Sweet Peanuts
Sweet peanuts coated in caramelized sugar offer a crunchy, salty-sweet snack perfect for parties or casual munching, appealing to those who love flavorful, nutty treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine raw, shelled peanuts, sugar, and water in a saucepan.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, about 15 minutes until sugar crystallizes on peanuts.
- Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet coated with Pam.
- Sprinkle with salt if desired.
- Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 30 minutes.
- Turn the peanuts after 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract while cooking the peanuts. If you want a healthier option, you can substitute sugar with honey or maple syrup, though this may alter the texture slightly. Stir consistently to prevent the sugar from burning, and keep an eye on the peanuts as they cook to ensure even coating.
Serving Suggestions
These sweet peanuts make a delightful snack on their own or can be served alongside a cheese platter for a contrasting flavor. They also pair beautifully with cocktails or as a topping for salads, such as the New England Salad Dressing. Enjoy them at parties or as a sweet treat during movie nights.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store the sweet peanuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for a month. To re-crisp, spread them on a baking sheet and warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet Peanuts contains roughly 304 calories, with 11g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (38% of the Daily Value), and protein (21% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 462mg per serving (20% 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 roasted peanuts instead of raw?
Using roasted peanuts can alter the texture and flavor of the final product, as they may not absorb the sugar syrup as well. If you prefer roasted peanuts, reduce the cooking time to avoid burning, and monitor closely during the crystallization process.
What can I do if the sugar doesn't crystallize?
If the sugar doesn't crystallize, ensure that you stirred consistently and used the correct heat. You can try to reheat the mixture gently, adding a bit more sugar and stirring until it crystallizes. If it remains sticky, it may be best enjoyed as a sweet syrup topping.
Can I add flavors like chocolate or spices?
Absolutely! You can stir in cocoa powder, cayenne pepper, or even ground ginger towards the end of cooking for an exciting twist. Just be cautious with the amounts, as these can overpower the sweetness of the sugar and peanuts.
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).