Easy Caramelized Walnuts with Maple Syrup
These easy caramelized walnuts with maple syrup are a quick, naturally sweetened snack made with just a handful of wholesome ingredients. Sweet, crunchy, slightly salty, and ready in under 10 minutes, they're perfect for snack boards, salads, oatmeal, desserts, and lunchboxes.
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 165kcal
Cost: 1
Equipment
- non-stick skillet
- mixing bowl small
- wooden spoon or spatula
- parchment paper
- baking sheet or large plate
- fork for separating walnuts
- airtight container for storage
Ingredients
- 2 cups walnut halves
- 3 tbsp pure maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet or large plate with parchment paper and set aside.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium to medium-high heat.
- Add the walnut halves and toast for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and lightly golden.
- In a small bowl, combine the maple syrup, vanilla extract, sea salt, and cinnamon if using.
- Pour the maple mixture over the walnuts and stir constantly for 3 to 5 minutes until the syrup thickens, coats the walnuts completely, and no liquid remains in the pan.
- Immediately transfer the walnuts to the prepared parchment paper and separate them with a fork before the coating hardens.
- Allow the walnuts to cool completely for 20 to 30 minutes until crisp.
- Transfer to an airtight container or glass jar and store at room temperature.
Notes
Cook the maple syrup until no liquid remains in the pan for the perfect crunchy coating. Spread the walnuts apart immediately after cooking and allow them to cool completely before storing. Optional cinnamon adds warmth, while vanilla can be omitted for savory applications.