Maple-Vanilla Candied Nuts
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
20 mins
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Total Time
25 mins
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Servings
6 (1/3 cup servings)
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Calories
305 kcal
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Cuisine
Vegan, gluten-free
Maple-Vanilla Candied Nuts
Description
This recipe uses raw, unsalted walnuts or pecans coated evenly in maple syrup, pure vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. The mixture is gently simmered over medium to medium-low heat, stirring often, allowing the syrup to thicken and crystallize over about 20 minutes without burning.
The low and slow simmer ensures the nuts develop a crisp, sweet coating flavored with warm vanilla and cinnamon accents. After cooking, the candied nuts are spread on parchment to cool and harden. The result is crunchy and sweet with a balanced spice.
Stored in a sealed container at room temperature, these candied nuts stay fresh for 1-2 weeks. They are versatile for adding crunch to salads, yogurt, or desserts, or enjoyed on their own as a snack.
Ingredients
- 2 cups walnuts or pecans or both
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract more if desired, pure
- 1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon (more if desired)
- 1/8 tsp. salt
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a medium non-stick sauté pan over medium heat.
- Stir well with a spatula to thoroughly coat and combine.
- Bring mixture to a light simmer (soft bubbles not vigorously bubbling) stirring occasionally.
- Reduce heat to medium-low (to prevent burning). The mixture will be thin/liquidy at first, and then becomes very thick/sticky after a few minutes. Continue lightly simmering until the maple syrup has crystallized, about 20 minutes total, stirring often. (If the nuts are sticky, then keep going. Low and slow is the key.)
- When nuts are crystallized (see photos for texture reference), pour the candied nuts out onto a flat surface. (I place a sheet of parchment paper on a baking sheet.) Gently spread them out with a spatula and let cool.
Notes
- Use raw, unsalted walnuts or pecans for best results.
- Store cooled candied nuts in a sealed container at room temperature for up to 1-2 weeks.
- Maintain a low simmer and stir often to prevent burning and achieve a crisp coating.
- Recipe adapted from Ellie Krieger.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6(1/3 cup servings)
Amount Per Serving
Calories 305 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 305kcal | 15% |
| Carbohydrates | 18g | 6% |
| Protein | 6g | 12% |
| Fat | 25g | 38% |
| Saturated Fat | 2g | 10% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 18g | 106% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 3g | 15% |
| Potassium | 213mg | 5% |
| Fiber | 3g | 12% |
| Sugar | 12g | 24% |
| Vitamin A | 8IU | 0% |
| Vitamin C | 1mg | 1% |
| Calcium | 59mg | 6% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.