Orange Candied Almonds
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Elevate your snack game with these delightful Orange Candied Almonds. This recipe combines the crunch of roasted almonds with the bright, zesty flavor of orange syrup, creating a sweet and tangy treat perfect for holiday gatherings or as a tasty topping for salads and desserts. Quick and easy to make, these almonds are a delightful way to add a burst of citrus to your snacking experience.
Orange Candied Almonds are the perfect combination of crunch and sweetness, making them an irresistible snack. The vibrant orange flavor adds a fresh twist that can brighten up any dish.
A Flavorful Treat for Any Occasion
Orange Candied Almonds offer a unique flavor profile that combines the nuttiness of almonds with the bright, citrusy notes of orange. This delightful snack is perfect for a variety of occasions, whether you’re hosting a holiday party, gifting them in beautiful jars, or simply enjoying them yourself. Their vibrant flavor and crunchy texture make them a delightful option for elevating your everyday snacking.
With the sweetness of the sugar and the zestiness from the orange, these candied almonds can easily be transformed into an elegant topping for desserts or salads. Imagine adding a sprinkle of these golden nuggets over a creamy cheesecake or a vibrant green salad—it’s a simple way to impress your guests while bringing a touch of gourmet flair to your meals.
Health Benefits of Almonds
Almonds are packed with nutritional benefits that make them a healthy choice for snacking. They are an excellent source of healthy fats, fiber, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. Eating almonds can support heart health, assist in weight management, and promote skin health due to their high vitamin E content.
Moreover, pairing almonds with the natural sweetness of orange adds another layer of health benefits. Oranges are rich in vitamin C, which is essential for immune health and skin vitality. By indulging in this sweet treat, you’re not only satisfying your taste buds but also nourishing your body with positive nutrients.
Perfect for Gifting
If you’re looking for a thoughtful and delicious gift, look no further than Orange Candied Almonds. These sweet, crunchy snacks can be packaged beautifully in jars, tied with a festive ribbon, and given to family and friends during the holiday season or for special occasions. Homemade gifts carry a personal touch that store-bought items often lack.
Additionally, customizing your recipe is quite simple. You can experiment with adding other spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a unique flavor twist, making them even more special for your recipients. This flexibility also allows you to cater to different taste preferences, ensuring that everyone will enjoy this delightful treat.
Ingredients
Orange Candied Almonds
- 2 cups whole almonds, roasted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- Zest of 1 large orange
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Make sure to have everything measured and ready before you start!
Instructions
Prepare the Syrup
In a saucepan, combine sugar, water, and orange zest. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
Add the Almonds
Add the roasted almonds to the syrup and stir to coat them evenly.
Cook the Almonds
Cook the almonds in the syrup, stirring frequently for about 10-15 minutes, until the syrup thickens and coats the almonds.
Cool and Serve
Spread the almonds onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and allow them to cool completely before serving.
Enjoy your Orange Candied Almonds as a snack or a decorative topping!
Storage Tips
Proper storage of your Orange Candied Almonds is essential to maximize their freshness and crunch. Once they’ve cooled completely, transfer them to an airtight container to protect them from moisture and air. When stored correctly, they can last for several weeks, making them a convenient snack option.
Be mindful that exposure to humidity can make the candies lose their crunch. It’s best to store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If you plan to keep them for a long time, consider refrigerating them, though this may affect their texture slightly.
Serving Suggestions
These Orange Candied Almonds can be enjoyed in various ways, making them a versatile addition to your snack repertoire. Serve them as a standalone treat during movie nights or alongside your afternoon tea for a refreshing twist. Their sweet and tangy flavor also complements a cheese platter beautifully, pairing well with brie or gouda.
For a creative twist, incorporate them into your baking. Add a handful to muffin or cookie batter for a delightful citrus surprise, or use them as a decoration on cakes or desserts. Their bright color and unique flavor will instantly elevate any dish, making it visually appealing and delicious.
Variations to Try
While the classic Orange Candied Almonds recipe is a delectable treat on its own, there are several variations you can explore. Consider adding spices such as cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a spicy kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the orange. This combination will provide a sophisticated flavor profile that’s sure to tantalize the taste buds.
Another enjoyable variation involves using different citrus fruits like lemon or lime for the syrup. Each fruit brings its own unique twist, allowing you to tailor the recipe to your liking. Experimenting with these variations not only keeps your snacks interesting but also inspires creativity in the kitchen.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use different nuts?
Yes, you can substitute almonds with other nuts like pecans or walnuts.
→ How long do they last?
Stored in an airtight container, these almonds can last up to two weeks.
Orange Candied Almonds
Elevate your snack game with these delightful Orange Candied Almonds. This recipe combines the crunch of roasted almonds with the bright, zesty flavor of orange syrup, creating a sweet and tangy treat perfect for holiday gatherings or as a tasty topping for salads and desserts. Quick and easy to make, these almonds are a delightful way to add a burst of citrus to your snacking experience.
Created by: Olivia
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Orange Candied Almonds
- 2 cups whole almonds, roasted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- Zest of 1 large orange
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
How-To Steps
In a saucepan, combine sugar, water, and orange zest. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
Add the roasted almonds to the syrup and stir to coat them evenly.
Cook the almonds in the syrup, stirring frequently for about 10-15 minutes, until the syrup thickens and coats the almonds.
Spread the almonds onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and allow them to cool completely before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 200
- Total Fat: 15g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Sugar: 20g