Make Sugared Nuts
Sugared nuts are sweet and spicy treats that make a great addition to any party table. Packaged in decorative containers, they can also be handed out as delicious homemade gifts. This recipe can be easily adapted to reflect regional and personal preferences, using nuts commonly found in your area or popular combinations of spices. The end product stores well, so you can always have a ready supply on hand.
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Spread the nuts evenly across an ungreased baking sheet, and place the sheet in the oven for eight to 10 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Remove the nuts from the oven, and allow them to cool slightly.
2. Combine the sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, butter and water in a saucepan while the toasted nuts are cooling. Cook the sugar mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar completely dissolves. Add the nuts, and mix until all the nuts are evenly coated with the sugar syrup.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, and distribute the nuts evenly across the paper. Place the nuts into the oven, and bake for 15 minutes. Once every five minutes, remove the nuts from the oven and give them a quick stir to ensure even baking and to visually confirm that they are in no danger of scorching.
4. Remove the baking sheet from the oven when the glaze on the nuts is crisp and golden brown. Allow the sugared nuts to cool completely before sampling.
5. Add other spices to suit your tastes. Some common additions include allspice, ground cloves, ginger, nutmeg and vanilla. Stir in 1/4 to 1/2 tsp. of your favorites to achieve a custom blend. For a more elegant version, add 1 tbsp. of orange liqueur and ½ tsp. of grated orange peel.
Tags: , from oven, nuts evenly, , golden brown