Ready in: 40 minutes · Serves: 6-8 · Technique: Roasting · Storage: Airtight container at room temperature.Quick Answer
The delightful Roasted Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts are created by combining nuts with a sweet, frothy egg white mixture, coating them in cinnamon-sugar, roasting until golden, and cooling for the perfect holiday snack.As I sit by my window overlooking the vibrant streets of New York City, the air is crisp, and the festive spirit is palpable. With the holidays just around the corner, my kitchen is buzzing with the comforting scents of cinnamon and sugar-a sure sign that it's time to whip up my go-to holiday treat: Roasted Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts. These irresistible little morsels not only make a delightful snack but also make for perfect gifts and festive decorations for any holiday spread.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Irresistibly crunchy and sweet, making them the perfect festive snack.
- Easily customizable with different nuts and spices to suit your palate.
- Great for gifting, adding a personal touch to holiday presents.
- Simple and quick to prepare, perfect for busy holiday schedules.
- Fills your home with warm, inviting aromas that capture the spirit of the season.
Ingredients
This delightful recipe combines a variety of nuts with rich cinnamon and sugar for a perfect holiday treat.
Nuts
- 1 cup of pecans
- 1 cup of walnuts
- 1 cup of almonds
- 1 cup of hazelnuts
Coating
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon of salt
- 1 egg white
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon of water
How to Make Roasted Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps to create deliciously sweet and crunchy candied nuts that are perfect for any festive occasion.
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to create a non-stick surface for your nuts.
Step 2: Whisk the Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg white, vanilla extract, and water until frothy. This frothy mixture will act as the glue, ensuring that the sugar and spices adhere beautifully to the nuts.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt. The sweet aroma of cinnamon will fill your kitchen, igniting your holiday spirit.
Step 4: Coat the Nuts
Add the nuts to the egg white mixture, tossing them to ensure they're evenly coated. Then, sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the nuts until they are fully covered. The nuts should glisten, creating a delectable glossy finish.
Step 5: Spread and Bake
Spread the coated nuts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they turn a beautiful golden color. The irresistible aroma of roasting nuts will fill your home!
Step 6: Cool and Crisp
Once done baking, remove the nuts from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet. This cooling process allows them to crisp up, transforming them into a delightful snack that's hard to resist.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skip the Egg White: Not using egg white can result in the sugar not adhering properly to the nuts.
- Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: Ensure the nuts are in a single layer; overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and sogginess.
- Forgetting to Stir: Stirring halfway through the baking is crucial to achieve even roasting and a perfect crunch.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Feel free to mix different types of nuts according to your preference-cashews and pecans work wonderfully!
- For a bit of flavor variation, you can add a pinch of nutmeg or even some cocoa powder to the cinnamon-sugar mix.
- These candied nuts store beautifully in an airtight container for up to two weeks, making them perfect for holiday gifting.
Variations
- Substitute pecans for almonds or walnuts for a different flavor profile.
- Add a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Experiment with different sugars, such as brown sugar or coconut sugar.
How to Serve
- Serve in decorative bowls during holiday gatherings.
- Package in gift jars for a homemade holiday gift.
- Enjoy as a topping on salads or yogurt for added crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the nuts a day in advance and store them in an airtight container.
- Storage: Store your Roasted Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
- Reheating: No need to reheat; enjoy them at room temperature for the best texture.
- Freezing: These nuts can be frozen for up to three months if stored properly in an airtight container or freezer bag.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
During my testing, I discovered that patience really pays off-letting the nuts cool completely guarantees that delightful crunch we all crave! This recipe has become a beloved tradition in my home, reminding me of the joy of the holiday season with every sweet, cinnamon-scented bite.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 5 cups · Serving Size: ¼ cup
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~210 calories · 3g protein · 18g carbs · 15g fat
Recipe by:
Festive Roasted Cinnamon Sugar Nuts for the Holidays
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg white, vanilla extract, and water until frothy.
- In another bowl, mix the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt.
- Add the nuts to the egg white mixture, tossing them to ensure they're evenly coated. Then, sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the nuts until fully covered.
- Spread the coated nuts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Remove the nuts from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet.
Notes
FAQs
Can I use different types of nuts for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can mix and match your favorite nuts. Cashews and pecans are great alternatives!
How long do these candied nuts last?
When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they can last up to two weeks.
Is it necessary to use egg white?
Yes, the egg white is essential for helping the sugar and spices adhere to the nuts effectively.
Can I add other spices to the candied nuts?
Yes, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cocoa powder for extra flavor variation.
What should I do if my nuts aren't staying crunchy?
Make sure to let them cool completely after baking, as this helps them crisp up nicely. Storing them in an airtight container is also important to maintain their crunch.
