This old-fashioned sugared nuts recipe isn’t the candied nuts recipe you’re probably used to, but let me just tell you, it’s even better! It’s the classic way of making nuts and they are a little bit to die for!!
It’s been 5 years since we got married! The whole wedding planning and shenanigans is something I hope to never do again, but to say they weren’t all wonderful would be a big fat lie.
And one of my favorite parts of the incredible French Bridal Shower my sister threw were the recipe cards she included in the invitations. Whether or not my family and friends could celebrate with us, they could send their favorite recipe.
I absolutely loved the concept and started salivating immediately with all the recipes I now have in my repertoire – creamy cauliflower to anise cookies to Texas caviar. This recipe for sugared nuts is the one from my mom…
Sugared Nuts
The recipe was actually one from my dear aunt who passed away a few years ago. She used to make sugared nuts during the holidays. In my mom’s search for the recipe, she discovered that it was actually my grandma’s recipe, which makes it all the more special to us.
I think that it also means these are a guilt-free treat since there’s so much sentimental meaning behind each bite. Wishful thinking, I know.
Walnuts vs. Mixed Nuts
I did make one major change to the recipe. I chose a mix of nuts instead of just walnuts (the traditional nut in sugared nuts). The peanuts are delectable in here and, of course, the pecans are delicious.
You can use whatever unsalted, raw nuts you like or have on hand. I have to warn you that the variety of nuts makes “seconds” all the more likely.
Speaking of sharing. This recipe for sugared nuts makes quite a bit, so it’s a perfect homemade gift to share with everyone you know this holiday season!
Sugared Nuts w. Sour Cream
Ok. So the secret ingredient is sour cream! It’s what makes these different form the crunchy, candied nuts that are so common these days.
It’s also what makes them so much better! There’s a creamy-ish, cinnamon-y sugar coating on each of these nuts. It’s the perfect combination of flavor, sweetness, and consistency!
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OLD-FASHIONED SUGARED NUTS
Ingredients
- 3 cups sugar
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 4 cups raw, unsalted nuts (all the same or a mix)
Instructions
- Heat sugar, sour cream, and butter in saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly. Bring to violent boil. Remove from heat. Add vanilla and cinnamon. Mix in thoroughly.
- Add nuts, mixing thoroughly to cover every nut.
- Spread nuts on waxed paper to cool. Let sit at least forty five minutes before breaking apart.
David says
I wouldn’t have guessed this recipe had sour cream! I love the delicious combo of savory nuts with some sweetness.
kerri says
these are far and away my husbands favorite snack ever. i can’t wait to make them for him!
Tara says
Happy Anniversary! Such a wonderful recipe to pair with those memories. They look incredible and definitely the perfect addition to the holidays.
Cathleen says
Okay, I love this idea. And I also love the story behind it!! Will definitely give this a go this holiday season 🙂
cyndy says
I love sugared nuts of all kinds and I have never heard of using sour cream but I can’t wait to try this recipe! And the fact that there is a sweet legacy story behind the recipe makes it all the sweeter!
Dionne says
I have never tried any nut recipes before, so this one will be the first one for me. I am really excited – it sounds so easy to follow!
Kylie says
Oh my goodness Luci these should come with a warning because they are so delicious!
Cathleen says
Okay, I am definitely making this for gifts for neighbours. Thank you so much for this recipe, bookmarked for the holidays 🙂
Andrea Metlika says
These are a perfect holiday snack. Will be great for gift giving too!
veenaazmanov says
I want to stock my snack box with such an amazing sweet tooth option. Delicious and yet so simple to make. Thanks.
Tawnie Kroll says
Made these for a holiday gift and they were loved by all! Thank you!
Theresa says
The taste is delicious but after a couple days my nuts were soft – I used cashews and made a lot so it was disappointing
Luci Petlack says
Hi Theresa! I’m so sorry to hear they softened so quickly. I didn’t have this problem when I made them, but I used the above combination, so it just may not have been as noticeable. Are you storing them in an airtight container? Additionally, I haven’t tried refrigerating or freezing these sugared nuts after making them (I will give that a try this year when I make them), but that might help with keeping them tasting and fresh for longer.
I’m also wondering if you have a high humidity where you live or even where the nuts are stored (maybe near the stove with a lot of steam?). It’s amazing what little things like this can do to food consistency and quality.
I apologize I’m not of more help. I tried to find tricks to help with softened cashews, but every method would ruin the delicious, sugary coating. Please let me know if you try any of the above methods.