Sweet, crunchy, and utterly addictive, candied almonds are a classic treat that everyone loves. Whether you’re looking for a quick homemade snack or a charming topping for desserts and salads, this vegan version of candied almonds is sure to impress.
Made with simple ingredients and free from any animal products, this recipe offers a guilt-free indulgence that’s perfect for any occasion. From holiday parties to movie nights, these almonds bring warmth and comfort with every bite.
With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a batch in under 20 minutes. The rich caramelized sugar coating pairs beautifully with the natural nuttiness of almonds, creating a delightful contrast of textures.
Plus, this recipe is easily customizable with spices like cinnamon or chili for a savory twist. Ready to make your own crunchy vegan candied almonds?
Let’s dive into the details!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan candied almonds recipe is:
- Simple and quick to prepare with minimal ingredients.
- Vegan-friendly, using plant-based sweeteners and no dairy products.
- Perfectly crunchy and sweet with a lightly spiced caramelized coating.
- Versatile – great as a snack, gift, or topping for salads and desserts.
- Customizable – you can add your favorite spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or even chili powder for extra flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 cups raw almonds (whole or sliced)
- 3/4 cup organic cane sugar or coconut sugar for a deeper flavor
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional for warmth)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp coconut oil or any neutral vegetable oil
Equipment
- Non-stick skillet or heavy-bottomed frying pan
- Wooden spoon or heat-resistant silicone spatula
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl
Instructions
- Prepare your workspace. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This will be where the candied almonds cool and harden.
- Toast the almonds. Place the almonds in a dry non-stick skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently for about 5 minutes until they smell fragrant and start to turn golden. Remove from heat and transfer to a bowl.
- Make the sugar syrup. In the same skillet, combine the sugar, water, and coconut oil. Stir gently over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture begins to bubble.
- Add spices and flavor. Stir in the vanilla extract, cinnamon (if using), and salt into the syrup.
- Coat the almonds. Return the toasted almonds to the skillet. Stir continuously to coat every almond with the syrup evenly. Keep cooking for 3-5 minutes until the syrup thickens and crystallizes, forming a glossy, crunchy coating on the nuts.
- Spread and cool. Quickly transfer the coated almonds onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading them out in a single layer to prevent sticking. Allow them to cool completely, about 15-20 minutes.
- Store and enjoy. Once cooled, break apart any clusters. Store your candied almonds in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Tips & Variations
“Make sure to stir constantly when coating the almonds to prevent the sugar from burning.”
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the sugar syrup.
- Try swapping almonds for other nuts like pecans, walnuts, or cashews for variety.
- For a salted caramel twist, increase the salt slightly and sprinkle flaky sea salt on top after cooling.
- Use maple syrup instead of sugar and water for a natural sweetener alternative, adjusting the amount to taste.
- If you want a smoother coating, sprinkle the almonds with a bit of ground cardamom or nutmeg for extra fragrance.
- To make this recipe nut-free, try using pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds instead.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per Serving (1/4 cup) |
---|---|
Calories | 220 kcal |
Fat | 16 g |
Saturated Fat | 4 g |
Carbohydrates | 18 g |
Sugar | 14 g |
Protein | 5 g |
Fiber | 3 g |
Sodium | 55 mg |
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy your vegan candied almonds as a delightful snack on their own, or get creative with their uses. They make an excellent crunchy topping for vegan ice cream, oatmeal bowls, or even salads for a touch of sweetness and texture.
Try sprinkling them over a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, or use them to garnish a warm bowl of roasted butternut squash soup. They also pair wonderfully with soft cheeses or vegan cheese alternatives for a sophisticated appetizer.
Looking for more delicious recipes to complement your candied almonds? Check out our Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe for a light and fresh main dish, or try the Harvest Hash Recipe for a cozy vegan comfort meal.
For tasty dips, the Halibut Dip Recipe offers a perfect blend of flavors to enjoy alongside your snacks.
Conclusion
Making your own vegan candied almonds at home is a rewarding and easy way to indulge in a sweet, crunchy treat without any guilt. This recipe requires just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor and satisfaction.
Whether you’re preparing a thoughtful gift, a party snack, or a healthy topping for your favorite dishes, these almonds are sure to impress your taste buds and your guests.
Not only are they delicious, but they also showcase how easy it is to enjoy plant-based sweets without compromising on taste or texture. Give this recipe a try and experiment with your favorite spices and nuts to make it uniquely yours.
Happy snacking!
📖 Recipe Card: Candied Almonds Recipe Vegan
Description: A simple and delicious vegan candied almonds recipe with a crunchy cinnamon-sugar coating. Perfect as a snack or topping for desserts and salads.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT25M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw almonds
- 1/4 cup organic cane sugar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
- In a pan, melt coconut oil over low heat.
- Add almonds and maple syrup, stir to coat.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Toss almonds in sugar mixture until evenly coated.
- Spread almonds on a baking sheet lined with parchment.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Let cool completely before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 200 kcal | Protein: 5 g | Fat: 18 g | Carbs: 12 g
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