Description
Looking for a quick snack that hits all the right notes—crunchy, buttery, sweet, with a hint of spice? These Quick Toffee Candied Walnuts are your new go-to. Ready in just 15 minutes, they’re perfect for gifting, topping salads or ice cream, or simply enjoying by the handful. With pantry-staple ingredients, this easy recipe transforms humble walnuts into a gourmet treat. Whether you’re prepping for the holidays or need a last-minute snack idea, this is one of those fast, easy recipes that belongs in every collection of snack and dessert ideas. Great for holiday parties, food gifting, or healthy-ish snacking with a twist!
Ingredients
1 cup raw walnut halves
1/3 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
2. In a nonstick skillet over medium heat, toast walnuts for 2–3 minutes until aromatic.
3. Add butter and sugar to the skillet. Stir constantly as sugar melts and the mixture thickens and caramelizes.
4. Stir in cinnamon, vanilla extract, and sea salt.
5. Continue to stir and coat the walnuts evenly until glossy and well-coated.
6. Transfer immediately to the prepared baking sheet and spread into a single layer.
7. Let cool for 10 minutes until toffee hardens.
8. Break apart any clusters before serving or storing.
Notes
For extra crunch and spice, try adding a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika.
Make sure to cool completely before storing to keep the toffee coating crisp.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: quick snack, easy walnut recipe, candied nuts, toffee walnuts, stovetop snack