White-Black Walnut Candy
White-Black Walnut Candy offers a delightful combination of creamy sweetness, crunchy walnuts, and colorful candied cherries, perfect for those who enjoy rich, textured confections with a festive flair.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the sugar and half and half to soft ball stage.
- Remove from heat and add margarine, almond extract, and salt.
- Beat until the mixture is cool.
- Add the coconut, chopped black walnuts, green candied cherries, and red candied cherries.
- Pour into a buttered dish and allow to set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider substituting half and half with heavy cream. If black walnuts are hard to find or too strong for your taste, you can use regular walnuts or pecans instead. Be sure to cook the mixture to the soft ball stage for the best results; use a candy thermometer for accuracy. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts and add more coconut.
Serving Suggestions
This candy makes a delightful treat on its own or can be served alongside a cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, consider packaging it as a homemade gift during the holidays. It pairs beautifully with Bourbon Punch for a sweet finish to a meal. You can also serve it as part of a dessert platter featuring other American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you live in a humid climate, consider refrigerating it to maintain texture. To enjoy later, simply cut into pieces and allow to come to room temperature before serving. Avoid freezing, as it may alter the candy's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of White-Black Walnut Candy contains roughly 292 calories, with 6g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1848mg per serving (80% 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?
Yes, you can substitute black walnuts with regular walnuts, pecans, or even almonds if you prefer a milder flavor. Just be sure to chop them finely for even distribution in the candy.
What is the best way to cut the candy once it's set?
To cut the candy neatly, first chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm it up. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts to ensure smooth edges. You can also lightly grease the knife for easier cutting.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version of this candy, replace the half and half with a non-dairy milk and use vegan margarine. Ensure that your almond extract is also vegan-friendly. The other ingredients, like coconut and candied cherries, are generally suitable for vegan diets.
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).