Nut-Free Candied Almonds
Craving the irresistible crunch of candied almonds but need a nut-free alternative? These Nut-Free Candied "Almonds" are a delightful twist, featuring sunflower seeds coated in a sweet and aromatic blend of sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon. With just six simple ingredients and 30 minutes of effort, this recipe transforms everyday seeds into a golden, caramelized treat that’s perfect for snacking, gifting, or topping desserts. The key here is the magical crystallization process, which gives the sunflower seeds their irresistible candy-like coating while keeping the recipe allergen-friendly and versatile. Whether you enjoy them straight from the jar or sprinkled over yogurt, these nut-free candied sunflower seeds offer all the flavor, crunch, and charm of the classic nutty treat—without the nuts! Perfect for a crowd or a quick treat, they’re an easy-to-make indulgence that everyone can enjoy.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups sunflower seeds (unsalted, shelled)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 0.25 cup water
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, water, cinnamon, and salt over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil without stirring. Allow it to boil for about 5 minutes until it starts to thicken slightly.
Reduce the heat to low and add the vanilla extract, stirring quickly.
Add the sunflower seeds to the saucepan and increase the heat back to medium.
Stir continuously to coat the seeds evenly as the syrup thickens and starts to crystallize around the seeds, which can take about 10-12 minutes.
Once the seeds are coated evenly and start to turn golden brown, remove the saucepan from the heat.
Quickly spread the candied seeds onto the prepared baking sheet, using a spatula to separate them as necessary.
Allow the candied sunflower seeds to cool completely at room temperature, then break apart any clusters.
Store the candied seeds in an airtight container to maintain their crunchiness and enjoy as a snack or topping.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2060 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 112.0 g | 144% | |
| Saturated Fat | 12.0 g | 60% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 298 mg | 13% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 250.6 g | 91% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 17.4 g | 62% | |
| Total Sugars | 208.6 g | ||
| Protein | 48.1 g | 96% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 190 mg | 15% | |
| Iron | 9.8 mg | 54% | |
| Potassium | 1220 mg | 26% | |
*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.
