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Easy Crispy Candied Walnuts Recipe

A pile of glistening, sugar-coated candied walnuts served on a light gray plate.

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Make best crispy candied walnuts on the stovetop using simple sugar coating. This quick tutorial provides crunchy glazed walnuts instructions perfect for salads or snacking.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup walnut halves or pieces
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Combine sugar, water, cinnamon, and salt in a medium non-stick skillet over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
  2. Bring the mixture to a boil without stirring once boiling begins. Allow it to cook until the syrup reaches a light amber color, about 5 to 7 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning.
  3. Remove the skillet from the heat. Immediately add the walnuts to the syrup. Stir quickly and continuously using a wooden spoon or heat-proof spatula until the syrup crystallizes and coats the nuts evenly.
  4. Spread the coated walnuts in a single layer onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Separate any clumps immediately while they are still warm.
  5. Allow the candied walnuts to cool completely, about 15 minutes, until they are hard and crunchy. Store in an airtight container.

Notes

  • For a sweet and salty walnuts snack, add a pinch of flaky sea salt when spreading them out to cool.
  • If you prefer a different flavor, substitute the cinnamon with 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract added just after removing the pan from the heat.
  • Do not double the recipe in the same small skillet, as the sugar may not coat evenly. Make two separate batches if you need more.

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