Candied almonds

Candied Almonds Recipe

This is a simple recipe for candied almonds made with only three ingredients: almonds, sugar, and water. It’s quick and easy to prepare, perfect for evoking the cozy, festive feel of the holidays—or any time you want a sweet snack.
Instructions

Add almonds, sugar, and water to a deep pan and set the heat to medium. Stir patiently.
Steps the almonds go through:
The sugar dissolves into the water, forming a syrup.
As the water evaporates, the sugar coats the almonds, turning white.
The sugar then melts and caramelizes, creating a glossy finish on the almonds.
Once caramelized, pour the almonds onto parchment paper and separate them quickly with two forks before they harden and stick together.

Tips and Notes

Why do almonds turn shiny? If the almonds appear shiny, it means the sugar has fully melted. Remove them earlier if you prefer a crunchier sugar coating.
Origins of candied almonds: This treat dates back to Ancient Rome, where honey was originally used instead of sugar to coat almonds.
Are candied almonds healthy? While almonds are nutritious, the sugar coating adds extra calories. A few pieces are a delightful indulgence that won’t derail a balanced diet.
Easy cleanup: Contrary to popular belief, making candied almonds won’t ruin your pan. Soak it afterward, and it cleans up easily.

Variations and Gift Ideas

Double the batch for larger gatherings; it doesn’t take much more time.
Pack the almonds in decorative jars for thoughtful homemade gifts.

Enjoy the festive scent and flavor of homemade candied almonds!