How to Make Sugared Nuts

Sugared nuts are sweet and spicy treats that make a great addition to any party table. Packaged in decorative containers, they can also be handed out as delicious homemade gifts. This recipe can be easily adapted to reflect regional and personal preferences, using nuts commonly found in your area or popular combinations of spices. The end product stores well, so you can always have a ready supply on hand.

Things You'll Need

• 2 lbs. raw nuts Baking sheets ¾ cup sugar ¾ cup brown sugar, firmly packed 1 tbsp. ground cinnamon 2 tbsp. butter or margarine 2 tbsp. water Parchment paper Spices of your choice

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Spread the nuts evenly across an ungreased baking sheet, and place the sheet in the oven for eight to 10 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Remove the nuts from the oven, and allow them to cool slightly.

2. Combine the sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, butter and water in a saucepan while the toasted nuts are cooling. Cook the sugar mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar completely dissolves. Add the nuts, and mix until all the nuts are evenly coated with the sugar syrup.

3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, and distribute the nuts evenly across the paper. Place the nuts into the oven, and bake for 15 minutes. Once every five minutes, remove the nuts from the oven and give them a quick stir to ensure even baking and to visually confirm that they are in no danger of scorching.

4. Remove the baking sheet from the oven when the glaze on the nuts is crisp and golden brown. Allow the sugared nuts to cool completely before sampling.

5. Add other spices to suit your tastes. Some common additions include allspice, ground cloves, ginger, nutmeg and vanilla. Stir in 1/4 to 1/2 tsp. of your favorites to achieve a custom blend. For a more elegant version, add 1 tbsp. of orange liqueur and ½ tsp. of grated orange peel.

Tips & Warnings

• Store sugared nuts in an airtight container for up to three months or in the freezer for up to 12 months. If you're not worried about calories, you can remove the water from the recipe and double the amount of butter. For the calorie-conscious, leave the butter out. You'll still get a tasty treat, but it will be lower in fat. Place the nuts in a slow cooker if your oven tends to heat unevenly. Preheat the slow cooker by setting it on high and leaving it uncovered for at least 15 minutes. Add the coated nuts, cover and cook for 20 minutes. Reduce the setting to low. Remove the lid, and cook uncovered for approximately two hours, stirring occasionally.

References

• Sugared Nuts