If you’ve ever craved a snack that perfectly balances sweet and crunchy, look no further than this Candied Sugar Peanuts Recipe. These delightfully caramelized peanuts offer an irresistible golden glaze that clings to every nut, creating a treat that’s both nostalgic and fresh. Whether you’re after a quick homemade snack or a charming addition to your dessert table, this recipe brings together just a few simple ingredients to craft something absolutely memorable. Get ready to dive into a world where sugar, vanilla, and roasted peanuts come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Candied Sugar Peanuts Recipe lies in the simplicity and quality of its ingredients. Each component plays a starring role, from the crunchy base to the caramelized coating that makes these peanuts so special.
- 2 cups unsalted roasted peanuts: These provide the perfect nutty crunch and balance the sweetness without overwhelming saltiness.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: The key to that luscious, caramelized coating that turns plain peanuts into a treat.
- 1/3 cup water: Helps dissolve sugar evenly and creates the gooey texture needed for caramelization.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, fragrant note that elevates the flavor from simple sweet to spectacularly rich.
How to Make Candied Sugar Peanuts Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
Before you start cooking, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This little prep step ensures the sticky peanuts won’t cling to your pan, making clean-up a breeze and allowing the nuts to cool evenly.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in a Skillet
In a large skillet, toss together the roasted peanuts, granulated sugar, and water. Bring this mixture to a steady boil over medium-high heat while stirring constantly. This constant stirring prevents the sugar from burning and ensures an even coating on each peanut.
Step 3: Caramelize the Sugar
As the mixture boils, keep stirring until the water evaporates and the sugar turns gooey and caramelizes. This stage is crucial because the sugar must transform from liquid to that perfect sticky, golden caramel that will cling to each peanut like a delicious cloak.
Step 4: Finish with Vanilla and Cool
Once the caramel is fully formed and coats the peanuts beautifully, remove the skillet from the heat. Quickly stir in the vanilla extract, which adds a wonderful aromatic depth that makes these peanuts irresistible. Spread the mixture evenly over the lined baking sheet and allow it to cool completely. As it cools, the caramel hardens, turning into a satisfyingly crisp shell around each peanut.
Step 5: Break and Store
After the peanuts have cooled and hardened, break them apart into individual pieces or clusters. Store them in an airtight container to keep that perfect crunch and sweetness fresh for days.
How to Serve Candied Sugar Peanuts Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a light dusting of flaky sea salt over the finished candied peanuts for a sophisticated salty-sweet twist. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne powder if you want a little warming spice that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
Side Dishes
Candied sugar peanuts pair wonderfully with a cozy bowl of vanilla ice cream or a rich chocolate dessert. They also make a sweet, crunchy contrast when served alongside fresh fruit slices or a creamy yogurt parfait.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or gifting, pack these candies into small mason jars or colorful cellophane bags tied with a ribbon. Use them as a topping over cupcakes, salads with mixed greens, or even sprinkled on top of a cheese board for unexpected texture and sweetness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover candied sugar peanuts in an airtight container at room temperature. They keep well for up to two weeks, maintaining their crispy, caramelized goodness without losing flavor or texture.
Freezing
If you want to preserve them longer, freezing is a great option. Place the peanuts in a sealed freezer bag with excess air removed. When correctly stored, they can last for up to three months in the freezer. Just thaw to room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating
To bring back their fresh-baked crunch after storage, pop them in a low oven (around 250°F or 120°C) for 5-7 minutes. This gentle heat refreshes the caramel coating without melting it further. Allow them to cool a bit before eating.
FAQs
Can I use salted peanuts in this Candied Sugar Peanuts Recipe?
Yes, you can use salted peanuts if you prefer a salty-sweet profile, but be cautious with adding extra salt later. Unsalted peanuts give more control over the overall flavor balance.
Is it possible to make this recipe with other nuts?
Absolutely! Almonds, cashews, and pecans can be swapped in with great results. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different nuts may caramelize at slightly different rates.
Why does the sugar sometimes crystallize instead of caramelize?
This usually happens if the sugar isn’t stirred constantly or if impurities disturb the process. Make sure to stir steadily and keep the heat consistent to achieve that smooth caramel.
Can I skip the vanilla extract?
While vanilla adds a lovely depth of flavor, the recipe will still work without it. You might miss a bit of warmth, but the sugary caramel coating will still shine.
How do I prevent the peanuts from sticking together in one big clump?
Once cooled, gently break apart the peanuts by hand or with a spatula. Avoid shaking the container vigorously, which can cause clumping. Storing in a single layer when cooling helps as well.
Final Thoughts
This Candied Sugar Peanuts Recipe is a little treasure that’s easy to make, delightfully crunchy, and wonderfully sweet. It’s one of those nostalgic treats that never fails to bring a smile, whether shared with friends or savored alone. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite snack to keep on hand for whenever a sweet craving strikes.
Print
Candied Sugar Peanuts Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Candied Sugar Peanuts recipe offers a delightful combination of crunchy roasted peanuts coated in a sweet, caramelized sugar glaze infused with vanilla. Perfect as a snack or a sweet treat, these peanuts have a rich flavor and satisfying texture that is easy to make within 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 cups unsalted roasted peanuts
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup water
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside. This will be used later to cool the peanuts and prevent sticking.
- Combine ingredients in skillet: In a large skillet, combine the peanuts, granulated sugar, and water. Place the skillet over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Caramelize sugar: Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and continue stirring the mixture. Cook until all the water evaporates and the sugar turns into a gooey caramel coat, sticking to the peanuts.
- Finish cooking peanuts: Continue cooking and stirring until the sugar has fully caramelized and coats the peanuts evenly, with no liquid sugar left in the pan.
- Add vanilla extract: Remove the skillet from heat immediately and stir in the 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract to infuse flavor throughout the mixture.
- Cool and store: Spread the coated peanuts evenly onto the prepared baking sheet to cool completely. Once cooled, break the clusters into individual pieces and store them in an airtight container for freshness.
Notes
- Stir constantly during caramelization to prevent burning.
- Use parchment paper to ensure easy removal of cooled peanuts.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
- Can be customized with spices like cinnamon or cayenne for extra flavor.
