Indulge your senses with this irresistible recipe for Caramel Mixed Nuts – a delightful blend of crunchy nuts coated in a luscious, homemade caramel. This easy-to-follow recipe delivers perfectly caramelized nuts every time, transforming simple ingredients into a sophisticated and addictive snack. Forget store-bought versions loaded with preservatives; this recipe uses wholesome ingredients and allows you to control the sweetness and flavor profile to your liking. Imagine the satisfying crunch and the rich, buttery caramel melting in your mouth – a perfect treat for movie nights, holiday gatherings, or simply a well-deserved reward after a long day.
This recipe is incredibly versatile; feel free to experiment with your favorite nut combinations for a personalized touch. Ready to create a batch of these addictive, homemade Caramel Mixed Nuts? Let's dive into the simple step-by-step process below!
Tools Needed
- Frying pan
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Ingredients
- Mixed nuts (cashews, almonds, walnuts)
- Granulated sugar
- Water
- Unsalted butter
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Make the Caramel
- Put granulated sugar in a frying pan and pour in water, aiming for the level of the sugar. Mix evenly.
- Heat the pan over medium heat. Do not stir the sugar too much; let it heat until the color changes.
- Once the sugar starts to boil and change color (around 2 minutes), gently shake the pan to distribute the color evenly. Be cautious of smoke and use an exhaust fan.
- When the color is even, reduce heat to low, and stir occasionally until a nice caramel color is achieved. Be careful not to burn it.
- Add butter; it will splatter, so be careful. Stir until melted.
Step 2. Coat the Nuts
- Add mixed nuts. Mix quickly off the heat to coat evenly.
- Return to medium heat for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, to evaporate excess water. The mixture should form a string.
Step 3. Cool and Harden
- Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it out to cool and harden. Refrigerate to speed up the process.
Step 4. Break and Serve
- Once completely hardened, break into bite-sized pieces.
Read more: Black Bean Muffins: Easy Recipe with Pancake Mix
Tips
- Use unprocessed, unfried nuts.
- You can use granulated sugar or cane sugar (cane sugar will result in a darker caramel color).
- If using cane sugar, monitor carefully as it's harder to determine doneness.
- Don't stir the sugar too much before it melts, or it will crystallize.
- Turn off the heat just before reaching desired caramel color to prevent burning.
Nutrition
- Calories: varies
- Fat: variesg
- Carbs: variesg
- Protein: variesg
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of nuts?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite nut combinations. Almonds, pecans, cashews, walnuts, and peanuts all work wonderfully.
2. How long will the caramel mixed nuts last?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to two weeks.
There you have it – a batch of homemade caramel mixed nuts that are sure to impress! Enjoy this delicious and addictive treat as a snack, party favor, or a thoughtful gift. Happy snacking!