Maple-Cinnamon Candied Walnuts
Indulge in the irresistible sweetness of Maple-Cinnamon Candied Walnuts! This delightful treat adds a sweet crunch to any dish, from fresh salads and creamy ice creams to your favorite breakfast bowls. These walnuts are caramelized to perfection with rich butter, aromatic cinnamon, and a touch of sugar, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. Perfect as a wholesome snack or as a decadent topping, these candied walnuts were inspired by Heather's Sweet Potato recipe #91021, but they can shine on their own in a myriad of delightful applications. Try them out and elevate your culinary creations!
1
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Walnuts
1 cup (halved)
Butter
2 tablespoons (unsalted)
Sugar
1-2 tablespoons (granulated)
Cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon (ground (optional))
Maple Syrup
1 tablespoon (optional for added sweetness)
Instructions
1
In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat over medium-high heat.
2
Add the halved walnuts and unsalted butter to the pan.
3
Stir continuously until the butter is fully melted and the walnuts are well-coated.
4
Sprinkle the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon (if using) over the nuts, continuing to stir until the nuts are caramelized and lightly golden, about 5-7 minutes.
5
Optional: For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle in maple syrup and stir until combined.
6
Carefully pour the walnut mixture onto a sheet of parchment paper, spreading them out to prevent clumping.
7
Allow the candied walnuts to cool completely before breaking apart any clusters.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Maple-Cinnamon Candied Walnuts?
Maple-Cinnamon Candied Walnuts are a sweet and crunchy treat made by caramelizing walnuts with butter, sugar, and cinnamon.
What ingredients do I need for this recipe?
You will need 1 cup of halved walnuts, 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, 1-2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and optionally 1 tablespoon of maple syrup.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter, though it will add a slight savory note to the sweet coating.
What type of sugar should I use for candied walnuts?
The recipe calls for granulated sugar, which helps create a nice caramelized crunch.
Is cinnamon required for this recipe?
Cinnamon is listed as optional, but it is highly recommended for an aromatic, warm flavor.
What kind of walnuts are best to use?
Halved walnuts are ideal because they provide a larger surface area for the caramel coating to stick to.
Can I use other nuts besides walnuts?
Yes, this caramelization method works well with pecans, almonds, or even cashews.
Should I use raw or roasted walnuts?
Use raw walnuts; they will effectively toast in the pan while the butter and sugar caramelize.
Is the maple syrup mandatory?
No, maple syrup is optional and intended for those who want an extra touch of sweetness and maple flavor.
Can I substitute honey for maple syrup?
Yes, honey is a great alternative if you want a different type of natural sweetness.
How do I cook the walnuts?
Cook them in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat, stirring continuously with butter, sugar, and spices.
What heat setting is best for candying nuts?
Medium-high heat is recommended to melt the butter and caramelize the sugar efficiently.
How long does the caramelization process take?
It generally takes about 5 to 7 minutes until the nuts are caramelized and lightly golden.
Why should I use a heavy-bottomed pan?
A heavy-bottomed pan distributes heat more evenly, which helps prevent the sugar from burning too quickly.
Do I need to use an oven for this recipe?
No, this is a stovetop recipe that can be completed entirely in a pan.
How do I prevent the walnuts from burning in the pan?
The key is to stir continuously and monitor the heat so the sugar doesn't darken too fast.
How can I tell when the candied walnuts are finished cooking?
They are done when they appear lightly golden and the sugar has completely melted into a shiny coating.
How should I cool the candied walnuts?
Pour them onto parchment paper and spread them out immediately to prevent them from sticking together in a clump.
Can I use aluminum foil instead of parchment paper?
Yes, though the nuts may stick more to foil than to parchment paper.
How should I store the leftover candied walnuts?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature once they have cooled completely.
How long do these candied walnuts stay fresh?
When stored in an airtight container, they typically stay fresh and crunchy for up to a week.
Can I freeze candied walnuts?
Yes, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months for longer storage.
What are some ways to serve Maple-Cinnamon Candied Walnuts?
They are perfect as a snack, a salad topper, an ice cream garnish, or a mix-in for breakfast bowls.
Are these walnuts good for salads?
Yes, they add a delightful sweet crunch that pairs perfectly with fresh greens and vinaigrettes.
Can I use these as a topping for desserts?
Absolutely, they are excellent on creamy ice cream, yogurt, or even cheesecake.
Are these suitable for a breakfast topping?
Yes, they work very well in oatmeal, yogurt parfaits, or acai bowls.
Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
The recipe uses butter, so it is not vegan as written.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
You can substitute the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
Are these candied walnuts gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients used (walnuts, butter, sugar, cinnamon, maple syrup) are naturally gluten-free.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients, just make sure to use a larger pan to ensure even caramelization.