Elevate Your Snack Game with Cinnamon Sugar Glazed Nuts
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a sweet and crunchy treat – Cinnamon Sugar Glazed Nuts! Whether you’re hosting a gathering, need a midday pick-me-up, or simply craving something indulgent, these glazed nuts are the perfect snack solution. Packed with warm cinnamon, sweet sugar, and a hint of vanilla, they’re sure to become a favorite in your snack rotation. Join us as we dive into the delightful world of homemade glazed nuts and learn how to create this irresistible treat from scratch.
Ingredients
- 1 pound almonds (and/or pecans)
- 1/3 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 egg whites
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Prepare the Nuts: In a large mixing bowl, combine the almonds (or pecans) with the melted butter, tossing until the nuts are evenly coated.
- Make the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Whip the Egg Whites: In another clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites until frothy. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Coat the Nuts: Add the egg white mixture to the bowl of coated nuts, stirring until the nuts are thoroughly coated with the egg whites.
- Add the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture: Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the nuts, tossing gently to ensure even coating.
- Bake: Spread the coated nuts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the nuts are golden brown and fragrant.
- Cool: Allow the glazed nuts to cool completely on the baking sheet. As they cool, the sugar coating will harden, creating a deliciously crunchy texture.
- Serve or Store: Once cooled, transfer the cinnamon sugar glazed nuts to an airtight container or enjoy them immediately. They can be stored at room temperature for up to two weeks.
Cook Notes and Variations
- Mix Up the Nuts: Feel free to use a combination of almonds and pecans for a variety of flavors and textures.
- Experiment with Spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg, allspice, or cardamom to the cinnamon sugar mixture for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
- Add a Kick: For a spicy-sweet variation, sprinkle a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder over the nuts before baking.
- Try Different Extracts: Substitute almond or maple extract for the vanilla extract to add depth of flavor to the glazed nuts.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I use other nuts besides almonds and pecans? A: Absolutely! This recipe works well with a variety of nuts, such as walnuts, cashews, or peanuts. Feel free to experiment with your favorite nuts or a combination of different types.
Q: Can I use margarine instead of butter? A: While butter provides the best flavor, you can use margarine as a substitute if preferred. Just be aware that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
Q: Are these nuts suitable for individuals with nut allergies? A: Unfortunately, no. This recipe contains nuts and is not suitable for individuals with nut allergies. However, you can explore alternative recipes that use seeds or other allergy-friendly ingredients.
Q: Can I make a keto-friendly version of these glazed nuts? A: Yes! To make a keto-friendly version, you can substitute the sugar with a sugar-free sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener. You can also use a keto-friendly butter substitute and adjust the quantity according to your dietary preferences.
Q: How can I make a low-carb version of this recipe? A: For a low-carb version, you can reduce the amount of sugar used in the recipe or use a sugar-free sweetener. You can also decrease the quantity of nuts and increase the ratio of cinnamon sugar coating for a lower-carb snack.
Cinnamon Sugar Glazed Nuts are a delightful indulgence that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re craving a sweet treat to enjoy on the go or looking for a crowd-pleasing snack to share with friends and family, these glazed nuts are sure to hit the spot. With their irresistible combination of warm cinnamon, sweet sugar, and crunchy nuts, they’re a snack sensation that’s easy to make and impossible to resist. So grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the irresistible magic of homemade glazed nuts. Happy snacking!
