There’s a certain charm that fills the kitchen when the scent of cinnamon and vanilla wafts through the air. As the warm, sweet aroma envelops me, I can’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia, recalling cozy gatherings where friends and family indulged in homemade treats. That’s exactly how I stumbled upon my favorite snack: Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts.
Imagine gathering around the table, laughter echoing as bowls of these irresistible, crunchy gems are passed around. With just a few simple ingredients and a mere 30 minutes, you can transform basic mixed nuts into a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re prepping for a movie night, planning a potluck, or simply looking for a sweet pick-me-up, this recipe is a winner. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make—anyone can whip them up, regardless of kitchen experience!
So roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s sure to impress and satisfy your craving for something special.
Why You'll Love This Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts
- These Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts are an absolute delight to make, with a simple 30-minute preparation that anyone can handle.
- The combination of cinnamon and vanilla creates a mouthwatering aroma that fills your kitchen, making them irresistibly appealing.
- They are incredibly versatile and can be served at any occasion, from casual movie nights to festive gatherings, ensuring they are crowd-pleasers every time.
- Visually, they shine with their golden-brown color and sugary glaze, making them an eye-catching addition to any snack table.
Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts Ingredients
• For the Nuts
- Mixed nuts – 2 cups of your choice; almonds, pecans, and walnuts work beautifully for crunch and flavor.
• For the Sweet Coating
- Granulated sugar – 1/2 cup; this transforms the nuts into a sweet, candied delight.
- Ground cinnamon – 2 tsp; it infuses the nuts with that warm, cozy spice flavor you love.
• For the Binding
- Unsalted butter – 2 tbsp, melted; it helps the sugar adhere to the nuts for that perfect glaze.
- Pure vanilla extract – 1 tsp; adds a lovely aromatic depth to the overall flavor of the Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts.
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts
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Preheat oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts bake evenly and become beautifully golden brown.
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Mix sugar and cinnamon: In a medium bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Stir until well blended, creating a fragrant mix that will be the star of your sweet coating.
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Melt butter and vanilla: Take a separate microwave-safe bowl and melt the butter. Stir in the pure vanilla extract, which will add a delightful aroma to your nut mixture.
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Coat the nuts: Add your mixed nuts to the butter mixture. Toss gently until every nut is evenly coated with the buttery goodness—this step is where the magic begins!
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Add the cinnamon-sugar: Sprinkle your cinnamon-sugar mixture over the coated nuts. Toss again until the nuts are fully coated in the sweet, aromatic blend.
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Bake to perfection: Spread the coated nuts out on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they turn golden brown and fragrant.
Optional: Serve warm for a delightful snack experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to savor their delightful flavor with minimal effort on busy days. You can prepare the nut mixture and coat it with the butter and vanilla up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy their crunchy goodness, spread the coated nuts onto a baking sheet and sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture right before baking. This ensures they remain just as delicious and flavorful. Ultimately, you’ll have a fast and easy treat ready to impress your guests or satisfy your snack cravings with just a little finishing touch!
Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize these delightful nuts to suit your taste!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cinnamon-sugar mix for a delightful heat that contrasts with the sweetness. It’s a surprising twist that will keep your taste buds dancing!
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Nut-Free Option: Swap the mixed nuts for seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds, still achieving that crunchy texture with a slightly different flavor profile. Perfect for those with nut allergies!
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Sweetener Swap: Use maple syrup or honey instead of granulated sugar for a natural sweetness that adds depth and complexity. This will bring a warm, earthy note to your candied nuts.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the nuts for a rich, indulgent treat. This addition elevates the snack to an elegant dessert, perfect for gatherings!
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Herb Infusion: Experiment by adding a pinch of dried rosemary or thyme to the nut mixture before baking for an unexpected savory touch that pairs beautifully with the sweetness.
