Sugar-Glazed Walnuts Delight
Sugar-Glazed Walnuts Delight is that magical treat you didn't know your taste buds were missing. Perfectly sweet and slightly spiced, these walnuts are a simple yet impressive snack or topping that come together in no time. Whether you're cozying up for a movie night or topping off a salad, this recipe is a must-try.
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Ingredients for Sugar-Glazed Walnuts Delight
Walnut halves are the star of the show, providing a rich, nutty base that pairs beautifully with the sweetness. Granulated sugar acts as the primary sweetener and forms the glaze. The water helps dissolve the sugar and create a syrup. A hint of vanilla extract adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile. The cinnamon offers a subtle spice that's perfect for fall or winter. A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness.
Sugar-Glazed Walnuts Delight Tips & Tricks
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent the sugar from sticking and burning.
- Stir frequently to keep the sugar from caramelizing too quickly.
- Let them cool completely for the perfect crunch and to avoid sticky hands.
Serving Ideas for Sugar-Glazed Walnuts Delight
These glazed walnuts are fantastic sprinkled over a fresh spinach salad with feta cheese and dried cranberries. Try them as a topping for oatmeal or yogurt for a breakfast treat. They're also a wonderful addition to a cheese board, adding a sweet contrast to savory cheeses.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other nuts?
- Absolutely! Pecans or almonds would work wonderfully with this recipe.
- How do I store these walnuts?
- Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
- Can I make these ahead of time?
- Yes, these can be prepared a few days in advance, stored as mentioned above.
Sugar-Glazed Walnuts Delight Recipe Walkthrough
First, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. You want it hot enough to dissolve sugar but not too hot to burn it. Next, combine your sugar and water directly in the skillet. Stir them together until the sugar completely dissolves — you'll know it's ready when the mixture looks clear.
Now, add the walnuts to the skillet. Stir them around to ensure each piece is nicely coated. Keep an eye on the mixture and continue stirring frequently. This is where the magic happens! In about 10 minutes, your mixture will thicken, and you'll see the walnuts getting that shiny, sugary coating.
Once your walnuts are beautifully glazed, remove the skillet from the heat and stir in your vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. The cinnamon will add a lovely aroma, and the salt will make the sweetness pop.
Spread the walnuts out onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This step is crucial to prevent sticking and to help them cool evenly. Let them cool completely before you break them apart — trust me, they're worth the wait!
Why This Sugar-Glazed Walnuts Delight Works
- Quick and easy — ready in under 20 minutes.
- Just the right balance of sweet and spice.
- Minimal ingredients you likely already have at home.
- Perfect for gifting or holiday treats.
Ingredients
- 1 cup walnut halves
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Step-by-step Instructions
- 1. Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- 2. In the skillet, combine sugar and water, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- 3. Add walnuts to the skillet and stir until well-coated.
- 4. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and the walnuts are evenly coated, about 10 minutes.
- 5. Stir in vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
- 6. Spread the walnuts onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- 7. Allow to cool completely before breaking apart and serving.