Irresistible Orange Candied Almonds

These orange candied almonds bring a festive crunch and bright citrus flavor to your holiday snack table. Sweetened with caramelized sugar and infused with fresh orange zest, they make for an irresistible treat that guests love and kids ask for again and again.

I first made these almonds during a holiday gathering, and they quickly became the star snack that everyone reached for throughout the evening

Ingredients

• Two cups raw almonds: these should be fresh and plump for the best crunch and flavor
• Half a cup granulated sugar: this is what creates the candied coating, so use pure white sugar for a clean caramel taste
• Quarter cup water: helps dissolve the sugar and form that glossy glaze
• One tablespoon orange zest: fresh zest brings a bright and natural citrus aroma, so opt for organic oranges if you can
• Half a teaspoon ground cinnamon: adds warm spice and depth, but skip it if you prefer just the orange flavor
• Pinch of salt: balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors
• Optional additions: include a few drops of vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg or clove to give a cozy holiday spice twist

Step-by-Step Instructions

Toast the Almonds:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Spread the almonds evenly on a baking sheet and toast them for 8 to 10 minutes until you can smell their nutty aroma. This step is optional but it deepens the flavor and enhances the crunch.

Prepare the Sugar Mixture:

In a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat, combine the sugar, water, orange zest, and cinnamon if using. Stir consistently until the sugar fully dissolves into the water and forms a syrup. This step sets the stage for that beautiful candied coating.

Add the Almonds:

Immediately toss in the toasted almonds and keep stirring them frequently. The liquid will thicken and start to crystallize after about 8 to 10 minutes. Be patient here because even though the mixture looks grainy at first, it will soon transform.

Caramelize:

Continue stirring as the sugar melts again, coating the almonds in a shiny, sweet glaze. This glossy finish makes the almonds look as good as they taste. Keep the heat moderate to avoid burning the sugar.

Cool and Store:

Transfer the almonds onto parchment paper and use a spatula to separate them as they cool to prevent clumping. Let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to two weeks at room temperature.

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The orange zest is my favorite part. It adds just the right amount of citrus brightness that cuts through the sweetness and makes these almonds so memorable. One year, my family snacked on a big batch of these while decorating the tree, and it became our little ritual that we still repeat every holiday season.

Storage Tips

Keep the almonds in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid refrigerating as this can cause the sugar coating to become sticky from moisture. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed container, and they will keep well for up to three months.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have oranges, lemon or lime zest can be an exciting substitute offering a different but delightful citrus note. You can also swap raw almonds for raw pecans or walnuts and adjust toasting time accordingly. Maple syrup could be used instead of granulated sugar but expect a softer candy texture.

Serving Suggestions

These candied almonds are fantastic all on their own as a snack but also make a beautiful topping for hot chocolate, salads, or homemade granola. Try sprinkling them atop vanilla or pumpkin ice cream for a sweet and crunchy contrast.

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Cultural Context

Candied nuts have a long tradition in holiday baking and snacking across many cultures. The sweetness and warmth symbolize celebration and comfort, making them a perfect treat for cold winter months and festive occasions.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I prevent the sugar from burning when coating the almonds?

Use a heavy-bottomed pan and stir constantly over medium heat to ensure even cooking without burning.

→ Can I add spices to enhance the flavor?

Yes, adding cinnamon, nutmeg, or clove creates a warm holiday spice blend that complements the orange zest well.

→ What is the best way to toast the almonds?

Spread almonds on a baking sheet and toast in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned.

→ How should I store these candied almonds?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks to maintain crispness and flavor.

→ Can these almonds be frozen?

Yes, seal them in an airtight container or freezer bag and store for up to three months to preserve freshness.