If you’ve been searching for a magical snack or topping that combines crunch, sweetness, and a touch of spice, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Brown Sugar Candied Walnuts Recipe. It’s an absolute showstopper, whether you’re sprinkling them on salads, cocktails, or just enjoying them straight from the jar. The luscious brown sugar glaze wraps each walnut half in an irresistible coat of caramelized sweetness with a little warmth from cinnamon, making these candied walnuts the perfect blend of crunchy and chewy that you won’t be able to put down.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple, but each plays a crucial role in creating perfectly candied walnuts that balance sweetness, spice, and texture flawlessly.
- 2 cups walnut halves: The crunchy base that offers rich, buttery flavor and hearty texture.
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed: Provides deep caramel notes and sweetness that caramelizes beautifully.
- 1/4 cup water: Helps dissolve the sugar so it can coat the walnuts evenly.
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional): Adds a cozy warmth that elevates the flavor profile without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract: Finishes the walnuts with a fragrant, sweet aroma that rounds out the taste.
How to Make Brown Sugar Candied Walnuts Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
Begin by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will be where your walnuts cool and harden, preventing sticking and making cleanup a breeze. Having this ready saves you time after cooking.
Step 2: Create the Sugar Syrup
In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, water, cinnamon if you’re using it, and salt. Stir occasionally, watching closely until the sugar dissolves and the mixture starts bubbling – this is when the magic begins, as the syrup will soon turn to that perfect glaze.
Step 3: Coat the Walnuts
Stir the walnut halves into the bubbling syrup, making sure each piece is evenly coated. This step ensures every bite bursts with sweet, rich flavor and the walnuts don’t clump together.
Step 4: Cook Until Glazed
Keep stirring frequently for about 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the syrup to thicken and coat the walnuts beautifully. Be vigilant here — avoid burning the sugar by keeping the heat moderate and stirring thoroughly.
Step 5: Add Vanilla and Cool
Remove the pan from heat and immediately stir in the vanilla extract. The heat will blend in that lovely fragrance, sealing in the flavor. Then, spread the walnuts out in a single layer on your prepared parchment-lined baking sheet to cool. Be sure to separate any clusters so they crisp up perfectly.
Step 6: Let It Harden and Store
Allow the walnuts to cool completely. As they cool, the coating hardens into that perfect candied crunch. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container to keep their freshness and flavor for up to two weeks.
How to Serve Brown Sugar Candied Walnuts Recipe
Garnishes
Brown Sugar Candied Walnuts make a stunning garnish for green salads, lending a sweet crunch that contrasts beautifully with fresh veggies and tangy dressings. You can also sprinkle them over creamy desserts like cheesecake or ice cream for an extra layer of texture and sweetness.
Side Dishes
Pair these candied walnuts with roasted vegetables to add a sweet and nutty kick. They’re incredible alongside savory dishes, especially those featuring autumnal flavors such as butternut squash or roasted Brussels sprouts, boosting both flavor and visual appeal.
Creative Ways to Present
For entertaining, arrange the candied walnuts in a decorative bowl or glass jar alongside cheeses and cured meats for a gourmet charcuterie board. They also work wonderfully as a snack on their own or tossed into homemade granola or oatmeal for a delightful crunch and sweetness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Brown Sugar Candied Walnuts in an airtight container at room temperature. This simple step maintains their crisp coating and ensures they stay fresh and crunchy for up to two weeks—perfect for snacking or adding to recipes whenever you want.
Freezing
If you want to store them longer, you can freeze the candied walnuts in a sealed freezer-safe bag or container. When properly frozen, they will retain their flavor and texture for up to two months, making them a convenient treat to enjoy anytime.
Reheating
If your candied walnuts lose a bit of their crunch over time, quickly reheat them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. This refreshes their crispiness without melting the sugar coating.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?
Absolutely! Pecans, almonds, or even cashews work wonderfully with this Brown Sugar Candied Walnuts Recipe. Just adjust cooking time slightly as different nuts roast and caramelize differently.
Do I need to use cinnamon?
Cinnamon is optional but highly recommended. It adds a warm, inviting spice that complements the sweetness perfectly, though you can leave it out if you prefer a pure caramel flavor.
Why does my sugar sometimes crystallize?
Crystallization happens if the sugar mixture is stirred too vigorously or the pan isn’t clean of sugar crystals from previous use. Using water properly and controlling heat while stirring gently will help avoid this common issue.
How crunchy will these walnuts be?
The coating hardens into a firm, shiny shell that gives a delightful crunch around the naturally crunchy walnuts, creating a contrast of textures that’s truly addictive.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! This Brown Sugar Candied Walnuts Recipe is naturally vegan since it uses plant-based ingredients. Just be sure to use brown sugar that is certified vegan if that is a concern.
Final Thoughts
There’s something simply irresistible about the sweet, crunchy magic of this Brown Sugar Candied Walnuts Recipe. Whether you’re elevating a salad, snacking, or adding a touch of autumnal warmth to any dish, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience the joy these little candied treasures bring to your table!
Print
Brown Sugar Candied Walnuts Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Brown Sugar Candied Walnuts are a delightful sweet and crunchy treat perfect for snacking or adding a flavorful crunch to salads and desserts. Coated in a rich caramelized brown sugar glaze with a hint of cinnamon and vanilla, they offer a perfect balance of sweetness and warmth.
Ingredients
Walnuts
- 2 cups walnut halves
Syrup
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside to cool the candied walnuts after cooking.
- Make sugar syrup: In a large skillet, combine brown sugar, water, cinnamon (if using), and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the mixture starts to bubble gently.
- Add walnuts: Stir in the walnut halves ensuring they are evenly coated with the sugar mixture.
- Cook and coat: Continue cooking the mixture, stirring frequently for 5-7 minutes until it thickens and the walnuts are fully coated with the sticky syrup. Be careful to avoid burning the sugar.
- Add vanilla: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor of the glaze.
- Cool: Spread the coated walnuts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, separating any clumps immediately so they harden distinctly.
- Set: Allow the walnuts to cool completely on the baking sheet until the sugar coating hardens and forms a crisp shell.
- Store: Once cool, store the candied walnuts in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks to maintain freshness and crunch.
Notes
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Stir frequently during cooking to prevent the sugar from burning.
- You can omit the cinnamon for a simpler flavor or increase for more warmth.
- Make sure to spread walnuts immediately to avoid lumps as the sugar hardens quickly.
- Store in a cool, dry place to maintain texture.
