If you’re craving a snack that’s sweet, crunchy, and utterly addictive, then you’re going to fall head over heels for this Brown Sugar Candied Walnuts Recipe. It’s that perfect combination of rich walnuts enveloped in a caramelized brown sugar coating that makes every bite a little celebration. Whether you sprinkle them on salads, bake them into desserts, or simply enjoy them by the handful, these candied walnuts offer a delightful burst of flavor and texture that’s impossible to resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Brown Sugar Candied Walnuts Recipe lies in the simplicity of its ingredients — each one plays its part in creating that perfect balance of sweetness and spice with a hint of warmth. Knowing why each element matters will help you appreciate the final result even more.
- Walnut halves: The star ingredient providing a satisfying crunch and buttery flavor that’s perfect for candying.
- Brown sugar, packed: Brings deep molasses notes and the essential sweetness that coats the nuts.
- Water: Joins with sugar to create the syrup that caramelizes beautifully around the walnuts.
- Cinnamon (optional): Adds a cozy warmth that complements the sweetness and deepens the flavor profile.
- Salt: Balances out the sweetness and enhances the overall taste by heightening the rich walnut flavor.
- Vanilla extract: A splash at the end to provide a fragrant, smooth finish that ties everything together.
How to Make Brown Sugar Candied Walnuts Recipe
Step 1: Prepare your workspace
Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple step is crucial because it prevents the sticky walnuts from adhering to the tray once they’re candied, making clean-up a breeze and ensuring your walnuts separate easily when cooling.
Step 2: Create the sugar syrup
In a large skillet, combine the brown sugar, water, cinnamon if you’re using it, and salt. Warm the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar has dissolved completely and the syrup begins to bubble. This swirling syrup is the magic behind the beautifully glossy candy coating.
Step 3: Coat the walnuts evenly
Stir in the walnut halves to the bubbling syrup, making sure every piece gets fully coated in that sweet, syrupy goodness. This is where the transformation really begins, as the walnuts soak up the flavor and start to glisten.
Step 4: Cook until syrup thickens
Keep cooking and stirring frequently for around 5 to 7 minutes. The syrup will thicken and coat the walnuts evenly without burning, so be attentive. The smell of caramelizing sugar blending with cinnamon (if added) is absolutely irresistible at this point.
Step 5: Add vanilla extract
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. This final touch adds a roundness and aromatic sweetness that elevates the entire batch, making them taste even more decadent.
Step 6: Cool the walnuts
Immediately spread the walnuts on your prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Separate any clumps quickly so that they harden individually as they cool. Let them sit at room temperature until fully cooled and the coating is completely set.
Step 7: Store properly
Once cooled, transfer your Brown Sugar Candied Walnuts to an airtight container. Stored this way, they’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to two weeks, ready to add a sweet crunch whenever you need a little pick-me-up.
How to Serve Brown Sugar Candied Walnuts Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle these candied walnuts over leafy green salads, especially those with tangy dressings or sharp cheeses like goat or blue cheese. Their sweet crunch creates a beautifully balanced texture and flavor contrast that will wow your guests.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside roasted vegetables or warm grain bowls to bring an unexpected sweetness and crunch that enhances the entire meal. You can even toss some into oatmeal or yogurt for a breakfast upgrade that feels indulgent but still wholesome.
Creative Ways to Present
Use them as a decorating element on cakes, cupcakes, or even ice cream sundaes. Crushing a handful and sprinkling over desserts adds a delightful nutty caramel crunch that makes your homemade treats look and taste like they came from a gourmet bakery.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crispiness. Avoid humid areas, as moisture can soften the coating over time, dulling that satisfying crunch.
Freezing
You can freeze candied walnuts to extend their shelf life. Place them in a freezer-safe airtight container or bag, removing as much air as possible. When you’re ready to use, just thaw at room temperature — they’ll retain their texture and flavor beautifully.
Reheating
If the walnuts lose some crispness, reheating them briefly in a low oven (about 275°F or 135°C) for 5 minutes will revive their crunch without burning the sugar coating. Let them cool before serving to achieve the perfect texture again.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?
Absolutely! Pecans, almonds, or even cashews work great with this recipe. Just keep an eye on cooking times as some nuts may cook faster or slower depending on their size and moisture content.
Why is my sugar coating sticky?
If the sugar remains sticky, it may not have cooked long enough to reach the right caramelization point. Make sure to cook until the syrup thickens and the walnuts are well-coated, then spread them out to cool properly. Humidity can also affect the texture.
Is cinnamon necessary in the recipe?
Not at all! Cinnamon is optional and adds a warm, spicy note, but the candied walnuts taste fantastic without it as well. Feel free to omit or experiment with other spices like nutmeg or cardamom if you want to switch things up.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan since it uses no animal products. Just double-check that your vanilla extract and sugar brand are vegan friendly, as some sugars are processed with bone char.
How long do Brown Sugar Candied Walnuts last?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these walnuts will keep their best texture and flavor for about two weeks. Beyond that, they might start to lose their crispness but will still be safe to eat for a short time.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to try this Brown Sugar Candied Walnuts Recipe because it’s truly one of those magical little treats that elevate everything they touch. Whether for snacking, garnishing, or gifting, these candied walnuts bring so much joy with their effortless combination of sweet, crunchy, and warmly spiced goodness. You’re going to love the simple process and the rewarding, delicious results!
Print
Brown Sugar Candied Walnuts Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightfully crunchy and sweet, these Brown Sugar Candied Walnuts are a perfect snack or topping for salads and desserts. Coated in a rich caramelized brown sugar mixture with a hint of cinnamon and vanilla, these nuts offer a deliciously addictive treat ready in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 cups walnut halves
- 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, ensuring you’ll have a non-stick surface ready for the coated walnuts.
- 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.
- Coat walnuts: Stir in the walnut halves, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated with the sugar syrup for even sweetness.
- Cook and thicken coating: Continue cooking the walnuts in the skillet, stirring frequently for 5 to 7 minutes until the sugar mixture thickens into a sticky glaze and evenly coats the walnuts without burning.
- Add vanilla extract: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the vanilla extract to infuse a subtle aromatic flavor into the glaze.
- Cool walnuts: Spread the coated walnuts on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, carefully separating any pieces that may be sticking together.
- Harden the coating: Allow the walnuts to cool completely at room temperature, letting the sugar coating harden into a crisp shell.
- Store properly: Once cooled and hardened, store the candied walnuts in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to two weeks.
Notes
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Stir frequently during cooking to avoid burning the sugar syrup.
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of cayenne or nutmeg along with cinnamon.
- These candied walnuts make a great topping for salads, oatmeal, or desserts.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them crunchy up to two weeks.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
