Candy Nuts Recipe
🕒 Total Time: 25 minutes
🥄 Servings: 12
🥑 Calories: 148 per serving
🍽️ Recipe Category: Lunch/Snacks
🔑 Keywords: Fruit, Nuts, Christmas, Thanksgiving, < 30 Mins, Oven, Stove Top
Description:
This Candy Nuts recipe is simply addictive! Perfect for entertaining guests during the holidays or any gathering, these sweet treats are so irresistible that you might find yourself needing to hide them from yourself! Originally from the Chicago Sun-Times, this recipe promises a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will leave everyone craving for more.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
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Prepare Baking Sheet:
- Line a baking sheet with foil, then butter the foil generously to prevent sticking. Set aside for later use.
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Combine Ingredients in Skillet:
- In a heavy 10-inch skillet, add the pecan halves, sugar, butter, and vanilla extract.
- Place the skillet over medium-high heat, and let the mixture cook, shaking the skillet occasionally to distribute the ingredients evenly. It’s crucial not to stir at this stage.
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Melt Sugar:
- As the mixture heats up, you’ll notice the sugar beginning to melt and caramelize. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning, but refrain from stirring.
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Reduce Heat and Continue Cooking:
- Once the sugar has melted and turns golden brown, reduce the heat to low. At this point, you can start stirring the mixture occasionally to ensure even caramelization.
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Transfer to Baking Sheet:
- Remove the skillet from the heat as soon as the sugar reaches the desired golden color.
- Quickly pour the nut mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it out into an even layer.
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Cool and Break Into Clusters:
- Allow the nut mixture to cool completely on the baking sheet. As it cools, it will harden into delicious clusters.
- Once cooled, break the candy nuts into clusters of your desired size.
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Storage:
- Store the candy nuts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 weeks. However, with their irresistible taste, they may not last that long!
Enjoy these sweet and crunchy candy nuts as a snack, dessert, or a delightful edible gift for friends and family. Just be warned, they’re so delicious that you might want to make a double batch to satisfy everyone’s cravings!
