These Candied Walnuts are a perfect blend of sweetness and crunch, making them the ideal snack or topping for salads, desserts, or even just to enjoy on their own. Coated in a delicious sugar glaze, these walnuts are simple to make and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re using them to elevate a dish or just want a sweet treat, candied walnuts are a must-try recipe that your family will love.

Family Favorite: Why We Love Candied Walnuts

I first made these candied walnuts during the holiday season as a topping for a salad, but they quickly became a household favorite. My husband and kids love snacking on them straight from the jar, and they’ve become a staple on our kitchen counter. They’re also perfect for gifting during the holidays or adding that extra special touch to a dish.

Why You’ll Love Candied Walnuts

• Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have delicious candied walnuts in no time.
• Versatile: Great for snacking, as a topping for salads, oatmeal, or even desserts.
• Perfectly Sweet: The sugar glaze gives these walnuts the ideal balance of sweetness without being too overpowering.
• Great for Gifting: These make for a wonderful homemade gift during the holidays or any special occasion.

Ingredients Notes For Candied Walnuts

• Walnuts: Fresh, high-quality walnuts make all the difference in flavor and texture.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and creates a crunchy caramelized coating.
• Cinnamon: A pinch of cinnamon enhances the flavor and adds a warm, comforting aroma.
• Butter: Helps create a smooth and glossy coating for the walnuts.
• Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla adds depth of flavor to the sugar glaze.

Recipe Steps for Candied Walnuts

1. Prep the Walnuts: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
2. Make the Sugar Glaze: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract, stirring constantly until the sugar has melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Coat the Walnuts: Add the walnuts to the skillet and stir to coat them evenly in the sugar mixture. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the walnuts are fully glazed.
4. Cool: Transfer the glazed walnuts to the prepared baking sheet, spreading them out in a single layer. Let them cool completely to allow the sugar to harden.
5. Break Apart: Once cooled, break the walnuts apart and store them in an airtight container.

Storage Options

• Room Temperature: Store the candied walnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
• Refrigerate: For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
• Freeze: You can freeze candied walnuts in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before using.

Variations & Substitutions

• Add a Pinch of Salt: A small sprinkle of sea salt can enhance the sweetness and give the walnuts a savory twist.
• Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper for a sweet and spicy combination.
• Use Other Nuts: This recipe works wonderfully with pecans, almonds, or cashews if you want to mix it up.

Candied Walnuts

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Crunchy walnuts coated in a sweet caramelized sugar glaze, perfect for snacking, topping salads, or adding to desserts!

Ingredients

• 1 cup walnut halves
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon optional, for extra flavor
• Pinch of salt
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract optional

Instructions

• Toast the Walnuts: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the walnuts for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are lightly golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
• Melt the Sugar: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, water, and butter. Stir constantly until the sugar is melted and the mixture begins to bubble.
• Add Flavorings: Stir in the cinnamon (if using), vanilla extract (optional), and a pinch of salt. Continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
• Coat the Walnuts: Add the toasted walnuts to the saucepan and stir quickly to coat them evenly with the caramelized sugar mixture. Make sure all the walnuts are fully coated.
• Cool: Transfer the candied walnuts onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or a silicone mat. Use a spatula or fork to separate the walnuts so they don’t stick together as they cool. Let them cool completely.
• Serve or Store: Once cooled and hardened, serve the candied walnuts as a snack, salad topping, or dessert garnish. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

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