If you have a weakness for that perfect sweet-and-spicy crunch, this Candied Nuts Recipe is exactly what your kitchen needs. It’s a delightful mix of warm spices, a hint of cayenne for a subtle kick, and sugars that caramelize beautifully over toasted nuts to create an irresistible snack or topping. This recipe transforms simple mixed nuts into a crowd-pleasing treat that’s perfect for gifting, snacking, or adding a special twist to your salads and desserts.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward yet incredibly impactful. Each one plays a role, from the rich sweetness of brown sugar to the zing of cayenne, making sure every bite of your candied nuts is bursting with flavor and a perfect texture.
- 2 pounds mixed nuts: A hearty and crunchy base that brings variety and earthy flavor.
- 2 large egg whites (room temperature): Acts as the sticky binder ensuring the sugar mixture clings evenly to the nuts.
- 2 Tbsp water: Helps achieve the perfect consistency when whipping the egg whites.
- â…” cup brown sugar: Adds a deep, molasses-like sweetness and enhances the caramelization.
- 1 â…“ cup white granulated sugar: Creates the crisp, crackly coating around each nut.
- 1 Tbsp kosher salt: Balances sweetness and amps up the overall flavor complexity.
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper: Lends a subtle heat that makes the candied nuts intriguingly addictive.
- 2 tsp cinnamon: Brings a warm, aromatic spice that pairs perfectly with the nuts’ natural oils.
How to Make Candied Nuts Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 300ºF. This moderate temperature is key to gently roasting the nuts while letting the sugar coating caramelize without burning. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat, which will prevent sticking and make cleanup so much easier.
Step 2: Coat the Nuts with Egg Whites
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together your egg whites and water until they become frothy and slightly thickened. This step is crucial for helping the sugar mixture stick to every nut, ensuring an even candy shell in the final bake. Stir in the mixed nuts until each one is coated beautifully.
Step 3: Mix and Add the Sugar and Spices
Combine the brown sugar, white sugar, kosher salt, cayenne pepper, and cinnamon in a separate bowl. This spice-sugar blend is what transforms the nuts from plain to spectacular. Pour the mixture over the egg-white-coated nuts and stir thoroughly to cover every inch with this flavorful coating. Then, spread the nuts out in a single layer on your prepared sheet to ensure they bake evenly.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake your coated nuts for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This gentle roasting time lets the sugars caramelize around each nut while toasting them to a perfect crunch. When you take them out, let the nuts cool completely on the pan—this is when the sugary crust hardens into that addictive crispness. If any nuts have clumped together, simply break them apart once cool.
How to Serve Candied Nuts Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle these candied nuts over your favorite salads to add a sweet, spicy crunch that elevates greens and vinaigrettes alike. They also make for an eye-catching garnish atop creamy desserts like cheesecake or ice cream, bringing texture and warmth in every bite.
Side Dishes
Pair your candied nuts with cheese and charcuterie boards as a sweet counterpoint to savory meats and creamy cheeses. Their flavor profile complements sharp cheddar, tangy goat cheese, and salty cured meats beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Package the candied nuts in festive jars or cellophane bags tied with a pretty ribbon for a thoughtful, homemade gift. You can also crush them lightly and sprinkle over oatmeal or yogurt bowls, turning everyday breakfasts into a special treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your candied nuts fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay perfectly crunchy and flavorful for up to two weeks—ideal for hiding in the pantry and enjoying little bursts of sweetness whenever a craving hits.
Freezing
If you want to keep them even longer, freezing is a great option. Place the cooled candied nuts in a freezer-safe bag or container. When properly sealed, they’ll maintain their texture and flavor for up to three months.
Reheating
To refresh the crunch after storage, simply warm the nuts in a low oven (about 250ºF) for 5 to 10 minutes. This quick step helps revive the caramelized coating and makes them taste just like freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use only one type of nut for this Candied Nuts Recipe?
Absolutely! While mixed nuts offer variety, using a single nut like pecans or almonds works perfectly and lets that nut’s natural flavor shine within the candied coating.
Is it necessary to use egg whites?
Egg whites are key to binding the sugary mixture to the nuts evenly. If you prefer a vegan version, you could experiment with aquafaba, but be mindful the texture and coating may vary.
How spicy is the cayenne in this recipe?
The cayenne provides a gentle warmth that balances the sweetness nicely without overwhelming your palate. Feel free to adjust the amount according to your spice preference.
Can I make this Candied Nuts Recipe gluten-free?
Yes! All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but just make sure your spices and sugars haven’t come into contact with gluten during processing.
What’s the best way to prevent nuts from sticking together?
After baking and while the nuts are still warm, gently separate any clusters before they cool completely. Using parchment or silicone mats also helps avoid sticking.
Final Thoughts
This Candied Nuts Recipe is an absolute winner for anyone who loves snacks that combine sweet, spicy, and crunchy all at once. It’s easy to make, endlessly versatile, and guaranteed to become your go-to when you want to impress guests or just treat yourself to a delicious homemade delight. Give it a try and watch it disappear fast!
Print
Candied Nuts Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 34 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Candied Nuts are a perfect sweet and spicy snack or topping, featuring a crunchy coating of sugar, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper baked to perfection. With a simple blend of seasonings and a quick baking process, they make an ideal treat for parties, holiday gifts, or everyday enjoyment.
Ingredients
Nut Mixture
- 2 pounds mixed nuts
- 2 large egg whites (room temperature)
- 2 Tbsp water
Coating
- â…” cup brown sugar
- 1 â…“ cup white granulated sugar
- 1 Tbsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- 2 tsp cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 300ºF. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Prepare Nut Coating: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the egg whites and water together until frothy. Add the mixed nuts to the bowl and stir them well to coat evenly with the egg white mixture.
- Mix Seasoning: In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar, white sugar, kosher salt, cayenne pepper, and cinnamon. Pour this sugar and spice mixture over the coated nuts and stir thoroughly to cover every nut with the flavorful coating.
- Bake the Nuts: Spread the nuts out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
- Cool and Separate: Remove the baked nuts from the oven and allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, break apart any clusters to separate the nuts before serving or storing.
Notes
- Make sure the egg whites are at room temperature for easier whipping and better coating.
- Stirring occasionally during baking helps prevent the nuts from burning and ensures an even coat.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to taste depending on your preference for spiciness.
- Store cooked candied nuts in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh and crunchy.
- Use parchment paper or silicone mats to avoid sticking and facilitate cleanup.
