Easy Candied Almonds
Every time I make Easy Candied Almonds, I can’t help but smile. There’s something magical about the aroma that fills my kitchen when the almonds bake, conjuring memories of cozy evenings with my family. I remember my grandmother making these for special occasions, and now I find myself whipping up a batch just for a quiet night in. The sweet and crunchy texture of these almonds perfectly complements any gathering. They’re not just snacks; they are little moments of happiness packed in a jar, perfect for sharing or enjoying alone. Whenever I bring these to a party, they disappear in no time!
Recipe Snapshot
1 hr 30 mins
10 mins
80 mins
Medium
200 kcal
4 g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
16 g
Oven, Baking Sheet, Wooden Spoon, Whisk, Mixing Bowl
Why This Easy Candied Almonds Shines
They Are Irresistibly Crunchy
The first bite of Easy Candied Almonds is unforgettable. The almonds are roasted to perfection, offering a satisfying crunch that keeps you coming back for more. Each bite is enhanced by the sweet coating that caramelizes during baking, creating a delightful contrast in texture.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a casual movie night or a festive gathering, these almonds fit right in. They make excellent party favors or additions to gift baskets. I often find myself making extra batches to share with friends and family. The joy of gifting these delicious treats is unparalleled!
Quick and Simple to Make
Making Easy Candied Almonds doesn’t require advanced culinary skills or hours of preparation. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a gourmet treat that looks and tastes amazing. It’s a perfect recipe for novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.
Healthy Snacking Option
These almonds are a guilt-free indulgence. Packed with healthy fats and protein, they can serve as a nutritious snack that satisfies your sweet tooth without the heavy calories of traditional desserts. When I’m craving something sweet, I reach for these instead of sugary candies.
Customizable Flavor
One of the best parts about Easy Candied Almonds is how versatile the flavor can be. You can easily adjust the spices or use different nuts to create your variation. Want a hint of spice? Add some cayenne pepper! Feeling adventurous? Experiment with different types of sugars. The possibilities are endless!
A Memorable Gift
Gift these delicious almonds in a cute jar, and you have a thoughtful present for friends and family. I love to prepare them during the holidays and share them with neighbors. It’s a sweet way to spread joy and show you care!
Ingredients You’ll Need for Easy Candied Almonds
The ingredients for Easy Candied Almonds are both simple and effective. Each one plays an essential role in achieving that perfect sweet and crunchy finish. The raw almonds, the star of this recipe, are rich in flavor and nutrients, while the sugar provides that delightful sweetness we crave. Together, they create a satisfying treat that’s hard to resist!
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: This adds richness and helps the almonds toast beautifully.
- 24 ounces raw almonds: The main ingredient, providing crunch and a nutty flavor.
- 2 large egg whites: These help the sugar adhere to the almonds, creating a nice coating.
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Adds a lovely warmth and depth of flavor.
- 1 and 1/4 cups granulated sugar: The sweet element that caramelizes during baking.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: A classic spice that complements the sweetness beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon sea salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.
Easy Candied Almonds Instructions
Making Easy Candied Almonds is as enjoyable as eating them! You’ll get to experience the delightful process as the ingredients transform into a crunchy, sweet snack. Just follow these simple steps.
- Preheat your oven to 250 degrees F. This low temperature ensures that the almonds cook evenly without burning, enhancing their flavor.
- Next, place butter on a large baking sheet and melt it in the oven. You want it to become perfectly melted, creating a rich base for the almonds to roast on.
- Once the butter is melted, remove the baking sheet from the oven and set it aside. Be careful, as it will be hot!
- In a separate small bowl, combine the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and sea salt. Mixing these dry ingredients now will allow their flavors to meld together beautifully.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk the egg whites with the vanilla extract until they become frothy. This step is crucial as it provides the sticky layer that will help the sugar adhere to the almonds.
- Add the raw almonds to the frothy egg mixture. Toss them gently to coat each almond thoroughly with the mixture.
- Now, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the coated almonds. Stir again, ensuring that every almond is evenly coated in sweetness.
- Spread the coated almonds in a single layer on the buttered baking sheet. Make sure they’re not crowded; this allows them to roast evenly and get that perfect crunch.
- Bake the almonds in the preheated oven, stirring every 20 minutes, for 1 hour and 20 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want them golden brown but not burnt!
- After baking, allow the almonds to cool on the baking sheet for at least 15 minutes. This cooling period is essential as it helps them crisp up.
- Finally, store any leftovers in an airtight container. They can last for up to two weeks, but they probably won’t last that long!
Things Worth Knowing
- Use fresh ingredients: The quality of your almonds and butter can significantly affect the flavor of your Easy Candied Almonds. Always opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients.
- Don’t rush the baking: Baking at a low temperature allows the almonds to cook through evenly. Rushing this process could result in burnt nuts.
- Stir frequently: Stirring the almonds every 20 minutes ensures they roast evenly and don’t stick to the baking sheet.
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add other spices or extracts to create unique flavor profiles that suit your taste.
Substitutions and Tips
Here are some helpful tips to enhance your experience making Easy Candied Almonds. These tips will ensure you create the perfect batch every time.
- Storage: Store your candied almonds in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh for up to two weeks!
- Freezing: You can freeze these almonds for up to three months. Just make sure they are in an airtight bag or container to prevent freezer burn.
- Pairing: These almonds are perfect for snacking on their own, but they can also be used as a topping for salads or desserts!
- Variations: Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or using different nuts like pecans or walnuts for a new twist.
- Serving size: Adjust the amounts based on how many people you’re serving. This recipe is easy to scale up or down!
What to Pair With Easy Candied Almonds
Pairing Easy Candied Almonds with various dishes or occasions can elevate your dining experience. Here are some great ideas:
- Cheese boards: These almonds add a sweet crunch to cheese boards, complementing cheeses like brie or gouda.
- Holiday gatherings: Perfect for festive occasions, these almonds bring a sweet touch to your holiday table.
- Salads: Sprinkle them over salads for added texture and sweetness, making your greens more exciting.
- Snack time: Enjoy these almonds as a standalone snack during movie nights or when entertaining guests.
- Gift giving: Fill a jar with these almonds for a thoughtful homemade gift that friends and family will love.
FAQ
Conclusion
In summary, Easy Candied Almonds is a delightful recipe that combines simple ingredients with a touch of love. Their sweet crunch makes them a crowd favorite, perfect for snacking or sharing. I encourage you to try making these tasty treats for your next gathering or simply to enjoy at home. You’ll be glad you did!
Easy Candied Almonds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 250 degrees F.
- Place butter on a large baking sheet and melt it in the oven.
- Once melted, remove the baking sheet from the oven and set it aside.
- In a small bowl, combine granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and sea salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk egg whites with vanilla extract until frothy.
- Add raw almonds to the frothy mixture and toss to coat.
- Sprinkle the sugar mixture over the coated almonds and stir again.
- Spread the coated almonds onto the buttered baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven, stirring every 20 minutes, for 1 hour and 20 minutes.
- Cool on the baking sheet for at least 15 minutes before serving.
- Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
