Quick Candied Walnuts are a delightful and easy-to-make treat that blends the rich, earthy flavors of walnuts with a sweet, glossy coating. This recipe typically starts with fresh, raw walnuts, chosen for their robust, slightly bitter taste and firm texture. These nuts are then prepared for candying, a process which involves coating them in a sugary mixture.
The candying mixture is usually a simple syrup made from sugar and water, heated until the sugar dissolves completely, forming a clear, thick liquid. Some variations might include adding a touch of vanilla extract, cinnamon, or a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor profile. The key is to achieve a balance where the sweetness complements but doesn’t overpower the natural flavor of the walnuts.
Once the syrup is ready, the walnuts are added to the mixture and stirred gently. The goal is to ensure that each walnut is evenly coated with the syrup. This step is crucial for achieving a uniform glaze on the nuts once they are candied.
After coating, the walnuts are typically laid out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This helps in preventing sticking and makes for easier cleanup. They are then baked in a preheated oven. The baking temperature and time are critical – too high or too long, and the sugar can burn, imparting a bitter taste; too low or too short, and the walnuts won’t achieve that delightful crunch.
As they bake, the syrup caramelizes, wrapping each walnut in a shiny, golden coat that hardens as it cools. This process not only adds a crunchy texture but also intensifies the sweetness and brings a deep, caramel-like flavor to the nuts.
Once out of the oven, the candied walnuts are left to cool. They must be separated from each other before they completely cool down and harden, as they can stick together forming clusters. Once cooled, they transform into a crunchy, sweet snack with a glossy appearance and a satisfying snap with each bite.
Quick Candied Walnuts are versatile and can be used in various ways. They are a perfect addition to salads, giving a sweet and crunchy contrast to greens. They can also be used as a topping for desserts like ice cream or yogurt, or simply enjoyed on their own as a sweet treat. The combination of the natural, earthy flavor of the walnuts with the sweet, caramelized coating makes them an irresistible snack for both sweet and savory applications.
Ingredients:
2 cups of walnuts
½ cup of granulated sugar
2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
½ cup of water
3 tablespoons of brown sugar
¼ teaspoon of salt
A dash of cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium skillet, combine walnuts, both sugars, butter, water, and cinnamon if using.
Cook over high heat, stirring constantly. The sugar should melt and form a caramel coating in about 5 minutes.
Spread the coated walnuts on the baking sheet in a single layer to cool. Once cooled, break them apart.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks (if they last that long!).
These quick candied walnuts are a simple yet impressive treat. They are perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings or wowing your friends and family on any occasion. Save this recipe and enjoy the pleasure of making and indulging in these deliciously addictive sweet treats.