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Fruit Flavor: Incorporate 1 tsp of orange or lemon zest into the butter mixture for a refreshing citrus note that brightens up the overall flavor profile. A zesty surprise awaits!
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Caramel Glaze: Mix 1/4 cup of caramel sauce with the melted butter for an ultra-decadent coating that transforms every nut into a rich, buttery bite. Indulgence at its finest!
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Puffed Rice Coating: For extra crunch, try tossing the nuts in puffed rice or crispy cereal after they’ve been coated and baked. This adds a delightful crunch, making your snack even more satisfying!
What to Serve with Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts?
Imagine the joy of pairing these sweet, crunchy treats with delightful accompaniments that elevate your snacking experience.
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Fresh Fruit Platter: A vibrant assortment of berries and citrus balances the sweetness, adding a refreshing contrast to the nuts’ rich flavor.
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Creamy Cheese: Soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese provide a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the crunchy, sugary nuts.
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Spicy Dark Chocolate: Dark chocolate with a hint of spice creates a tantalizing contrast, adding depth to your snacking adventure.
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Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of hot chocolate, rich with cocoa, enhances the cozy vibe while complementing the cinnamon’s warmth in the nuts.
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Savory Charcuterie Board: Serve these nuts alongside cured meats and artisanal bread for a delightful contrast of flavors and textures that guests will love.
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Caramel Popcorn: The sweetness of caramel popcorn harmonizes with the cinnamon sugar, creating a festival of flavors in every bite.
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Iced Tea: A chilled glass of sweetened iced tea cools down the palate, making it a refreshing companion to the nutty crunch.
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Ice Cream Sundae: Top vanilla ice cream with candied nuts for an indulgent dessert that combines temperature and texture for a delightful treat.
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts
Room Temperature: Store cooled Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week for optimal freshness and crunchiness.
Fridge: For an extra crispy texture, you can refrigerate the nuts in an airtight container. They’ll last up to 2 weeks, but you might lose some crunchiness.
Freezer: Freeze the nuts in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving, or enjoy them straight from the freezer for a cold treat!
Reheating: To restore some crunch, spread the nuts on a baking sheet and reheat in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-10 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best flavor in your Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts, choose a variety of nuts that complement each other, like almonds, pecans, and walnuts.
- Make sure to melt the butter gently to avoid burning it, which can affect the taste of your nuts.
- When coating the nuts, be thorough and ensure each piece gets an even layer of butter before adding the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Keep an eye on the nuts while baking, as they can go from perfectly golden to burnt in just a minute or two.
Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best mixed nuts for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, opt for fresh nuts that are free from dark spots or blemishes. I love using a combination of almonds, pecans, and walnuts for a varied flavor and texture. Look for nuts that have a crunch and aren’t stale, which you can often identify by their smell—fresh nuts should have a nutty aroma, while stale ones may smell off or lack fragrance.
How should I store my Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts?
The best way to store your Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts is in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their delightful crunch. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Just remember, refrigeration might make them slightly less crunchy!
Can I freeze Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts?
Definitely! Freezing these delicious nuts is a great option. Just place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator or, if you’re feeling adventurous, enjoy them straight from the freezer for a unique treat!
What should I do if my nuts burn while baking?
It happens to the best of us! If your nuts burn, it’s crucial to keep a close eye on them while baking. Stir the nuts halfway through the baking time to ensure even cooking. If they do burn, unfortunately, they may be beyond saving, but you can prevent this by checking them at the 15-minute mark and adjusting the time if necessary. A little extra vigilance goes a long way!
Are these nuts safe for pets?
Be cautious with sharing them with your pets! While nuts can be safe for dogs in small amounts, these Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts contain sugar and cinnamon, which are not recommended for pets. It’s best to enjoy them yourself and stick to pet-friendly snacks for your furry friends!
Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.
- Melt the butter in a separate bowl and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Add the mixed nuts to the butter mixture and toss to coat.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the nuts and toss again.
- Spread the nuts on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes.
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