Sherried Walnuts
Sweet, nutty walnuts coated in a sherry-infused caramel glaze, offering a delightful crunch and rich flavor. Perfect as a gift or elegant snack for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sugar, sherry, lemon or orange peel, white corn syrup, and salt in a 2-quart saucepan.
- Bring to a boil and cook until the mixture reaches the soft ball stage (238°F) on a candy thermometer.
- Remove from heat and add the walnuts.
- Stir until the mixture becomes creamy and the walnuts are coated.
- Pour the coated walnuts onto waxed paper and separate them using two forks.
- Allow the walnuts to dry before packing in an airtight container for storage.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a dark sherry or even a flavored sherry like cream sherry. If you're out of corn syrup, honey or maple syrup can be used as a substitute, though they may slightly alter the taste. Ensure the mixture reaches the soft ball stage for proper coating; using a candy thermometer is essential for accuracy.
Serving Suggestions
These sherried walnuts make an excellent snack on their own or can be used as a topping for salads like Vermont Apple Slaw. They pair beautifully with cheese platters or can be served alongside a glass of Sparkling Berry Punch for a delightful contrast. Consider using them as a crunchy garnish on desserts or in trail mixes.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled sherried walnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator, where they can last up to two weeks. Recrisp them in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes if they lose their crunch.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sherried Walnuts contains roughly 140 calories, with 3g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (19% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 876mg per serving (38% 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 for a different flavor and texture. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the nuts you choose, as some may cook faster or slower than walnuts.
What should I do if my mixture doesn't reach the soft ball stage?
If your mixture isn't reaching the soft ball stage, ensure you're using a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature accurately. If it thickens too much, you can add a little water and reheat gently, stirring constantly until it reaches the desired consistency.
Can I make these sherried walnuts ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare them a few days in advance. Just ensure they are completely cooled and stored properly in an airtight container. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the taste when you serve them later.
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).