Dessert

Candied Nuts 3 Ways: Oven-Baked and Stovetop Glazed Recipes Recipe

ByHarry Bern December 4, 2025December 4, 2025

Introduction

Candied nuts are a delightful treat that combines sweetness with a satisfying crunch. Whether baked or glazed on the stovetop, these nuts make perfect snacks, toppings, or gifts. Here are two simple methods to create delicious candied nuts at home.

The image shows three containers filled with roasted nuts, all placed on a white marbled surface with a beige textured cloth underneath. In the front, there is a white bowl with a gold rim filled with golden-brown almonds coated with a sugar crunch. Behind it to the left, there is a plain white bowl filled with mixed nuts, darker and chunkier in color and texture. Towards the back on the right side, there is a clear glass jar with a clamp lid filled with similar mixed nuts. In the far background, there is a baking tray with roasted nuts spread out on it, slightly out of focus. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 cups raw nuts (such as pecans, almonds, walnuts, or a mix)
1 large egg white
1 tablespoon water (for egg white mixture)
1 cup granulated sugar (for oven-baked)
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup granulated sugar (for stovetop glazed)
2 tablespoons water (for stovetop glazed)
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1/2 teaspoon salt (for stovetop glazed)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk the egg white and 1 tablespoon water until frothy. Add the nuts and toss until evenly coated.
Step 3: Stir in 1 cup sugar, cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon salt, making sure the nuts are thoroughly coated.
Step 4: Spread the coated nuts evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, stirring halfway, until nuts are dry and crisp.
Step 5: Let the nuts cool completely on the pan, then break apart any clusters before serving or storing.
Step 6: For stovetop candied nuts, combine 1 cup sugar and 2 tablespoons water in a large heavy skillet over medium heat. Stir constantly until sugar dissolves.
Step 7: Add the nuts and continue stirring constantly until the sugar caramelizes to a deep amber color, about 8 to 10 minutes.
Step 8: Remove from heat and stir in butter and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
Step 9: Transfer the nuts quickly to a parchment-lined surface and separate them using forks or a spatula. Allow to cool completely before serving or storing.

Tips & Variations

Use a mix of your favorite nuts for added texture and flavor.
For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground cloves to the cinnamon mixture.
Keep the heat medium-low when caramelizing on the stovetop to avoid burning.
Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Storage

Store candied nuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. If they soften, briefly warm them in the oven to restore crispness. These nuts are perfect for snacking, adding to salads, topping desserts, or packaging as gifts.

How to Serve

Three clear cone-shaped bags filled with crunchy nuts coated in a sugary spice mix lie on a white marbled surface. Each bag is tied at the top with a thin red, green, and white twisted string. Behind the cones, a white bowl with a gold rim holds more spiced nuts, looking shiny and golden brown. A smaller clear glass jar with a metal clasp on the right also holds nuts. A red, green, and gold Christmas ornament and a red and white plaid cloth add festive colors around the nuts, along with frosted sprigs with red berries placed in the front right. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of nuts?

Yes, any raw nuts like hazelnuts, cashews, or peanuts work well. Just adjust baking or cooking time slightly if nuts are larger or denser.

How do I prevent the nuts from sticking together?

Spread the nuts in a single layer and stir regularly while baking or caramelizing. After cooking, separate clusters gently with a fork while cooling to keep them evenly coated and separated.