If you are on the hunt for a snack that’s irresistibly crunchy with a burst of warm, cozy flavors, you must try my Candied Almonds with Cinnamon, Cacao, and Vanilla Recipe. This treat combines the natural nutty charm of almonds with a fragrant blend of cinnamon and vanilla, enhanced by a subtle cacao richness that makes every bite pure bliss. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and spicy, crunchy and smooth, making it a fantastic snack for any time of day or a delightful homemade gift.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Candied Almonds with Cinnamon, Cacao, and Vanilla Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role: from binding the flavors with egg white and vanilla to giving the almonds their signature crunch and sweetness.
- 1 large egg white: Acts as the perfect glue to hold the spices and sugars on the almonds for that irresistible candy coating.
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth, awakening the flavors beautifully.
- 4 cups almonds: The crunchy, nutrient-packed base of this snack—make sure they are fresh!
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar (packed): Provides a rich molasses sweetness, enhancing the caramel notes.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Gives crisp, crystalized crunch to the coating.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Injects cozy, spicy warmth that pairs perfectly with nuts.
- 1 teaspoon unsweetened cacao powder: Lends a subtle chocolate bitterness that balances all the sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (or less to taste): Cuts through the sweetness and elevates all the flavors.
How to Make Candied Almonds with Cinnamon, Cacao, and Vanilla Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Begin by heating your oven to a gentle 250°F and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. This low temperature allows the almonds to candy slowly without burning, ensuring that perfect coating and crunch.
Step 2: Coat the Almonds
In a large bowl, whisk together the egg white and vanilla extract until lightly frothy. Adding the almonds next, toss them thoroughly in this mixture so each nut is evenly coated. This sticky layer is key to making the sugar and spices cling beautifully.
Step 3: Mix the Sugars and Spices
In a separate small bowl, combine the light brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, cacao powder, and sea salt. Gently sprinkle this aromatic blend over the coated almonds and toss again until every almond boasts a sugary spice hug.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Spread the almonds in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Slide them into the oven for 45 minutes, stirring gently every 10-15 minutes to prevent sticking and ensure even baking. When time is up, crank your oven up to 360°F and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. Keep a sharp eye here—overbaking can turn delightful to bitter quickly.
Step 5: Cool and Store
Once baked, let the almonds cool down completely on the baking sheet. This cooling period helps the sugary coating harden into that satisfying crunchy shell. Once cool, store them in an airtight container to keep fresh for up to five days.
How to Serve Candied Almonds with Cinnamon, Cacao, and Vanilla Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle these candied almonds over salads, oatmeal, or even dessert bowls for a sweet and crunchy topping. Their vibrant cinnamon and cacao flavors add a unique twist that livens up any dish.
Side Dishes
Pair these almonds alongside cheese boards or charcuterie spreads—the sweet and spicy coating complements savory cheeses and cured meats exceptionally well, elevating any appetizer experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Candied Almonds with Cinnamon, Cacao, and Vanilla Recipe in small glass jars tied with ribbon for thoughtful gifts, or package them in colorful cellophane bags for party favors. They also make a fantastic festive snack to have on hand during holiday gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers stored in an airtight container at room temperature. The coating stays crisp, and they remain remarkably fresh for up to five days—perfect for nibbling throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to keep them longer, freeze your candied almonds in a sturdy, sealed container. They freeze well for up to three months, and when thawed, retain all their original crunch and flavor.
Reheating
To refresh the crunch, simply warm the almonds briefly in a low oven (around 300°F) for 5 to 10 minutes. This quick heat-up can make them taste freshly baked again, reviving that magical crisp exterior.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of almonds?
Absolutely! Pecans, cashews, or walnuts can be great substitutes and will absorb the Candied Almonds with Cinnamon, Cacao, and Vanilla Recipe flavors wonderfully. Just keep an eye on baking times as different nuts may toast at slightly different rates.
Is the egg white safe to eat cooked like this?
Yes, when baked at the proper temperature and time outlined in the recipe, the egg white fully cooks and safely binds the coating to the almonds.
Can I make these sugar-free or low-sugar?
You could experiment with sugar substitutes, but keep in mind that sugar is key to the classic candied texture and crunch. Using less sugar or alternative sweeteners might change both texture and flavor significantly.
What if I don’t have cacao powder? Can I skip it?
While cacao adds a delightful subtle bitterness balancing the sweetness, you can omit it if needed. Your almonds will still be delicious, just leaning a little sweeter without that cocoa note.
How long will these almonds stay fresh?
Stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, these candied almonds will stay fresh and crunchy for up to five days. For longer storage, freezing is your best bet.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to make snack time special, the Candied Almonds with Cinnamon, Cacao, and Vanilla Recipe is your perfect go-to. It’s simple, delicious, and packed with delicious aromas and flavors that bring everyone running back for more. Give it a try and watch how these crunchy little treats become an instant classic in your kitchen!
Print
Candied Almonds with Cinnamon, Cacao, and Vanilla Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 70 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Deliciously sweet and crunchy candied almonds coated with a flavorful blend of cinnamon, cocoa, and vanilla. Perfect as a snack or a festive treat that’s easy to make at home with simple ingredients and oven-baking.
Ingredients
Almond Mixture
- 1 large egg white
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 4 cups almonds
Coating
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon unsweetened cacao powder
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (or less to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare baking sheet. Heat the oven to 250°F (120°C) and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- Coat almonds with egg white and vanilla. In a large bowl, whisk together the egg white and vanilla extract until frothy. Add the almonds and toss well to evenly coat each almond with the mixture.
- Mix sugars and spices. In a separate small bowl, combine the light brown sugar, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, unsweetened cacao powder, and sea salt. Sprinkle this sugar-spice mixture over the coated almonds and toss thoroughly to ensure an even coating.
- Bake at low temperature and stir regularly. Spread the coated almonds in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, stirring carefully every 10-15 minutes to prevent burning and promote even cooking.
- Increase temperature to finish baking. After the initial baking time, increase the oven heat to 360°F (180°C) and bake the almonds for an additional 10-15 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning; the almonds should be crisp and caramelized when done.
- Cool and store. Remove the almonds from the oven and allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, transfer to an airtight container. The candied almonds can be stored for up to 5 days.
Notes
- Stirring the almonds periodically during baking is essential to prevent burning and ensure even caramelization.
- Adjust salt quantity to taste for a balanced flavor.
- Use parchment paper or a silicone mat on the baking sheet for easier cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain crunchiness.
- These make excellent holiday gifts or snacks for gatherings.
