If you’re searching for an irresistible snack that delivers on both sweet and salty, look no further than Candied Cashews. This recipe transforms humble raw cashews into glossy, golden nuggets with a crackly sugar shell and just a hint of cinnamon spice. They’re quick enough for a weekday treat but elegant enough for your fanciest gatherings. Whether you want to gift them, serve them with cocktails, or simply keep a stash hidden in your pantry for “just because,” Candied Cashews are an absolute must-try.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity, relying on just a handful of key ingredients to create that perfect balance of flavor and crunch. Each component has a role, from building the candy coating to adding subtle notes of spice and aroma.
- Raw Cashews: Choose unsalted, raw cashews for the best flavor and texture—they become deeply golden and buttery once candied.
- Granulated Sugar: Classic white sugar creates a crisp, shiny shell and delivers that familiar sweetness.
- Water: Helps dissolve the sugar and evenly coats every nut for flawless candying.
- Ground Cinnamon (optional): Adds a lovely warm undertone; feel free to omit if you prefer a pure cashew taste or experiment with spices like cayenne for a kick.
- Salt: Just a pinch makes all the flavors pop and prevents the cashews from being too sweet.
- Vanilla Extract (optional): Stirred in at the end, it infuses a subtle, bakery-style aroma that takes the candied cashews over the top.
How to Make Candied Cashews
Step 1: Prep Your Pan
Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper and setting it within easy reach—once the candied cashews are ready, you’ll need to work quickly. The parchment prevents any sticky mess and ensures the nuts cool without sticking together.
Step 2: Mix the Coating
In a medium nonstick skillet or saucepan set over medium heat, combine the sugar, water, cinnamon (if using), and salt. Stir until the sugar is mostly dissolved. This mixture will become a thick, sticky syrup—don’t worry, it’s supposed to look a little cloudy at first.
Step 3: Candy the Cashews
Add the cashews to your melted sugar mixture and continue cooking, stirring frequently so each nut gets an even coat. After about 8 to 10 minutes, the mixture will thicken, then turn sandy and dry as the sugar crystallizes. This is the magic stage—keep stirring until all the cashews are beautifully coated.
Step 4: Add Flavor & Cool
If you’re using vanilla extract, stir it in quickly at the end; the heat will help distribute that delicious aroma. Immediately transfer the candied cashews to your prepared baking sheet. Use a fork to separate any large clusters and let everything cool completely so the coating firms up and becomes satisfyingly crunchy.
How to Serve Candied Cashews
Garnishes
A sprinkle of flaky sea salt or an extra dusting of cinnamon right after the cashews come off the heat adds a gourmet touch. For a little sparkle, try tossing the warm nuts with a pinch of edible gold dust or even some finely chopped candied citrus peel for color.
Side Dishes
Candied Cashews are excellent on their own, but they also shine alongside cheese boards, served with fresh fruit like apple or pear slices, or scattered atop leafy green salads for a sweet crunch. For a brunch table, pair them with yogurt and berries.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn simple Candied Cashews into memorable party favors by packaging them in glass jars or clear cellophane bags tied with ribbon. For gatherings, pile them in a pretty bowl with cocktail picks, or use as a topping for ice cream sundaes or brownies. They even make decadent gifts for the holidays or housewarming parties!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your candied cashews are completely cool, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and crisp for up to two weeks—so you can make a big batch in advance for snacking or gifting.
Freezing
To extend their shelf life even further, you can freeze candied cashews. Just let them cool fully, then pack into freezer-safe bags. They’ll keep for up to three months and are ready to enjoy straight from the freezer or after a short thaw.
Reheating
If the coating softens or the cashews lose their crunch, simply spread them out on a parchment-lined baking sheet and warm in a 300 degree F oven for 5 to 7 minutes. Cool again before storing for restored crunchiness.
FAQs
Can I use roasted cashews instead of raw?
While you can use roasted cashews, raw nuts yield the best texture and absorb the candy coating more effectively. If using roasted cashews, they may become a bit too dark, so keep a close eye on them.
How do I prevent the sugar from burning?
Keep the heat at medium or just below and stir frequently—the sugar syrup can go from perfect to burnt very quickly. Using a heavy-bottomed or nonstick pan helps distribute the heat evenly.
Are candied cashews gluten-free and vegan?
Yes! This recipe for candied cashews is both gluten-free and vegan, as long as you double-check that your sugar and other add-ins meet your dietary needs.
What other flavors can I use?
Try swapping cinnamon for cardamom, pumpkin spice, or a pinch of cayenne for spicy candied cashews. You can also toss in a bit of orange zest or maple extract for a twist.
Can I double or triple the recipe?
Absolutely—just scale up all ingredients equally and make sure your pan is large enough to allow space for stirring. Work in batches if needed to ensure every cashew gets an even coat.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving the ideal combo of sweetness, crunch, and just a hint of salt, Candied Cashews should be at the top of your snack list. With minimal effort and spectacular results, they’re a delight for both special occasions and everyday treats. Give them a try—you may just find yourself making them on repeat.
Print
Candied Cashews Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 cup 1x
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten-Free
Description
Learn how to make delicious candied cashews at home with this easy recipe. These sweet and crunchy nuts are perfect for snacking or gifting during the holiday season.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 cup raw cashews
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- Cook the Candied Cashews: Combine sugar, water, cinnamon, and salt in a skillet. Add cashews and cook until sugar crystallizes. Stir in vanilla extract, if desired. Spread onto the baking sheet to cool.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
- You can double the recipe or swap cinnamon for cayenne for a spicy variation.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
