Candied Almonds

Stovetop Candied Almonds are a delightful treat that can elevate any occasion. These crunchy, sweet snacks are perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy nights in, or as thoughtful homemade gifts. With their irresistible flavor and simple preparation, you’ll find yourself making these candied almonds time and time again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: You can whip up these candied almonds in just 5 minutes, making them perfect for spontaneous snack cravings.
• Addictive Flavor: The combination of sugar and cinnamon creates a sweet and aromatic crunch that is hard to resist.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them on their own, sprinkle them on salads, or use them as a topping for desserts.
• Vegan-Friendly Option: This recipe is naturally vegan, ensuring everyone can enjoy the deliciousness.
• Great for Gifting: Pack them in a jar for a thoughtful homemade gift during festive seasons.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your candied almonds, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick skillet
• Parchment paper
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Medium plate or baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick skillet: Ensures easy cooking and cleanup while preventing the sugar from sticking.
• Parchment paper: Provides a non-stick surface to transfer the almonds without hassle.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring the mixture evenly without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

To make delicious Stovetop Candied Almonds, gather the following ingredients:

For the Candied Almonds

• 3 1/2 tablespoons white sugar (divided)
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 teaspoon butter
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup whole raw almonds
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Candied Almonds

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

Start by lining a medium plate or baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside. This step is important to ensure your candied almonds don’t stick together once cooked.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Skillet

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

Step 3: Cook Until Bubbly

Place the skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until you see bubbles forming around the edges of the mixture. This indicates that the sugar is melting properly.

Step 4: Add Almonds and Vanilla

Once bubbling, add the whole raw almonds along with vanilla extract. Stir constantly until most of the liquid evaporates and it forms a thick coating around the almonds.

Step 5: Transfer to Parchment Paper

Quickly remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of sugar over the almonds. Give it a quick stir to mix well before transferring them onto your prepared parchment paper. Spread them out as much as possible to prevent clumping.

Step 6: Cool and Store

Allow your candied almonds to cool completely on the parchment paper. If any are sticking together after cooling, simply break them apart. Store your delicious candied almonds in an airtight container to keep them fresh!

How to Serve Candied Almonds

Candied almonds are a versatile treat that can enhance various dishes or be enjoyed on their own. Here are some delightful ways to serve them:

As a Snack

• Enjoy them straight from the jar for a quick energy boost.
• Pair with dried fruits for a sweet and crunchy trail mix.

In Salads

• Toss candied almonds into mixed greens for added texture and sweetness.
• Combine with citrus segments and goat cheese for a refreshing salad.

With Cheese Boards

• Include candied almonds on a cheese platter alongside assorted cheeses and crackers.
• They make an excellent contrast to savory cheeses like cheddar or gouda.

As Dessert Toppings

• Sprinkle over ice cream or yogurt for an extra layer of flavor.
• Use them as a garnish on cakes or cupcakes for a festive touch.

How to Perfect Candied Almonds

Creating perfect candied almonds is all about technique and timing. Here are some tips to ensure your batch turns out delicious every time:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh raw almonds yield the best flavor and texture. Check for any signs of rancidity before using.
• Monitor the heat: Keep an eye on the skillet while cooking. Medium heat helps prevent burning and allows for even caramelization.
• Stir consistently: Stirring constantly while cooking ensures even coating of the sugar mixture, preventing clumping.
• Work quickly: Once you remove the pan from heat, act fast to transfer the almonds to parchment paper. This prevents them from sticking together as they cool.
• Store properly: Keep the cooled almonds in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crunchiness.

Best Side Dishes for Candied Almonds

Candied almonds pair wonderfully with many side dishes, enhancing both flavor and texture. Here are some complementary options:

1. Savory Roasted Veggies: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender provides a great balance to the sweetness of candied almonds.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs and lemon complements the crunchy sweetness of the almonds perfectly.
3. Cheese Platter: Create a vibrant cheese platter featuring assorted cheeses that contrast with the sweet nuts, such as blue cheese or aged cheddar.
4. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad with berries, melons, and citrus adds brightness that pairs beautifully with candied almonds.
5. Spicy Hummus: Serve candied almonds alongside spicy hummus for an interesting blend of flavors—sweet meets savory!
6. Mixed Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad topped with vinaigrette allows the sweet crunch of candied almonds to shine through without overpowering other flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the perfect candied almonds, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes people often make and how to prevent them.

• Using the wrong pan: Non-stick skillets are ideal for this recipe. They help in easy removal of the sugar coating without sticking.
• Not stirring enough: Constant stirring is crucial when cooking the almonds. This prevents burning and ensures an even coating of sugar.
• Overcooking the mixture: Watch for bubbles as a sign to add the almonds. Overcooking can lead to a burnt flavor.
• Skipping the parchment paper: Always line your plate or baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps in easy transfer and cooling of the candied almonds.
• Ignoring cooling time: Patience is key! Letting them cool completely allows them to harden properly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store candied almonds in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.

Freezing Candied Almonds

• Place cooled candied almonds in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Candied Almonds

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5 minutes, checking regularly.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 10-15 seconds until warm, being cautious not to overdo it.
• Stovetop: Quickly reheat in a dry skillet over low heat, stirring frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make candied almonds?

To make candied almonds, combine sugar, water, butter, cinnamon, salt, and vanilla in a skillet. Cook until bubbly, then add raw almonds and stir until coated.

Can I use other nuts instead of almonds?

Absolutely! You can substitute with cashews, pecans, or walnuts. Adjust cooking time if necessary based on nut size.

What is the best way to store leftover candied almonds?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Can I customize my candied almonds?

Yes! Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or add cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist.

Are candied almonds healthy?

While they contain sugar, they also provide healthy fats and protein from the almonds. Enjoy them in moderation!

Final Thoughts

These candied almonds are not only quick and easy to prepare but also versatile and delicious. Perfect as a homemade gift or a holiday snack, you can customize them with various spices or nuts. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; your friends and family will be delighted!