Candied Almonds

Stovetop Candied Almonds are the perfect blend of sweetness and crunch, making them an irresistible snack for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing for a festive gathering or simply treating yourself, these candied almonds are quick to make and will impress your friends and family. In just 5 minutes, you can create a delightful treat that’s great for sharing or gifting!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can whip up these delicious candied almonds in no time.
• Versatile Snack: Perfect for holiday gatherings, movie nights, or as a topping for desserts, these almonds fit any occasion.
• Vegan-Friendly Option: This recipe can easily be adapted to fit vegan diets by replacing butter with plant-based alternatives.
• Customizable Flavor: Feel free to add your favorite spices or sweeteners to create a unique twist on this classic treat.
• Perfect Gift Idea: Pack them in cute jars to give as gifts during the holiday season – everyone loves homemade snacks!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick skillet or stainless steel skillet
• Measuring spoons
• Medium plate or baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick skillet: Makes it easier to cook the almonds without them sticking or burning.
• Parchment paper: Helps in transferring the nuts after cooking without making a mess.

Ingredients

To create these delicious Candied Almonds, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Candied Almonds

• 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 Workspace

Line a medium plate or baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. This will help you transfer the almonds once they’re candied.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Skillet

Add 3 tablespoons of sugar (save 1/2 tablespoon for later), water, butter, cinnamon, and salt into your chosen skillet.

Step 3: Heat Until Bubbly

Place over medium heat and stir occasionally until bubbles begin to form around the edges.

Step 4: Add Almonds and Vanilla

Once bubbles form, add the raw whole almonds and vanilla extract. Stir constantly until most of the liquid evaporates.

Step 5: Finish Cooking Quickly

Remove the pan from heat swiftly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of sugar over the almond mixture. Give it a quick stir before transferring it to the prepared parchment paper, ensuring you separate any clumps.

Step 6: Cool and Store

Let the candied almonds cool completely. Break apart any that are sticking together and store them in an airtight container for freshness.

Enjoy your homemade Candied Almonds!

How to Serve Candied Almonds

Candied almonds are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to serve them as a snack, use them in dishes, or gift them, here are some creative serving ideas.

As a Snack

• Perfect for munching on during movie nights or casual gatherings.
• A sweet and crunchy alternative to traditional chips.

In Salads

• Add candied almonds to salads for a sweet crunch that pairs well with greens and vinaigrettes.
• They complement fruit salads beautifully, enhancing both flavor and texture.

As a Topping

• Sprinkle candied almonds over yogurt or oatmeal for a delicious breakfast boost.
• Use as a topping for ice cream or desserts for added sweetness and crunch.

Gift Packaging

• Package candied almonds in decorative jars or boxes as thoughtful homemade gifts.
• Perfect for holidays or special occasions, making every celebration extra special.

How to Perfect Candied Almonds

Creating the perfect batch of candied almonds requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your nuts turn out just right.

• Use Fresh Almonds: Fresh raw almonds provide the best flavor and texture. Avoid stale nuts for optimal taste.

• Watch the Heat: Cooking over medium heat helps caramelize the sugar without burning it. Adjust as necessary to maintain a gentle simmer.

• Stir Constantly: Stirring constantly while cooking ensures even coating and prevents sugar from burning. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crunch.

• Spread Quickly: When transferring the almonds to parchment paper, work quickly to separate them. This prevents clumping and ensures an even finish.

• Store Properly: Keep your candied almonds in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crispness.

Best Side Dishes for Candied Almonds

Candied almonds pair beautifully with various side dishes, enhancing your meal with their sweet crunch. Here are some great options.

1. Roasted Vegetables: Complement the sweetness with savory roasted veggies like carrots and Brussels sprouts; they create a wonderful balance.

2. Cheese Platter: Serve alongside assorted cheeses like brie or gouda; the contrast of flavors is delightful.

3. Fruit Salad: Fresh fruits like berries or citrus add brightness; sprinkle candied almonds on top for extra texture.

4. Quinoa Salad: Mix into a quinoa salad with herbs and feta cheese; it adds both flavor and visual appeal.

5. Rice Pilaf: Pair with rice pilaf flavored with spices; the sweetness of the nuts enhances the dish’s overall profile.

6. Crispy Kale Chips: The crunch from both kale chips and almonds makes for an exciting texture combination; serve as a light snack option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making candied almonds can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some tips to ensure your candied almonds turn out delicious every time.

• Using pre-roasted almonds: Fresh raw almonds are essential for achieving the right texture. Always start with whole raw almonds for the best results.
• Skipping the parchment paper: Without parchment paper, your candied almonds will stick together and may be difficult to separate. Always line your plate or baking sheet to facilitate easy removal.
• Not stirring enough: Constant stirring is key to preventing burning and ensuring even coating. Be diligent while cooking to achieve a uniform caramelization.
• Overcooking the sugar mixture: Keep an eye on the sugar as it cooks; it can quickly go from perfect to burnt. Remove from heat once you see bubbles and a light golden color.
• Failing to cool completely: Patience is important! Allow your almonds to cool fully before breaking them apart; this helps them maintain their crispiness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
• Keep in a cool, dry place away from moisture.

Freezing Candied Almonds

• Candied almonds can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Use a freezer-safe container or bag, ensuring all air is removed before sealing.

Reheating Candied Almonds

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and spread on a baking sheet for about 5 minutes until warm and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 15-20 seconds, stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, stirring constantly until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making candied almonds that might help you along the way.

What are Candied Almonds?

Candied almonds are whole raw almonds coated in a sweet sugar mixture, often flavored with spices like cinnamon. They make a delightful snack or gift.

Can I customize my Candied Almonds?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different spices such as nutmeg or cardamom, or add other flavorings like chocolate or coconut for variety.

How do I know when my sugar mixture is ready?

Look for bubbles forming around the edges of the pan and a light golden color. This indicates it’s time to add the almonds!

Can I use nuts other than almonds?

Yes! This recipe works well with other nuts like pecans, walnuts, or cashews if you’re looking for variety.

Final Thoughts

These candied almonds are not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. Perfect as a holiday snack or gift, they can be customized with various flavors to suit your taste. Try making them today and enjoy their delightful crunch and sweetness!

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: Alexia
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x

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Description

Experience irresistible crunch with these quick Candied Almonds! Perfect for snacking or gifting—try this easy recipe today!

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Ingredients

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• 3 1/2 tablespoons white sugar (divided)
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 teaspoon butter (or plant-based alternative)
• 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 non-stick or stainless steel skillet, combine 3 tablespoons of sugar, water, butter, cinnamon, and salt over medium heat.
3. Stir occasionally until bubbles form around the edges.
4. Add the raw almonds and vanilla extract; stir continuously until most liquid evaporates.
5. Quickly remove from heat, sprinkle remaining sugar over the mixture, and stir before transferring to parchment paper.
6. Allow to cool completely before breaking apart any clusters and store in an airtight container.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 170
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 40mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 0mg