You know that warm, sweet smell that floats through holiday markets and makes you want to follow your nose? Yep, that’s candied almonds and now, you can make them right in your own kitchen. These Candied Almonds are crunchy, sweet, and coated in a cinnamon-sugar glaze that’s downright addictive. They’re perfect for snacking, gifting, or tossing into salads for a sweet crunch. The best part? They’re surprisingly easy to whip up and will make your whole house smell like a bakery. Trust me, once you taste one, you won’t be able to stop at a handful!

Why You’ll Love Candied Almonds

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Great as a snack, salad topper, party treat, or even as a holiday gift.

Budget-Friendly: Simple pantry staples and raw almonds come together for a gourmet-tasting result.

Quick and Easy: Minimal prep and just a bit of stirring that’s it!

Customizable: Try them with pecans or walnuts, add a pinch of cayenne, or use vanilla instead of cinnamon.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients in Candied Almonds

The magic here is in the simplicity a few humble ingredients transform into a crunchy-sweet treat you’ll crave all season long:

Raw Almonds: Whole, unsalted almonds are best they get perfectly toasted as they candy.

Sugar: Granulated sugar creates that irresistible crunchy coating.

Cinnamon: Warm and cozy, cinnamon gives these almonds their signature holiday flavor.

Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and make everything pop.

Water: Helps dissolve the sugar and coat the almonds evenly.

Vanilla Extract (optional): Adds a deeper layer of warmth and sweetness.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat your oven to 300°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Combine Ingredients: In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, mix together the sugar, cinnamon, salt, water, and vanilla (if using). Stir until the sugar dissolves completely and begins to bubble.

Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: No need for anything fancy just make sure your saucepan is large enough to toss the almonds without spilling.

Assemble the Dish: Add the almonds to the bubbling sugar mixture and stir continuously. The sugar will start to thicken and coat the almonds this takes about 8–10 minutes.

Cook to Perfection: Once the sugar starts to crystallize and stick to the almonds in a sandy coating, transfer them to the prepared baking sheet. Spread them out in an even layer.

Finishing Touches: Bake the almonds for 20–25 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until golden and toasty.

Serve and Enjoy: Let them cool completely (they’ll crisp up more as they cool), then break apart and snack away. Perfect for parties, jars, or just your own personal stash!

Nutrition Facts:

Servings: 10
Calories per serving: 220

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Candied Almonds

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
Pack in mason jars with ribbons for an easy edible gift.
Add to a holiday charcuterie board for a sweet and salty contrast.
Sprinkle over oatmeal or yogurt for a satisfying crunch.
Toss into leafy green salads with goat cheese and cranberries.
Set out in bowls at parties or game nights they’ll disappear fast!

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
Stir constantly to prevent the sugar from burning patience pays off.
Don’t skip the cooling time they need it to become crunchy.
Add a pinch of cayenne or nutmeg for a flavor twist.
Double the recipe they go fast!
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use roasted almonds instead of raw?
Raw almonds are best for even candying, but roasted will work just reduce baking time slightly.

2. Can I use brown sugar instead of white?
Yes! Brown sugar adds a richer, deeper flavor.

3. Why is my sugar mixture clumping?
That’s normal it goes from syrupy to sandy to glossy. Keep stirring through each stage.

4. Can I make these in the oven only?
You can skip the stovetop and bake everything, but the stovetop method gives a better coating.

5. Are these gluten-free?
Yes! All ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

6. Can I use other nuts?
Absolutely! Pecans, cashews, and walnuts all work beautifully.

7. Do I need to use parchment paper?
Yes it helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.

8. Can I freeze candied almonds?
Yes, though they’re best fresh. Store in a sealed bag for up to 2 months.

9. How do I know they’re done baking?
They should be golden, dry-looking, and aromatic. Let them cool fully to test crispiness.

10. Are these good for gifting?
Definitely! Pop them into a decorative jar or bag and you’ve got a sweet homemade gift.

Conclusion

Candied Almonds are that perfect little treat sweet, crunchy, and impossible to resist. They come together in just minutes but feel like something special, whether you’re munching on them yourself or wrapping them up to share. With that cozy cinnamon flavor and crisp texture, they’re bound to become a staple in your snack drawer and your holiday lineup. So grab a bag of almonds, fire up your skillet, and let your kitchen fill with the scent of sugar and spice it’s snack time, elevated!

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