Sweet And Crunchy Nuts
Sweet and crunchy nuts coated in a caramelized sugar glaze with a hint of sherry, perfect for snacking or gifting. A delightful treat for nut lovers and party platters.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spray 2 cookie sheets with Pam.
- Beat egg whites until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add brown sugar, salt, melted butter, and sherry; blend well.
- Add broken walnut pieces and toss to coat evenly.
- Spread coated nuts on prepared cookie sheets.
- Bake at 250°F (120°C) for 1 to 1 1/4 hours until coating and nuts appear dry, stirring every fifteen minutes to separate nuts.
- Rinse off any stickiness from the spatula after each stirring.
- Allow nuts to cool completely.
- Dry thoroughly.
- Store in airtight tins.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the egg white mixture. If walnuts aren't available, pecans or almonds work well as substitutes. Make sure to beat the egg whites to soft peaks for a light and airy coating. Regularly stir the nuts while baking to ensure even crispness and prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions
These nuts make a delightful snack on their own but also pair beautifully with a cheese platter or as a topping for salads. They can be sprinkled over a fruit salad like Cherry Fruit Fluff for added texture. For a festive touch, serve them during holiday gatherings or as a special treat in gift tins for friends and family.
Storage & Reheating
Once the Sweet And Crunchy Nuts are completely cooled, store them in airtight containers to maintain their crunchiness. They can be kept at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you want to maintain freshness longer, consider refrigerating them, but allow them to reach room temperature before serving to enjoy their full flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet And Crunchy Nuts contains roughly 79 calories, with 6g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of protein (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 972mg 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 nuts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a variety of nuts such as pecans, almonds, or cashews instead of walnuts. Each type of nut will bring its unique flavor and texture, so feel free to experiment based on your preference.
What should I do if my nuts are still sticky after baking?
If the nuts remain sticky after the suggested baking time, you can return them to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes. Make sure to stir them every few minutes to promote even drying and prevent burning.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, replace the egg whites with aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) and use a dairy-free butter substitute. Adjust the baking time slightly as needed, but the process will remain the same for a delicious vegan treat.
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).