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Candied Walnuts Recipe

Sweet, crunchy, and irresistibly delicious, these candied walnuts are perfect for snacking, salads, or as a topping for desserts.
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Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups walnut halves
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon optional
  • Pinch of salt

Equipment

  • Nonstick skillet or saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Baking Sheet:
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat and set it aside.
  3. Heat the Sugar Mixture:
  4. In a large nonstick skillet or saucepan, combine the sugar, water, cinnamon (if using), and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
  5. Cook the Walnuts:
  6. Add the walnuts to the skillet and stir to coat them in the sugar mixture. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the liquid thickens and turns into a syrup that coats the walnuts evenly.
  7. Caramelize the Walnuts:
  8. Keep stirring as the sugar begins to crystallize and then melts into a golden caramel. Be careful not to burn the sugar; adjust the heat if necessary.
  9. Transfer to Baking Sheet:
  10. Quickly spread the candied walnuts onto the prepared baking sheet, separating them with a fork if clumped together.
  11. Cool Completely:
  12. Allow the walnuts to cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cool, they will harden and become crunchy.