Get ready to transform ordinary almonds into an irresistible gourmet treat that will have everyone begging for your secret recipe! These Sweet and Salty Candied Sliced Almonds are not just a snack – they're a culinary experience that bridges the gap between decadent dessert and crunchy, savory delight. In just 20 minutes, you'll create a versatile topping that can elevate everything from salads to ice cream, turning simple dishes into restaurant-worthy masterpieces.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 1 cup
Ingredients
- 1 cup sliced almonds
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Gather all the ingredients: 1 cup sliced almonds, 1/2 cup sugar, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract. Make sure you have a non-stick skillet or frying pan ready for cooking.
- Place the skillet over medium heat and add the unsalted butter. Allow the butter to melt completely, swirling the pan gently to coat the bottom evenly.
- Once the butter has melted, add the sliced almonds to the skillet. Stir the almonds to coat them in the melted butter.
- Sprinkle the sugar evenly over the almonds. Continue to stir constantly to prevent the sugar from burning and to ensure that the almonds are evenly coated.
- After about 2-3 minutes, the sugar will begin to melt and caramelize. Keep stirring the mixture to ensure that the almonds are evenly coated and that the sugar does not stick to the bottom of the pan.
- Once the sugar has fully melted and turned a golden brown color (about 5-7 minutes), add the salt and vanilla extract to the mixture. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, ensuring the almonds are well coated.
- Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the almonds are evenly caramelized and have a glossy finish.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and carefully transfer the candied almonds to a sheet of parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Spread them out in a single layer to cool.
- Allow the candied almonds to cool completely at room temperature, which will take about 5-10 minutes. As they cool, they will harden and become crunchy.
- Once cooled, break apart any clusters of almonds and store them in an airtight container. Enjoy your sweet and salty candied sliced almonds as a snack or topping for salads and desserts!
Tips
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent sugar from sticking and burning
- Keep the heat at medium and stir constantly to ensure even caramelization
- Watch the color carefully - you want a golden brown, not dark brown which can taste bitter
- Spread almonds immediately on parchment paper to prevent clumping
- Let almonds cool completely for maximum crunchiness
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to a week
- For extra flavor, experiment with adding a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of cayenne pepper during cooking
- Use a wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula for stirring to prevent scratching your pan
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 5mg
