Candied Almonds

Stovetop Candied Almonds are a delightful treat that can elevate any occasion. With their irresistible crunch and sweet flavor, they make for a perfect snack during holidays or as a thoughtful homemade gift. These Candied Almonds are not only quick to prepare but also vegan-friendly, ensuring that everyone can enjoy them!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Make: In just 5 minutes, you can whip up these delicious treats.
• Versatile Snack: Perfect for parties, holiday gifts, or as a simple dessert.
• Addictive Flavor: The combination of sugar and cinnamon creates a sweet, aromatic experience.
• Easy Cleanup: Using a non-stick skillet makes for hassle-free cooking and cleanup.
• Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different spices or add-ins like cocoa powder or nutmeg.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Candied Almonds, gather the necessary tools before starting. This will streamline the process and ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick skillet
• Medium plate or baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick skillet: Prevents the almonds from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
• Parchment paper: Provides a non-stick surface to cool the almonds without mess.
• Spatula: Useful for stirring ingredients evenly while cooking.

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Ingredients

To make these delightful Candied Almonds, you’ll need:

For the Candied Coating

• 3 1/2 tablespoons white sugar (divided)
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 teaspoon butter
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon salt

For the Almonds

• 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 it aside. This will be where you cool your candied almonds.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a small skillet, add 3 tablespoons of sugar (save 1/2 tablespoon for later use), water, butter, ground cinnamon, and salt.

Step 3: Heat Mixture

Place the skillet over medium heat. Cook while stirring occasionally until bubbles start to form around the edges of the mixture.

Step 4: Add Almonds and Vanilla

Once bubbles appear, add in the raw whole almonds and vanilla extract. Continue cooking while stirring constantly until most of the liquid evaporates and everything comes together.

Step 5: Transfer to Parchment Paper

Quickly remove the pan from heat. Sprinkle in the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of sugar, give it a quick stir, and immediately transfer the nuts onto the prepared parchment paper. Make sure to separate them as much as possible.

Step 6: Cool and Store

Allow the candied almonds to cool completely. If any nuts are still sticking together, gently break them apart. Store your delicious treats in an airtight container once cooled.

Now you’re ready to enjoy these sweet and crunchy Candied Almonds!

How to Serve Candied Almonds

Candied almonds are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. They make an excellent snack on their own or can enhance other dishes with their sweet, crunchy texture. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make the most of your candied almonds.

As a Snack

• Enjoy them straight from the bowl for a quick and satisfying treat.
• Pair them with dried fruits for a sweet and chewy combination.

In Salads

• Add candied almonds to mixed greens for an extra crunch and sweetness.
• Toss them in a fruit salad to elevate the flavor profile with their sugary goodness.

On Desserts

• Sprinkle over ice cream or yogurt to add texture and flavor.
• Use as a topping for cakes or cupcakes, giving them a festive touch.

Gift Ideas

• Package them in decorative jars as homemade gifts for friends and family during holidays or special occasions.
• Create a custom gift basket with candied almonds, chocolates, and other treats.

How to Perfect Candied Almonds

Perfecting your candied almonds is simple with the right techniques. Keep these tips in mind for the best results:

• Use fresh almonds: Fresh, whole raw almonds yield the best crunch and flavor.
• Watch the heat: Maintain medium heat while cooking to prevent burning the sugar.
• Stir constantly: Stirring helps ensure even coating and prevents sticking.
• Use parchment paper: This allows for easy transfer and prevents sticking after cooling.
• Store properly: Keep cooled almonds in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Candied Almonds

Candied almonds can complement many side dishes, adding a sweet crunch that enhances flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Cheese Platter: Serve alongside assorted cheeses for a sweet contrast.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Pair with carrots or Brussels sprouts for added sweetness.
3. Fruit Compote: A fruity side dish that balances well with the nutty flavors.
4. Quinoa Salad: Mix them into quinoa salad for added texture and sweetness.
5. Sweet Potato Mash: Top mashed sweet potatoes with candied almonds for extra flavor.
6. Couscous Salad: Incorporate into couscous salads for a delightful crunch and sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistakes can happen in any cooking process, so it’s good to be aware of common pitfalls when making Candied Almonds.

• Bold measurement errors: Ensure you measure the sugar and almonds accurately. Too much sugar can lead to overly sticky nuts, while too little may not create that ideal crunch.

• Bold forgetting to stir: Stirring the mixture continuously is crucial once you add the almonds. This prevents burning and ensures even coating with the sugar mixture.

• Bold using the wrong pan: A non-stick skillet is highly recommended for easy cleanup. If you use a stainless steel pan, be prepared for some scrubbing after caramelizing.

• Bold skipping cooling time: Allow your candied almonds to cool completely before storing. This ensures they harden properly and prevents sticking.

• Bold not breaking apart clumps: After cooling, make sure to break apart any almonds that may have stuck together. This will ensure an even snackable texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep for up to 2 weeks for optimal freshness.

Freezing Candied Almonds

• Place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Candied Almonds

• Bold Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 3-5 minutes until crisp.
• Bold Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 10-15 seconds on a microwave-safe plate, stirring between sessions.
• Bold Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Candied Almonds and their answers.

How long do Candied Almonds last?

Candied Almonds can last up to two weeks when stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature.

Can I customize my Candied Almonds?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different spices like nutmeg or add cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist.

Are there nut-free alternatives?

While this recipe focuses on almonds, you could use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds instead for a similar sweet crunch without nuts.

What should I do if my almonds are sticky?

If your Candied Almonds turn out sticky, try reheating them briefly in the oven or stovetop to help dry them out slightly.

Can I use other nuts for this recipe?

Yes! While this recipe uses almonds, walnuts or pecans can also be used with great results. Just adjust cooking times as necessary.

Final Thoughts

These Candied Almonds are not only a delightful treat but also incredibly versatile! They make a fantastic snack, gift, or topping for desserts. Feel free to customize the flavors by adding spices or trying different nuts!