5 Minute Caramel Walnuts

These 5-Minute Caramel Walnuts are a quick and delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of caramel with the satisfying crunch of walnuts. Perfect for snacking or as a topping for desserts, this easy recipe requires minimal ingredients and just a few minutes of your time.

The result is a sweet and salty indulgence that’s sure to impress friends and family. Whether enjoyed on their own or added to salads and desserts, these caramelized walnuts are an irresistible addition to any occasion!

5 Minute Caramel Walnuts

Ingredients

1 cup walnuts

¼ cup + 1 tablespoon golden brown sugar, both packed (do not use dark brown)

¼ cup water

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

⅛ teaspoon + 2 pinches salt

Instructions

Line a dinner plate or any heatproof dish with a piece of parchment paper, roughly the size of the plate. Set aside.

In a medium non-stick skillet, combine all ingredients except for the two pinches of salt.

Heat the skillet over high heat, stirring occasionally. After 5 minutes, start stirring continuously during the last minute and reduce the heat to medium. Cook until the liquid has evaporated and the nuts become darker and glossy, clumping together.

It’s crucial to ensure all the moisture is gone before removing the skillet from the heat.

Quickly transfer the walnuts to the prepared parchment, scraping any leftover caramel from the skillet. Spread the walnuts out in a single layer and sprinkle the remaining two pinches of salt evenly over them.

Allow the walnuts to cool to room temperature before breaking them apart with your fingers.

Store the walnuts in a container for several days—if they last that long!

Tips:

Non stick pan is a must.

You could use a small non-stick skillet, cooking time might take an additional 30-45 seconds

Notes:

Nut Variations: While walnuts are delicious, you can substitute them with other nuts like pecans, almonds, or cashews for a different flavor and texture.

Sugar Type: Using golden brown sugar is essential for achieving the right caramel flavor. Avoid using dark brown sugar as it may alter the taste and color of the caramel.

Cooking Time: Keep a close eye on the nuts during the last minute of cooking. The caramel can go from perfectly cooked to burnt very quickly.

Non-Stick Skillet: A non-stick skillet is crucial to prevent the nuts from sticking and to make cleanup easier.

Cooling Process: Allowing the walnuts to cool completely is important to ensure they become crisp. They may feel slightly sticky when warm but will harden as they cool.

Storage: Store the cooled walnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If they start to soften, you can re-crisp them in a low oven for a few minutes.

Serving Suggestions: These caramel walnuts are great on their own, but they can also be sprinkled over ice cream, yogurt, salads, or oatmeal for added crunch and sweetness.

Salt Balance: Adjust the amount of salt to your preference. A little salt enhances the sweetness of the caramel, but you can use less if desired.

Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or vanilla extract for additional flavor while cooking.

Parchment Paper: Using parchment paper is essential to prevent the walnuts from sticking as they cool. Avoid wax paper, as it may melt when exposed to heat.

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use other types of nuts?

Yes! You can substitute walnuts with pecans, almonds, or cashews.

Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the nut.

What can I do if my caramel burns?

If the caramel burns, it’s best to start over.

Keep a close eye on the nuts during the last minute of cooking to prevent burning.

How do I store leftover caramel walnuts?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

If they soften, you can re-crisp them in a low oven for a few minutes.

Can I make these nuts ahead of time?

Yes, you can make them ahead of time.

Just store them in an airtight container until you’re ready to enjoy them.

What if I don’t have brown sugar?

You can use white sugar, but the flavor and color of the caramel will differ.

To mimic brown sugar, you can mix white sugar with a bit of molasses.

Can I add spices to the caramel?

Absolutely! Feel free to add cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla extract during cooking for extra flavor.

How long should I cook the walnuts?

Cook the walnuts for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

During the last minute, stir continuously to ensure they don’t burn.

Are these nuts gluten-free?

Yes, the ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free, making them a great snack for those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I use a different type of fat instead of butter?

Yes, you can use coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute if you want a dairy-free option.

What are some serving suggestions for caramel walnuts?

These caramel walnuts are perfect as a standalone snack, or you can use them as a topping for ice cream, yogurt, salads, or oatmeal for added crunch and sweetness.