extra flavor. Just ensure that the added ingredients are compatible with the candy's consistency.
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).