When the first hints of winter arrive, my kitchen transforms into a haven of warmth and delightful aromas. One of my favorite treats to whip up during this cozy season is a batch of Orange Candied Almonds. These little gems are not just any snack; they're a perfect blend of crunchy nuts and zesty citrus that brings a smile to everyone’s face. The first time I made them, I was surprised at how effortlessly they transformed my mundane afternoon into a festive celebration.
With a delightful crunch encapsulated in a sweet, candy-like coating complemented by citrus notes, they make for an irresistible snack or a thoughtful homemade gift. The best part? They’re incredibly easy to prepare and offer joy beyond their flavor. So whether you're looking for a festive treat to share or aiming to elevate your snacking game, these zesty Orange Candied Almonds are a surefire hit! Let's dive into how you can create this sweet treat that will surely impress family and friends alike.
Why Choose Orange Candied Almonds?
Irresistible Treat: These Orange Candied Almonds provide a tangy twist on regular snacks, making them unforgettable.
Simple to Make: With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these up in no time.
Perfect for Gifting: Their eye-catching appearance and delightful flavor make them a charming homemade gift during the holiday season.
Versatile Snacking: Whether enjoyed on their own, as a topping for salads, or alongside cheeses, they elevate any dish.
Crowd-Pleaser: Guaranteed to impress guests at gatherings, these almonds are a hit for all ages.
Enjoy your cozy moments with this festive and flavorful snack that brings smiles to every occasion!
Orange Candied Almonds Ingredients
• Note: Gather these ingredients to create your delightful Orange Candied Almonds.
For the Almonds
• Raw Almonds (2 cups) - The star ingredient, providing crunch and a nutty flavor.
• Egg White - Acts as a binder for the sugar, ensuring that the coatings stick well.
For the Sugar Mixture
• White Granulated Sugar - Essential for sweetness and creating that candy coating.
• Brown Sugar - Adds depth and moisture to the sweet mix. Can be blended with coconut sugar for a vegan alternative.
• Salt - Enhances the overall flavor profile and balances the sweetness.
• Orange Zest (from 1 orange) - Infuses a bright, aromatic citrus flavor; consider using lemon zest for a unique twist.
• Fresh Orange Juice (1½ teaspoons) - Adds moisture and enhances the citrus punch.
This simple combination of ingredients allows you to whip up tantalizing Orange Candied Almonds that will delight your family and friends!
How to Make Orange Candied Almonds
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with foil to make clean-up a breeze.
- Mix the sugars: In a medium bowl, combine the white sugar, brown sugar, salt, and orange zest. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Whisk the egg white: In a large bowl, whisk the egg white until it becomes frothy. Slowly mix in the fresh orange juice to create a binding agent for your nuts.
- Coat the almonds: Add the raw almonds to the egg white mixture, making sure each nut is fully coated for maximum flavor.
- Combine with sugar: Gradually stir in the sugar mixture, ensuring that all the almonds are coated with the delightful sweet mixture.
- Bake the almonds: Spread the coated almonds in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, stirring every 20 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Cool before serving: Once baked, allow the almonds to cool completely on the baking sheet to maintain their crispy texture.
Optional: For an extra touch, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top after baking for an enhanced flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Orange Candied Almonds
- Even Coating: Ensure each almond is fully coated in the egg white mixture before adding the sugar blend for best results.
- Watch the Oven: Keep a close eye on the baking time; stirring every 20 minutes prevents burning and ensures even caramelization of the sugars.
- Cooling Time: Allow the almonds to cool completely after baking; this is crucial for achieving that irresistible crunch in your Orange Candied Almonds.
- Experiment with Nuts: Feel free to substitute the almonds with your favorite nuts like walnuts or pecans for a different flavor profile.
- Storage Life: Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to 2 weeks; they make a great snack or gift!
Orange Candied Almonds Variations
Feel free to explore these fun twists on your Orange Candied Almonds to create your perfect snack!
- Nut Swap: Try using raw cashews, pecans, or walnuts for a different nutty flavor.
- Citrus Burst: Add a few drops of orange extract to the egg white mixture for an intense orange flavor.
- Sweet Spice: Sprinkle in cinnamon or nutmeg to the sugar mixture for a warm, spiced twist.
- Chocolate Drizzle: After cooling, drizzle with melted dark chocolate for a decadent sweet treat.
