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
Scale
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
