Candied Walnuts

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.
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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.
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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
- Prep the Walnuts: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
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.
Featured Comments
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“Super easy and so flavorful! My family asked for seconds. Saving this one.”
“New favorite here — family favorite. rich was spot on.”
“Impressed! Clear steps and turned out amazing results. Perfect for busy nights.”
“Impressed! Clear steps and so flavorful results. Perfect for busy nights.”
“Impressed! Clear steps and absolutely loved results. Perfect for busy nights.”
“This shareable recipe was so flavorful — the charred really stands out. Thanks!”
“Super easy and absolutely loved! My family asked for seconds. Saving this one.”
Grainy, not glazed, do not recommend