- Zesty Lemon: Substitute orange zest with lemon zest for a refreshing citrus variation.
- Maple Magic: Replace brown sugar with maple syrup for a rich, earthy sweetness.
- Cayenne Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sugar mixture for a spicy heat that compliments the sweetness.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute egg white with a mixture of cornstarch and water for a vegan-friendly option.
Have fun experimenting and make these delicious nuts uniquely yours!
What to Serve with Orange Candied Almonds?
Indulging in these zesty delights invites a cozy gathering full of delightful flavors and textures.
Cheese Platter: A selection of creamy cheeses pairs beautifully with the crunchy sweetness, creating a delightful contrast that pleases the palate.
Green Salad: Add candied almonds to your favorite salad for a delicious crunch that complements fresh greens and tangy dressings.
Charcuterie Board: Use these almonds as a sweet addition to your charcuterie board, balancing the savory meats and cheeses perfectly. They add a festive touch that invites sharing.
Dark Chocolate: The rich bitterness of dark chocolate enhances the sweetness of the almonds, creating an indulgent pairing perfect for dessert lovers.
Whiskey or Bourbon: A glass of whiskey or bourbon highlights the caramel notes in the candied almonds, making each sip and crunch a sophisticated experience.
Cranberry Sauce: Serve alongside a tangy cranberry sauce for a burst of festive flavor that elevates your holiday snacks. The tartness contrasts perfectly with the sweet nuts.
Make Ahead Options
These Orange Candied Almonds are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the almonds by coating them in the egg white and sugar mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the initial steps, then cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. This way, the flavors will meld beautifully, ensuring the nuts are just as delicious. When you’re set to finish, simply spread them out on the baking sheet and bake as instructed. Storing the cooled candy in an airtight container will maintain their crunch for 1-2 weeks. This makes them an ideal treat for busy days or festive gatherings!
How to Store and Freeze Orange Candied Almonds
Airtight Container: Keep your Orange Candied Almonds in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1-2 weeks to maintain their crunchiness.
Cool, Dark Place: Store the container in a cool, dark location, away from sunlight, to prevent any moisture or flavor loss.
Freezer Storage: For longer preservation, freeze the almonds in an airtight bag for up to 3 months. Ensure they’re well-sealed to avoid freezer burn.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to bring back their delightful crunch.
Orange Candied Almonds Recipe FAQs
What kind of almonds should I use?
I recommend using raw almonds for this recipe, as they provide the best texture and flavor. You can also experiment with other nuts like cashews, pecans, or walnuts if you want to mix things up.
How should I store Orange Candied Almonds?
Store your Orange Candied Almonds in an airtight container at room temperature, ideally in a cool, dark place. They will stay fresh and delicious for about 1-2 weeks, offering a crunchy snack whenever you crave something sweet.
Can I freeze Orange Candied Almonds?
Absolutely! For longer storage, you can freeze the Orange Candied Almonds. Place them in an airtight bag, ensuring all the air is squeezed out to prevent freezer burn, and keep them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
What should I do if my almonds are sticking together?
If your almonds clump together after baking, it may be because they didn't have enough space while cooling. To resolve this, break apart clumps gently with your fingers when they are cool, or simply give them a stir. If they're still sticky after baking, they might need a bit more time to cool to achieve that perfect crunch!
Are these Orange Candied Almonds safe for people with nut allergies?
Unfortunately, if someone has a nut allergy, these Orange Candied Almonds are not safe to consume. For alternative treats, consider making candied seeds (like pumpkin or sunflower seeds) which can be similarly enhanced with flavors but are free from nut allergens.
How can I enhance the orange flavor in the recipe?
For a more pronounced orange flavor, feel free to add a few drops of orange extract to the egg white mixture before coating the almonds. This will give a delightful burst of citrus that complements the nuts perfectly!
Irresistibly Crunchy Orange Candied Almonds for Gifting
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with foil.
- In a medium bowl, combine the white sugar, brown sugar, salt, and orange zest. Stir well.
- In a large bowl, whisk the egg white until frothy. Mix in the fresh orange juice.
- Add the raw almonds to the egg white mixture, ensuring each nut is fully coated.
- Gradually stir in the sugar mixture, ensuring all almonds are coated evenly.
- Spread the coated almonds in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 20 minutes.
- Allow the almonds to cool completely on the baking sheet before serving.
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