There’s something magical about the aroma of cinnamon and sugar wafting through the house, like a cozy blanket for the senses. I stumbled upon these candied almonds during a holiday market last winter, and ever since, they’ve become my go-to treat—not just for special occasions, but for those random Tuesday afternoons when life needs a sprinkle of sweetness. The best part? You don’t need a special reason to enjoy them; they transform everyday moments into something a little more special.
Steps
- Prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with a silicone mat or parchment paper and greasing it lightly with butter.
- In a nonstick pan, mix granulated sugar, water, vanilla extract, and cinnamon, then bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
- Add the whole almonds to the boiling mixture, and continue to cook while stirring until the liquid evaporates and the sugar crystallizes on the almonds.
- Once crystallized, spread the almonds onto the prepared baking sheet, using forks or a spatula to separate them.
- Allow the almonds to cool for about 15 minutes, then store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons butter (for greasing)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 2 cups whole almonds
Nutritional Values
Calories: 712kcal | Carbohydrates: 56g | Protein: 20g | Fat: 50g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 12g | Monounsaturated Fat: 30g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 8mg | Sodium: 24mg | Potassium: 708mg | Fiber: 12g | Sugar: 38g | Vitamin A: 88IU | Vitamin C: 0.04mg | Calcium: 272mg | Iron: 4mg
FAQ
- How do you make easy candied almonds?
- To make simple candied almonds, cook them in a mixture of cinnamon, sugar, and water in a pan. Stir continuously until the water evaporates and the sugar crystallizes, coating the almonds. This process usually takes less than 15 minutes.
- Are candied almonds a healthy snack?
- While candied almonds are not the healthiest snack due to their sugar content, this recipe uses less sugar than many others, making them a slightly healthier option compared to those found at festivals.
- How should I store candied almonds, and how long do they last?
- Store candied almonds in an airtight container at room temperature for one to two weeks to maintain their freshness and crunch. For best flavor, consider making them the day before or on the day of serving.
- What tools are recommended for making candied almonds?
- A large nonstick pan is essential for making candied almonds. Additionally, using a silicone baking mat or parchment paper is helpful for cooling and storing the almonds without sticking.
Tips
- Constant stirring is key: To ensure the almonds don’t burn and are evenly coated with the crystallized sugar, make sure to stir the mixture continuously while cooking.
- Proper storage for freshness: To maintain the crunchiness of your candied almonds, store them in an airtight container, preferably in the fridge, to extend their freshness.
- Timing for optimal flavor: For the best taste and texture, prepare the almonds the day before or on the same day as your event or gathering.
- Use a baking mat or parchment paper: Grease a silicone baking mat or parchment paper with butter before pouring the almonds onto it. This will help prevent the almonds from sticking and make cleanup easier.
Equipment
- Large Nonstick Pan – Essential for cooking the almonds in the cinnamon-sugar mixture without them sticking or burning.
- Silicone Baking Mat – Used for lining the baking sheet to prevent the almonds from sticking and to make cleanup easier.
- Airtight Container – Important for storing the candied almonds to keep them fresh and maintain their crunch.
