Candied Almonds

Stovetop Candied Almonds are the perfect treat for any occasion. These Candied Almonds are not only irresistibly sweet and crunchy but also incredibly quick to make. In just 5 minutes, you can whip up a batch that is sure to please everyone! Whether you’re looking for a festive snack or a delightful gift, these almonds deliver on flavor and simplicity.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 5 minutes of cooking time, you can enjoy homemade sweets without a long wait.
• Versatile Snack: Perfect for parties, movie nights, or as a topping for desserts, these almonds fit any occasion.
• Vegan-Friendly Option: Made without animal products, they cater to various dietary preferences while still being delicious.
• Minimal Ingredients: Simple pantry staples create maximum flavor; you won’t need fancy ingredients!
• Homemade Gift Idea: Put them in a jar, tie with a ribbon, and you’ve got a thoughtful gift for friends and family.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Candied Almonds, having the right tools on hand will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick skillet
• Parchment paper
• Medium plate or baking sheet
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick skillet: Ensures that your sugar mixture doesn’t stick, making cleanup easier.
• Parchment paper: Allows for easy transfer of the candied almonds without sticking together.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring and ensuring an even coating of sugar on the almonds.

Ingredients

For this delightful recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

• 3 1/2 tablespoons white sugar (divided)
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 teaspoon butter
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup whole raw almonds
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Candied Almonds

Step 1: Prepare Your Surface

Line a medium plate or baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Add 3 tablespoons of sugar, water, butter, cinnamon, and salt into a small skillet. An 8-inch non-stick skillet works best as it simplifies cleanup.

Step 3: Cook the Mixture

Place the skillet over medium heat. Cook while stirring occasionally until bubbles appear around the edges.

Step 4: Add Almonds and Vanilla

Stir in the almonds and vanilla extract. Continue cooking while stirring constantly until nearly all liquid evaporates and it forms a syrupy coating on the nuts.

Step 5: Transfer to Parchment Paper

Quickly remove the pan from heat. Sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of sugar, stir quickly, then transfer to parchment paper. Separate them as much as possible.

Step 6: Cool and Store

Allow the almonds to cool completely. Break apart any nuts that may be sticking together. Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh!

Enjoy your homemade Candied Almonds, a treat that’s sure to become a favorite!

How to Serve Candied Almonds

Candied almonds are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

As a Snack

• Enjoy them straight from the bowl for a sweet and crunchy snack anytime.

On a Salad

• Sprinkle candied almonds over greens for added texture and flavor. They pair especially well with vinaigrette dressings.

With Yogurt

• Mix candied almonds into your favorite yogurt for a delicious breakfast or dessert topping.

In Baked Goods

• Use them as an ingredient in cookies, muffins, or cakes for a sweet twist. Their crunch adds an enjoyable contrast to soft textures.

As Party Favors

• Package them in small bags as homemade gifts during holidays or special occasions. They make for charming and personal treats.

How to Perfect Candied Almonds

Creating the perfect batch of candied almonds is simple with the right techniques. Here are some tips to ensure your nuts turn out delicious every time.

• Use fresh almonds: Freshness impacts flavor and crunchiness. Make sure your almonds are not stale for the best results.

• Monitor heat carefully: Keep an eye on the heat level while cooking. Too high can burn the sugar, while too low may not caramelize properly.

• Stir consistently: Stirring continuously helps ensure even coating and prevents burning. This step is crucial when adding the almonds.

• Separate quickly: After transferring to parchment paper, separate the almonds quickly to avoid clumping as they cool.

• Store properly: Keep your candied almonds in an airtight container to maintain their crispness and prevent moisture exposure.

Best Side Dishes for Candied Almonds

Candied almonds can complement various dishes beautifully. Here’s a list of side dishes that pair well with this sweet treat.

1. Green Salad: A fresh green salad balances sweetness with crisp vegetables; consider mixed greens topped with vinaigrette.

2. Fruit Platter: A selection of seasonal fruits enhances the sweetness of candied almonds; think apples, pears, and berries.

3. Cheese Board: Pairing with cheeses like brie or goat cheese creates a delightful contrast of flavors; add crackers for texture.

4. Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts for a savory-sweet combo that excites the palate.

5. Oatmeal: Add candied almonds on top of warm oatmeal for extra crunch and sweetness; try it with cinnamon or honey drizzle.

6. Chocolate Fondue: Offer candied almonds as dippers alongside fruits and marshmallows; they provide an unexpected twist to the classic fondue experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making candied almonds, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping the lining: Not lining the baking sheet can lead to sticky almonds that are hard to remove. Always use parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Overcooking the sugar: Cooking the sugar too long can result in a burnt flavor. Watch for bubbles and remove it from heat as soon as they appear.
• Using toasted almonds: Using toasted instead of raw almonds can prevent achieving that perfect crunchy texture. Stick with whole raw almonds for best results.
• Neglecting to separate quickly: If you don’t separate the almonds right away, they may clump together. Work fast once you remove them from heat to keep them individual.
• Not storing properly: Storing candied almonds in a non-airtight container can make them lose their crunch. Use an airtight container for optimal freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Candied Almonds

• Place in an airtight freezer bag or container.
• You can freeze for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating Candied Almonds

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5 minutes until warmed and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 10-15 seconds, stirring in between, until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat in a skillet, stirring constantly until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about candied almonds.

What are Candied Almonds?

Candied almonds are whole raw almonds coated with a sweet sugar mixture, often flavored with cinnamon or vanilla, resulting in a crunchy and flavorful snack.

Can I customize my Candied Almonds?

Yes! You can add different spices like nutmeg or cardamom or even toss in some cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist on your candied almonds.

How long do Candied Almonds last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they can last up to one week at room temperature or longer if refrigerated or frozen.

Are Candied Almonds vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! This recipe uses plant-based ingredients and is suitable for vegans, making it a delightful treat for everyone.

Can I use other nuts instead of almonds?

Certainly! You can substitute with cashews, pecans, or walnuts for different flavors and textures while following the same recipe method.

Final Thoughts

Candied almonds are not just delicious; they’re also incredibly versatile. Perfect as snacks during gatherings or as gifts, you can easily customize them with different spices and flavors. Try this recipe today and enjoy the sweet crunch that will surely delight your family and friends!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Candied Almonds

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: About 6 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful simplicity of homemade Candied Almonds—a treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up this sweet and crunchy snack in under 10 minutes. These almonds are not only delicious but also versatile; serve them at parties, mix them into salads, or package them as thoughtful gifts. Their irresistible flavor and pleasant crunch make them a favorite among friends and family. Plus, they’re vegan-friendly, ensuring everyone can enjoy this tasty treat!

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Ingredients

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• 3 1/2 tablespoons white sugar (divided)
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 teaspoon plant-based butter
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup whole raw almonds
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Line a medium plate or baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small non-stick skillet, combine 3 tablespoons of sugar, water, plant-based butter, cinnamon, and salt. Cook over medium heat while stirring until bubbles form around the edges.
3. Add almonds and vanilla extract to the skillet. Stir constantly until the mixture becomes syrupy and nearly all liquid evaporates.
4. Quickly remove from heat, stir in the remaining sugar, then transfer the almonds to the parchment paper, separating them as much as possible.
5. Allow to cool completely before storing in an airtight container.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 160
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 30mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 0mg