Praline Almonds Recipe
Introduction
Praline Almonds are a sweet and crunchy treat that’s perfect for snacking or adding a crunchy topping to desserts. This easy recipe caramelizes raw almonds in a buttery sugar glaze, creating a deliciously addictive snack.
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons water
- 3 cups raw, unsalted almonds
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat, combine the sugar and water. Stir constantly until the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Step 2: Add the almonds and keep stirring constantly until the sugar caramelizes and turns a deep amber color, about 8 to 10 minutes.
- Step 3: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the butter and salt until the nuts are evenly coated.
- Step 4: Quickly transfer the nuts onto a parchment-lined surface. Separate them with forks or a spatula to prevent sticking. Let cool completely before serving or storing.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of vanilla extract when stirring in the butter.
- Use toasted almonds instead of raw for a nuttier taste.
- Make this recipe nut-free by substituting almonds with pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds.
Storage
Store praline almonds in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. To enjoy them at their best, keep them away from moisture. If they lose crunch, briefly warm them in a low oven before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use pre-roasted almonds for this recipe?
Yes, you can use pre-roasted almonds, but keep an eye on the cooking time as they may caramelize faster.
How do I prevent the sugar from crystallizing?
Stir the sugar and water constantly until fully dissolved and avoid stirring once the almonds are added to prevent crystallization. Using a heavy-bottomed pan also helps distribute heat evenly.
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Praline Almonds Recipe
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: About 3 cups 1x
Description
This Praline Almonds recipe features crunchy raw almonds coated in a rich, caramelized sugar glaze with a hint of buttery saltiness. Perfect as a snack, a salad topping, or a sweet gift, these praline almonds are quick to prepare on the stovetop and deliver a deep, toasty flavor with every bite.
Ingredients
Praline Coating
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Nuts
- 3 cups raw, unsalted almonds
Instructions
- Prepare the sugar syrup: In a large heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat, combine 1 cup granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons water. Stir constantly until the sugar is fully dissolved to create a clear syrup.
- Add almonds and caramelize: Add 3 cups of raw, unsalted almonds to the syrup. Continue cooking while stirring constantly, allowing the sugar to caramelize and turn a deep amber color, which will take about 8 to 10 minutes. This step coats the almonds evenly with the praline glaze.
- Incorporate butter and salt: Remove the skillet from heat and immediately stir in 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter and 1/2 teaspoon of salt to enrich the flavor and texture of the praline coating.
- Cool and separate almonds: Quickly transfer the coated almonds onto a parchment-lined surface. Use forks or a spatula to separate the nuts before the caramel hardens to prevent clumping. Allow them to cool completely.
- Storage and serving: Once cooled, store the praline almonds in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. They are perfect for snacking, as a crunchy topping for salads or desserts, or packaged as gifts.
Notes
- Use a heavy-bottomed skillet to ensure even heat distribution and prevent sugar from burning.
- Stir constantly during caramelization to avoid crystallization or scorching.
- Work quickly when transferring and separating nuts as the caramel hardens fast.
- For a different flavor profile, experiment with adding cinnamon or vanilla extract after removing from heat.
- Ensure almonds are completely dry before cooking to avoid unwanted syrup splattering.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: praline almonds, caramelized almonds, candied nuts, sweet snack, homemade pralines
