Candied almonds are one of those treats that can easily brighten up any occasion, from festive gatherings to cozy family movie nights. This quick and delightful recipe for cinnamon sugar almonds is not only simple to make but also incredibly satisfying to eat. As a busy mom, I love whipping these up for a last-minute snack or serving them at parties for an added crunch. The warm aroma of cinnamon and sugar fills the kitchen, bringing everyone together over a shared love of sweet treats.
Why Make This Recipe
There are countless reasons to dive into making candied almonds. First and foremost, they are a quick and easy snack option that appeals to both kids and adults alike. You can prepare them in under an hour, making them perfect for unexpected guests or a last-minute sweet tooth craving. They’re also versatile; whether you’re adding them to salads, creating beautiful dessert platters, or simply munching on them straight from the jar, these almonds fit the bill.
“I made these candied almonds for a holiday gathering, and they were a huge hit! Everyone loved the crunchy coating and the warm cinnamon flavor,” shares a satisfied home baker.
How to Make Candied Almonds (Cinnamon Sugar Almonds)
Making candied almonds is a breeze! It all begins with roasting the almonds to enhance their natural flavor. You’ll whip up a frothy mixture of egg white and vanilla to coat the nuts, allowing the sugar, cinnamon, and salt to stick. Once mixed, spread the almonds out on a baking sheet and let the oven do the magic. The result is a crispy, sweet snack that’s perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
What you’ll need:
16 ounces raw almonds (about 3 cups), 1 egg white, 1 Tablespoon vanilla extract, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon sea salt, 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Feel free to substitute the almonds for another nut like walnuts or pecans if you’re in the mood for a different flavor. You can also adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar based on your personal preference.
Directions
- Preheat oven to 250 degrees F. Grease a large baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, combine sugar, sea salt, and cinnamon.
- In a large mixing bowl, whip egg white and vanilla until frothy.
- Add almonds to the mixture and stir until evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the dry ingredients over the almonds and stir until evenly distributed.
- Spread almonds on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes.
- After baking, let cool on the baking sheet or enjoy warm.
- Store in an airtight container.
How to Serve Candied Almonds (Cinnamon Sugar Almonds)
Candied almonds are incredibly versatile. Serve them as a stand-alone snack in a decorative bowl, or incorporate them into your favorite desserts. They make a perfect topping for ice cream or yogurt, adding texture and flavor. Consider tossing them into salads for a delightful crunch. Kids love finding these sweet treats in their lunchboxes, making them excellent for school snacks.
How to Store
To keep your candied almonds fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to two weeks if stored properly, but you’ll likely find them gone much sooner! If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for about a month, or try freezing them for up to three months. Just be sure to let them cool completely before packing them away.
Tips to Make
One tip to ensure the almonds come out perfectly crispy is to make sure they are well-coated with the egg white mixture. This helps the sugar mixture stick beautifully. Stirring them every 15 minutes while baking ensures even cooking and prevents burning. If you prefer a stronger cinnamon flavor, feel free to add an extra half teaspoon to the sugar mix. Don’t be afraid to tweak the flavors to make it your own!
Variations
Get creative with flavors! You can replace the cinnamon and sugar with cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist. Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. You can also stir in some vanilla bean or almond extract for a different aromatic experience. Seasonal variations can include nutmeg or pumpkin spice during the fall, which gives a festive flair to this classic recipe.
FAQs
Can I use roasted almonds?
Yes, while raw almonds are preferred for this recipe, you can use roasted almonds. Just be mindful that they may cook faster, so adjust the baking time accordingly.
Are candied almonds gluten-free?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great treat for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I double the recipe?
Of course! Just ensure you have a large enough baking sheet to spread the almonds out in a single layer for even cooking.
What should I do if the sugar doesn’t stick?
Make sure your egg white is whipped quite frothy, and ensure the almonds are well coated before adding the sugar mixture. If you experience sticking issues, try slightly moistening the almonds again with a bit more egg white.
For More Recipe Inspiration
If you’re looking for more delicious recipes, check out our protein muffins for a quick breakfast option, or explore our bento cake recipe for a fun, creative way to celebrate special occasions.
Be sure to visit our Pinterest page for even more dessert inspiration:
Candied Almonds
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C) and grease a large baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, combine sugar, sea salt, and cinnamon.
- In a large mixing bowl, whip the egg white and vanilla extract until frothy.
- Add the almonds to the egg white mixture and stir until evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the dry ingredients over the almonds and stir until evenly distributed.
- Spread the almonds on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes.
- After baking, let cool on the baking sheet or enjoy warm.