Caramelized Sunflower Seeds
Crunchy, sweet, and utterly addictive, these Caramelized Sunflower Seeds are the ultimate snack or topping for salads, yogurt, or desserts. This easy recipe transforms simple raw sunflower seeds into a golden, glossy treat with just a handful of pantry staples like sugar, butter, and a touch of salt for balance. Toasted until nutty and enrobed in a light amber caramel, these seeds pack a delightful crunch and irresistible flavor in every bite. Ready in just 15 minutes, this quick and versatile recipe is perfect for entertaining or satisfying your sweet tooth on short notice. Plus, they store beautifully, making them an ideal make-ahead treat!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw sunflower seeds
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons water
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
Place a medium-sized skillet over medium heat and add the raw sunflower seeds.
Toast the sunflower seeds in the dry skillet for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until they start to turn golden and release a nutty aroma. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
In the same skillet, combine the granulated sugar and water. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves and the mixture starts bubbling.
Let the sugar mixture cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes, or until it turns a light amber color. Do not stir during this time to avoid crystallization.
Add the toasted sunflower seeds, salt, and butter to the caramel mixture. Stir quickly and thoroughly to coat the seeds evenly.
Lower the heat slightly and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously, until the seeds are well-coated and glossy.
Transfer the caramelized sunflower seeds to a parchment-lined baking sheet or silicone mat. Spread them out in a single layer using a spatula to prevent clumping.
Allow the seeds to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, break apart any large clusters if necessary.
Store the caramelized sunflower seeds in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
289 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 16.8 g | 22% | |
| Saturated Fat | 3.3 g | 16% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 8 mg | 3% | |
| Sodium | 143 mg | 6% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 31.1 g | 11% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.4 g | 8% | |
| Total Sugars | 25.4 g | ||
| Protein | 5.9 g | 12% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 21 mg | 2% | |
| Iron | 1.2 mg | 7% | |
| Potassium | 184 mg | 4% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
