Introduction
Candied walnuts are walnuts coated in a caramelized sugar glaze, sometimes with honey, cinnamon, or vanilla for added flavor. They’re a versatile treat enjoyed around the world in both sweet and savory dishes. This recipe is easy to make at home and gives you full control over the sweetness and flavoring.
📝 Ingredients (Large Batch)
- 4 cups walnut halves
- 2 cups granulated sugar (or brown sugar for richer flavor)
- ½ cup water
- 2 tbsp honey (optional, for stickiness and shine)
- 1 tsp cinnamon (optional)
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare Walnuts
- Place walnuts in a large bowl and set aside.
- Make Syrup
- In a heavy-bottom pan, add sugar and water.
- Heat over medium until sugar dissolves and starts bubbling.
- Flavor the Syrup
- Stir in honey, cinnamon, vanilla, and a pinch of salt.
- Coat the Walnuts
- Add walnuts to the pan, stir well so each piece is coated.
- Continue stirring until the syrup thickens and coats the nuts evenly.
- Cool and Harden
- Spread the candied walnuts onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Let them cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
Serving Ideas
- As a snack on their own
- Topping for salads (pairs great with spinach, apples, goat cheese)
- Garnish for desserts like ice cream, brownies, or cakes
- Mixed into granola or trail mix
History
Walnuts have been cultivated since ancient times, prized by the Greeks and Romans for their rich flavor and nutrition. The tradition of candying nuts likely originated in Asia and the Middle East, where honey and nuts were combined in sweets. Today, candied walnuts are especially popular in American, French, and Chinese cuisine.
Benefits
- Walnuts: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, protein, and fiber.
- Honey: Natural sweetener with antibacterial properties.
- Cinnamon: Helps regulate blood sugar and adds warmth to flavor.
Nutrition (per ¼ cup serving)
- Calories: ~200
- Protein: 4 g
- Fat: 18 g (mostly healthy fats)
- Carbs: 10 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 8 g
Who Loves It?
- Snack lovers who crave sweet crunch
- Bakers for decorating and flavor boosting
- Salad lovers for extra crunch and sweetness
- Kids & adults alike as a healthy(ish) sweet treat
Conclusion
Candied walnuts are a delightful way to turn simple nuts into a gourmet treat. They’re easy to prepare, versatile, and packed with both flavor and nutrition. Once you try making them at home, you’ll never want store-bought again!
