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5 Minute Caramel Walnuts

Dive into a delightful blend of wholesome walnuts enrobed in a light caramel glaze. With a perfect balance of sweet and salty, these glossy treats are not only easy to whip up but are incredibly addictive. Ideal for a quick snack or a gourmet addition to dishes, they're sure to be a hit in any setting. Don't expect them to last long in the storage jar!
4.75 from 4 votes
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Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 1 minute
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 6 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • 1 cup wholesome walnuts
  • ¼ cup + 1 tbsp light brown sugar firmly packed (avoid using deep brown varieties)
  • ¼ cup pure water
  • 1 tbsp creamy unsalted butter
  • A dash of salt plus an extra two pinches for finishing

Instructions

  • Prepare Your Setting: Lay out a sheet of parchment paper on a flat dinner plate or another heat-resistant surface. This will be your cooling station, so ensure it's within arm's reach.
  • Mix to Begin: In a medium-sized non-stick frying pan, combine walnuts, light brown sugar, water, butter, and the dash of salt.
  • Cooking Process: Turn on the stove and set it to a high flame. As the mixture begins to heat up, stir it now and then for around 5 minutes. By the last minute, shift to a more consistent stir while dialing the heat down to medium. The goal is to witness the transformation of the mixture - from watery to glossy, and the nuts should appear as if they're dancing together in a caramel embrace.
  • Check the Consistency: Before removing from the heat, ensure every drop of liquid has evaporated. The caramelized nuts should have a sticky, luscious texture.
  • Cool and Season: Swiftly transfer the caramel-coated walnuts to the prepared parchment paper, ensuring they lay flat in a singular layer. While still hot and sticky, sprinkle the two pinches of salt over them for that perfect sweet-salty balance.
  • Break and Store: Once cooled to room temperature, you can break apart the clusters. Pop these delightful treats into a container and store them for several days. However, given their addictive taste, they might just disappear before you know it!