Spiced Roasted Almonds – Dive into the delightful world of Spiced Roasted Almonds, a scrumptious treat that can transform your appetizers or salads into a gourmet experience. Bursting with flavors from ground spices and perfectly caramelized sugar, this American treat is an instant favorite for many. Key ingredients include almonds, granulated sugar, and an array of spices.
The first time I made these Spiced Roasted Almonds, I was skeptical. Could something so simple truly be a showstopper? As the aroma of spices began to waft through my kitchen, I couldn’t resist grabbing a few from the pan. Before I knew it, my husband and child walked in, following their noses, eager to taste. The consensus? Absolutely addictive! I had to guard the tray to ensure there’d be some left for the salad!
What makes these Spiced Roasted Almonds truly special?
The allure of these Spiced Roasted Almonds lies not just in their rich, aromatic flavor but also in their versatility. Perfect as a standalone snack, they can effortlessly elevate a mundane salad or serve as a crunchy appetizer at dinner parties. Combining the health benefits of almonds with a quick 20-minute prep and cook time, this recipe offers a gourmet taste without the fuss, making it an instant favorite for both the health-conscious and those with a tight schedule.
What You Need To Make This Spiced Roasted Almonds Recipe?
Granulated Sugar: Granulated sugar serves as the foundation, for our caramelized coating giving the almonds a crunch and sweetness that beautifully complements the spices.
Spices: Our selected blend of ground cinnamon, cloves, allspice, ginger, and nutmeg creates a symphony of aromatic flavors. Each spice contributes its note resulting in incredibly fragrant and flavorful almonds.
Unsalted Almonds: It is important to use unsalted almonds to maintain the balance of our spice blend. These nuts not only offer nutrition. Also, provides a satisfying crunch and serves as a smooth canvas for the spices to take center stage.
Water and Vanilla Extract: Water is essential for dissolving the sugar and aiding in the caramelization process while vanilla extract adds a depth of flavor that enhances the sweetness and aroma of the almonds.
Salt: A touch of salt is included to create contrast and enhance the sweetness resulting in a rounded flavor profile, for our almonds.
Steps To Make Spiced Roasted Almonds:
Step 1: Start by prepping your workspace. Grab a rimmed baking sheet and give it a good lining with aluminum foil. Trust me; this makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Now, let’s create magic. Take a large non-stick skillet and into it goes water, sugar, and all those wonderful spices—cinnamon, cloves, allspice, ginger, nutmeg, vanilla, and a pinch of salt.
Step 3: Heat the mixture until it reaches a bubbling boil. At this point, toss in the almonds and vanilla, then dial the heat down to medium.
Step 4: This part requires a little patience. Keep stirring and cooking until you notice the water evaporating. The sugar will start to look coarse, almost sandy. But hold on, keep stirring. Soon, it’ll take on a beautiful glossy sheen. That’s your cue to transfer everything onto your prepped baking sheet.
Step 5: Here’s a little tip: As the nuts start cooling, use a wooden spoon to break any clumps. It ensures each almond is individually coated and easy to pick.
Step 6: Finally, let them harden and then…well, try not to eat them all at once!
Tip:
For a delightfully crunchy result consider briefly roasting the almonds in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 5 minutes before adding them to the sugar-spice mixture. This initial roasting step enhances the almond flavor absorption. Ensures an irresistibly crispy texture, with every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use a different type of nut?
Sure! While almonds have their unique flavor and texture feel free to try out pecans, walnuts or even cashews for a different twist. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How do I store these Spiced Roasted Almonds?
To keep these Spiced Roasted Almonds fresh store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay delicious for 2 weeks although I doubt they’ll last that long!
Can I adjust the level of sweetness?
Absolutely! If you prefer a less sweet taste you can decrease the amount of sugar used. Just make sure there’s still enough to coat the almonds.
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Spiced Roasted Almonds
Ingredients
- 2 c granulated sugar
- 1 c water
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp allspice
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3 c unsalted almonds
Instructions
- Start by preparing a baking sheet and lining it with aluminum foil.
- In a skillet combine water, sugar, cinnamon, cloves, allspice, ginger, nutmeg, vanilla and salt.
- Bring the mixture to a boil. Then add almonds. Reduce the heat to medium.
- Continue stirring until the water evaporates and the sugar becomes glossy.
- Spread the mixture onto the baking sheet while making sure to separate any clumps.
- Let it cool down and harden before serving. Enjoy your treat!
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
