Cinnamon Praline Nuts

Introduction

Cinnamon Praline Nuts are the ultimate treat for anyone who enjoys a sweet and crunchy snack with a touch of sophistication. These nuts are coated in a rich, spiced glaze that’s made from cinnamon, brown sugar, and just a hint of vanilla, creating a sticky, caramelized coating that’s irresistible. Whether you’re looking for the perfect gift, a party snack, or just something special to enjoy with a cup of coffee, these cinnamon praline nuts check all the boxes.

What makes these nuts stand out is their texture—the warm, spiced coating contrasts beautifully with the crunchy, roasted nuts. It’s a treat that feels both indulgent and satisfying. I remember making them for the first time during the holiday season, and they quickly became a favorite. They’re the kind of snack you can’t stop nibbling on once you start, with the blend of sweetness and cinnamon filling the room with mouthwatering aromas as they bake.

What I love most about this recipe is how customizable it is. You can mix and match different nuts depending on what you have on hand or to suit your taste. Pecans, almonds, or walnuts all work wonderfully! It’s also a great option for preparing in bulk, especially for holiday gift giving or hosting large gatherings. Once you try Cinnamon Praline Nuts, you’ll find yourself making them every chance you get—they’re just that irresistible!

Perfect For

This recipe is ideal for holiday parties, gifts, or whenever you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying treat. Serve them during movie nights, as a hostess gift, or sprinkle them over salads or desserts for an extra touch of flavor and crunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Sweet and Spicy: The warm cinnamon flavor combined with the sugary praline coating creates a perfect balance of flavors.
• Crunchy Texture: These nuts become beautifully crunchy with the caramelized coating, offering a satisfying snack.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with just a few basic pantry ingredients, they are easy to make but taste incredibly decadent.
• Versatile Snack: Enjoy them on their own, as part of a snack mix, or even sprinkled over oatmeal, yogurt, or ice cream.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 10-12
• Calories Per Serving: Approximately 200 calories per 1/4 cup
• Key Nutrients Per Serving:
  • Protein: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 23g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 18g

Ingredients

• 2 cups mixed nuts (such as almonds, pecans, or cashews)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp water

Ingredient Highlights

• Mixed Nuts: These provide a healthy, crunchy base for the praline coating and are packed with healthy fats.
• Brown Sugar: Adds a deep, molasses-like sweetness, which complements the cinnamon and gives the praline coating its rich flavor.
• Maple Syrup: Adds a touch of natural sweetness and flavor to the praline coating.
• Cinnamon: Infuses the nuts with a warm, spicy aroma and taste that’s perfect for autumn or holiday seasons.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Prepare the Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, salt, vanilla extract, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves, and the mixture comes to a simmer (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Toss the Nuts: In a large mixing bowl, add your mixed nuts and pour the cinnamon praline glaze over them. Toss to coat the nuts evenly in the syrupy mixture.
4. Coat the Nuts: Spread the coated nuts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes to ensure even coating and avoid burning.
5. Cool and Serve: Once the nuts are golden brown and crisp, remove from the oven and allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet. The praline coating will harden as it cools. Once cooled, break them apart and serve or store.

How to Serve

Cinnamon Praline Nuts can be served on their own as a crunchy snack, or they can be added to trail mixes, yogurt, salads, or even sprinkled over ice cream for a sweet, crunchy topping.

Additional Tips

• Storing: Once cooled, store the cinnamon praline nuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
• Even Coating: Make sure to stir the nuts every 5 minutes while baking to prevent the praline from sticking to the pan and to coat the nuts evenly.
• Sweetness Level: You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar according to your personal preference.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Kick:
  • If you’re a fan of heat, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze will give your mixed nuts an irresistible spicy kick. The warmth of the cayenne perfectly complements the sweetness of the glaze, adding an extra layer of depth and making each bite more exciting. You can adjust the level of heat to your preference by starting with a small amount and gradually increasing it. For even more heat, feel free to add a dash of chili powder or smoked paprika, bringing a smoky and spicy flavor to the mix. This spicy variation is sure to satisfy those who love a little heat with their sweet.
• Nut-Free Option:
  • For those who have nut allergies or prefer to avoid nuts, swapping the mixed nuts for seeds is an excellent way to make this recipe both safe and equally delicious. Pumpkin seeds (pepitas) and sunflower seeds are perfect substitutes as they still provide crunch and texture while being nut-free. These seeds will absorb the glaze in the same way as nuts, offering a satisfyingly crispy finish. Additionally, they bring their own mild, earthy flavor that complements the sweetness of the glaze beautifully, creating a snack that’s just as flavorful and enjoyable as the nut version.
• Sugar-Free Option:
  • If you’re looking to reduce your sugar intake or make a healthier version of this treat, you can easily swap out the brown sugar for a sugar substitute like Stevia, monk fruit, or erythritol. These alternatives provide the same sweetness without the added calories, making them great for those on low-carb or sugar-reduced diets. They are often much sweeter than regular sugar, so you’ll need to adjust the amount accordingly to achieve the desired level of sweetness. With this swap, you can still enjoy a delicious, caramelized glaze while keeping it lighter and guilt-free.

Freezing and Storage

Storage in Freezer:
For long-term storage, cinnamon praline nuts can be kept in the freezer in an airtight container or a resealable bag for up to 3 months. Freezing is a great way to preserve their freshness, as it helps to maintain the crunchy texture and the delightful flavors of the praline glaze. Make sure the container or bag is well-sealed to prevent moisture from affecting the nuts during storage. For added convenience, you can portion the praline nuts into smaller, single-serving bags before freezing, making it easier to grab a quick snack whenever you need it.

Serving After Freezing:
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen cinnamon praline nuts, simply remove the portion you want to serve and let them thaw at room temperature for about 10 minutes. The thawing process will allow them to regain their optimal texture, making them just as crispy and delicious as they were when freshly made. Since the glaze will not freeze into a solid block, there’s no need to worry about a loss of flavor or texture—just a few minutes at room temperature is all it takes to enjoy them again.

Special Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Saucepan
• Mixing bowl

FAQ Section

Q: Can I use just one type of nut?
A: Yes, you can use just one type of nut, such as pecans or almonds, if preferred.

Q: Can I adjust the sweetness of the praline coating?
A: Absolutely! You can increase or decrease the amount of sugar depending on your desired level of sweetness.

Q: How can I prevent the nuts from burning?
A: Stirring the nuts every 5 minutes while they bake is key to ensuring they don’t burn. You can also lower the temperature by 25°F if you find they’re cooking too quickly.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Praline Nuts are a sweet and irresistible snack that combines the warm flavors of cinnamon with the rich taste of caramelized praline. Perfect for gifting or serving as a party treat, these nuts have a crunchy, addictive texture and a deep, comforting sweetness. They’re an ideal option for a quick snack or a crunchy addition to salads and desserts.

Making these candied nuts is simple, and you can experiment with various nut types to create your perfect blend. Once you’ve tasted the first handful, you’ll likely find it hard to stop! Their combination of warmth and sweetness will make them an easy favorite at any occasion.

Enjoy the delicious process of making your own batch and don’t forget to share your creation! Tag me when you’ve baked your own batch. Happy snacking!