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
Scale
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.
