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5-Minute Candied Walnuts: A Quick and Delicious Snack
If you’re craving a sweet and crunchy snack, look no further than these 5-minute candied walnuts! They’re the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and nutty, and best of all, they come together in just five minutes. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a topping for your salad, or an addition to a cheese board, these candied walnuts are a game-changer. Here’s how to make this easy, irresistible treat.
Why You’ll Love These Candied Walnuts:
- Quick and Easy: As the name suggests, this recipe takes only five minutes to prepare, making it perfect for a last-minute snack or topping.
- Versatile: You can use candied walnuts in salads, on top of yogurt, in baked goods, or just enjoy them as a snack on their own.
- Customizable: The sweetness and flavor of the walnuts can be easily adjusted to suit your taste.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup walnut halves (raw, unsalted)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (you can also use brown sugar for a richer flavor)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional for extra warmth)
- Pinch of salt (to balance out the sweetness)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional for added flavor)
Instructions:
1. Heat the Pan
Start by heating a medium skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Once the pan is hot, add the butter and let it melt completely. Be sure to stir it occasionally to avoid burning.
2. Toast the Walnuts
Add the walnuts to the pan, stirring them occasionally to ensure they get evenly toasted. Toast the walnuts for about 2 minutes, or until they start to become fragrant and lightly golden brown. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t burn.
3. Candy the Walnuts
Once the walnuts are toasted, sprinkle the sugar over the nuts, then add the cinnamon (if using) and salt. Stir constantly to coat the walnuts in the sugar mixture. After a minute or so, the sugar will start to melt, creating a glossy, caramelized coating on the walnuts. Continue stirring to ensure the walnuts are evenly coated.
4. Add Vanilla (Optional)
Once the walnuts are fully coated with the melted sugar, remove the pan from the heat. Stir in vanilla extract, if you like, for an extra layer of flavor.
5. Cool and Serve
Transfer the candied walnuts to a sheet of parchment paper or a baking sheet to cool. They’ll harden as they cool, giving you that signature crunc
