Sweet Glazed Almonds

This candied almonds recipe transforms ordinary nuts into a deliciously sweet, crunchy treat that's ready in minutes using either an air fryer or conventional oven. The combination of warm spices and caramelized sugar creates an irresistible snack that's perfect for any occasion.

I first made these candied almonds when looking for a healthier alternative to my store bought sweet snacks. Now they've become my go to treat for unexpected guests or when I need something to munch on during movie nights.

Ingredients

• Whole almonds the star of the show providing protein healthy fats and a satisfying crunch
• Light brown sugar adds a rich caramel like flavor that perfectly coats the nuts
• Granulated sugar helps create the crisp candy coating
• Egg white essential for binding the sweet coating to the almonds
• Ground cinnamon adds warmth and nostalgic flavor
• Vanilla extract enhances the overall sweetness with aromatic notes
• Ground nutmeg provides a subtle spicy complexity
• Kosher salt balances the sweetness and enhances all flavors

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat Your Appliance

Set air fryer to 350°F or oven to 375°F. The slightly higher oven temperature compensates for the difference in cooking technology. Allow at least 3 minutes for proper preheating to ensure even cooking from the start.

Prepare Spice Mixture

Combine brown sugar white sugar cinnamon nutmeg and salt in a small bowl. Mix thoroughly to eliminate any clumps particularly in the brown sugar as this ensures even distribution of flavors throughout the coating.

Create Egg White Coating

Beat the egg white in a large shallow bowl until it becomes slightly frothy. Add vanilla extract and continue beating until completely incorporated. The egg white mixture should be loose enough to coat but not overly runny.

Coat The Almonds

Add whole almonds to the egg white mixture and gently fold until every almond is completely coated with a thin layer of the mixture. Take your time here ensuring each nut is evenly covered as this helps the sugar mixture adhere properly.

Add Sugar Mixture

Pour the spice sugar mixture over the egg white coated almonds. Toss gently but thoroughly until almonds are completely covered with the sweet spicy coating. The mixture should look evenly distributed with no bare spots on the nuts.

Arrange For Cooking

Transfer coated almonds to the air fryer tray or a greased baking sheet arranging them in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding as this prevents proper air circulation and can result in uneven cooking or soggy spots.

Cook With Attention

Halfway through cooking time carefully toss the almonds to ensure even caramelization. Stay vigilant during the final minutes as the sugar can quickly go from perfectly caramelized to burnt. The almonds are done when the coating looks dry and slightly crystallized.

Cool Completely

Remove from heat and allow to cool entirely before handling. The coating will continue to harden and crisp up during this time creating that signature candy shell texture.

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The cinnamon in this recipe reminds me of visiting my grandmother who always had cinnamon treats around her kitchen. That warm spicy aroma instantly transports me back to her cozy home where I first learned to appreciate the magic of transforming simple ingredients into something special.

Storage Solutions

These candied almonds keep beautifully when stored properly. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage place them in the refrigerator where they'll maintain their freshness for up to a month. If you live in a particularly humid climate refrigeration is recommended as moisture can make the candy coating sticky. Just be sure they're completely cooled before storing to prevent condensation inside the container.

Customization Options

This versatile recipe welcomes creative variations. Try swapping almonds for pecans walnuts or cashews for completely different flavor profiles. Experiment with spices by adding cardamom ginger or even a pinch of cayenne for a sweet heat combination. For chocolate lovers try drizzling cooled candied almonds with melted dark chocolate. During holiday seasons incorporate seasonal spices like pumpkin pie spice for autumn or a touch of peppermint extract for winter festivities.

Serving Suggestions

These candied almonds shine in multiple culinary applications. Roughly chop them to top ice cream yogurt or oatmeal for added crunch and sweetness. Use them to elevate a simple salad especially those with fruits like apples or pears. Package them in decorative jars for homemade gifts that everyone appreciates. For an elegant cheese board addition place a small bowl of these candied almonds alongside various cheeses especially brie or goat cheese where the sweet nutty flavor creates a beautiful contrast.

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Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use different nuts instead of almonds?

Yes! This technique works wonderfully with pecans, walnuts, cashews, or even mixed nuts. Just ensure all pieces are similar in size for even cooking. You may need to adjust cooking time slightly depending on the nut variety.

→ How long do candied almonds stay fresh?

When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these candied almonds will maintain their flavor and crunch for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a month or freeze for 2-3 months.

→ Can I add different spices to the coating?

Absolutely! Try adding cardamom, allspice, pumpkin pie spice, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for a sweet-heat combination. You can also experiment with different extracts like almond or maple instead of vanilla.

→ Why are my candied almonds sticking together?

This typically happens if they're not fully cooled before storing. Allow them to cool completely, then separate with a spoon before transferring to storage containers. If they're still sticky after cooling, they may need an extra minute of cooking time.

→ What's the best way to serve candied almonds?

Enjoy them as a snack on their own, add them to charcuterie boards, sprinkle over salads, ice cream, or yogurt, use as a topping for baked goods, or package in decorative jars for homemade gifts. They're versatile and add both sweetness and crunch to many dishes.

→ Can I make these without egg whites?

For a vegan alternative, you can substitute the egg white with 2 tablespoons of aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) or 1 tablespoon of maple syrup mixed with 1 teaspoon of water. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.