Indulge your sweet tooth with these irresistible Panocha Walnuts, a delightful treat that combines the earthy richness of toasted walnuts with the deep caramelized sweetness of panocha (Mexican brown sugar). Elevated by a pinch of ground cinnamon, pure vanilla extract, and a touch of butter, these walnuts are coated in a luscious, glossy caramel syrup that hardens to perfection. Ready in just 20 minutes, this quick and easy recipe will transform simple pantry ingredients into a snack that's perfect for gifting, entertaining, or simply satisfying your cravings. Serve these aromatic, sweetly spiced candied walnuts on their own, sprinkle them over salads, or use them to top desserts for a delectable finishing touch. With their irresistible crunch and rich flavor, Panocha Walnuts are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
Preheat a large, non-stick skillet or heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat.
Toast the walnuts in the skillet for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until they begin to release their natural oils and develop a slightly golden color. Remove from heat and set aside.
In the same skillet, combine the panocha (brown sugar) and water. Stir continuously over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture begins to bubble.
Add the butter, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt to the sugar mixture. Stir well to combine.
Continue cooking the syrup, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and add the toasted walnuts to the syrup. Stir thoroughly to ensure all the walnuts are evenly coated in the panocha mixture.
Spread the coated walnuts onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they are in a single layer and not clumped together.
Allow the walnuts to cool completely at room temperature. As they cool, the syrup will harden into a glossy coating.
Once cooled, break apart any clusters of walnuts if necessary. Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Calories |
2688 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 180.5 g | 231% | |
| Saturated Fat | 28.7 g | 144% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 113.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 62 mg | 21% | |
| Sodium | 669 mg | 29% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 266.4 g | 97% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 16.8 g | 60% | |
| Total Sugars | 236.4 g | ||
| Protein | 36.7 g | 73% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 463 mg | 36% | |
| Iron | 11.6 mg | 64% | |
| Potassium | 1394 mg | 30% | |
*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.