Introduction to Salted Caramel Candied Walnuts with Rosemary
As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to whipping up something delicious. That’s why I absolutely adore these Salted Caramel Candied Walnuts with Rosemary. They’re the perfect blend of sweet and savory, making them a delightful snack or a stunning topping for your favorite desserts. Whether you need a quick treat for movie night or a unique gift for a friend, this recipe is a lifesaver. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll find yourself making them again and again!
PrintSalted Caramel Candied Walnuts with Rosemary You’ll Love!
Deliciously sweet and salty walnuts coated in caramel and infused with rosemary, perfect for snacking or as a topping.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 cups
- Category: Snack
- Method: Stovetop and Oven
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups walnuts
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread the walnuts on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 10 minutes.
- In a saucepan, combine sugar, butter, and water over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and let it cook without stirring until it turns a golden caramel color.
- Remove from heat and stir in the sea salt and chopped rosemary.
- Add the toasted walnuts to the caramel mixture and stir to coat evenly.
- Spread the caramel-coated walnuts back onto the baking sheet and let them cool completely.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
- Adjust the amount of rosemary to taste.
- These walnuts make a great gift when packaged nicely.
Why You’ll Love This Salted Caramel Candied Walnuts with Rosemary
These Salted Caramel Candied Walnuts with Rosemary are a game-changer for busy days. They come together in just 25 minutes, making them a quick and easy treat. The combination of sweet caramel and fragrant rosemary creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. Plus, they’re versatile! Use them as a snack, a topping, or even a thoughtful gift. You’ll love how they elevate any occasion!
Ingredients for Salted Caramel Candied Walnuts with Rosemary
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Salted Caramel Candied Walnuts with Rosemary. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Walnuts: These are the star of the show! Their rich, nutty flavor pairs perfectly with the sweetness of caramel.
- Granulated Sugar: This is what transforms into that luscious caramel. It’s essential for achieving that sweet, sticky coating.
- Unsalted Butter: Adds a creamy richness to the caramel. Using unsalted allows you to control the saltiness.
- Water: Helps dissolve the sugar and creates the right consistency for the caramel.
- Sea Salt: A sprinkle of this elevates the flavors, balancing the sweetness beautifully.
- Fresh Rosemary: This herb adds a unique, aromatic twist. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your taste preference.
For those looking to mix things up, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon for warmth or a splash of vanilla extract for extra depth. You can find all the exact measurements at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Salted Caramel Candied Walnuts with Rosemary
Making these Salted Caramel Candied Walnuts with Rosemary is a delightful adventure! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a sweet and savory treat in no time.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures that your walnuts toast evenly. A hot oven helps to bring out their natural oils, enhancing their flavor. Trust me, you want those walnuts to be perfectly toasted!
Step 2: Toast the Walnuts
Next, spread the walnuts on a baking sheet in a single layer. Toast them in the oven for about 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You want them golden brown, not burnt. Toasting intensifies their nutty flavor and adds a delightful crunch. It’s like giving your walnuts a warm hug!
Step 3: Prepare the Caramel
While the walnuts are toasting, it’s time to make the caramel. In a saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, unsalted butter, and water over medium heat. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves. Then, let it boil without stirring until it turns a beautiful golden color. This is where the magic happens! The right color means the caramel will have that rich, deep flavor.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Once your caramel is ready, remove it from the heat and stir in the sea salt and chopped rosemary. Then, add the toasted walnuts to the caramel mixture. Make sure to stir well, coating each walnut evenly. This step is key! An even coating ensures every bite is a perfect blend of sweet, salty, and aromatic goodness.
Step 5: Cool the Walnuts
Finally, spread the caramel-coated walnuts back onto the baking sheet. Let them cool completely. This cooling process is essential as it allows the caramel to harden, giving your walnuts that satisfying crunch. Once cooled, they’re ready to be enjoyed or stored for later!
Tips for Success
- Keep a close eye on the caramel as it cooks; it can go from perfect to burnt quickly.
- Use a non-stick saucepan for easier cleanup and to prevent the caramel from sticking.
- Let the walnuts cool completely before storing to maintain their crunch.
- Experiment with different nuts like pecans or almonds for a fun twist.
- Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to two weeks.
Equipment Needed
- Baking Sheet: A standard baking sheet works well, but a silicone mat can help prevent sticking.
- Non-Stick Saucepan: This is ideal for making caramel, but any saucepan will do.
- Spatula: A heat-resistant spatula is perfect for stirring the caramel.
- Oven Mitts: Don’t forget these to protect your hands when handling hot pans!
Variations of Salted Caramel Candied Walnuts with Rosemary
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the caramel for a sweet and spicy flavor combination.
- Maple Twist: Substitute half of the granulated sugar with maple syrup for a unique, earthy sweetness.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the walnuts for an indulgent treat.
- Nut-Free Option: Use pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds instead of walnuts for a nut-free alternative.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with other herbs like thyme or sage for a different aromatic profile.
Serving Suggestions for Salted Caramel Candied Walnuts with Rosemary
- Serve these walnuts as a delightful topping on vanilla ice cream for a sweet treat.
- Pair them with a cheese platter for a sweet and savory contrast.
- Enjoy with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack.
- Package them in a decorative jar for a thoughtful homemade gift.
FAQs about Salted Caramel Candied Walnuts with Rosemary
Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts? Absolutely! While walnuts are the star of this recipe, you can easily substitute them with pecans, almonds, or even hazelnuts. Each nut brings its own unique flavor and texture.
How do I store my Salted Caramel Candied Walnuts with Rosemary? Store your delicious walnuts in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and crunchy for up to two weeks. Just make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing them up!
Can I make these walnuts ahead of time? Yes! These salted caramel candied walnuts are perfect for meal prep. You can make them a few days in advance, and they’ll still taste amazing. Just keep them stored properly to maintain their crunch.
What can I do if my caramel hardens too quickly? If your caramel hardens before you can coat the walnuts, simply return it to low heat. Stir gently until it melts again, and then mix in your walnuts. It’s a quick fix that saves your sweet treat!
Are these walnuts suitable for gifting? Definitely! These Salted Caramel Candied Walnuts with Rosemary make a thoughtful and delicious gift. Just package them in a pretty jar or box, and you’ll have a delightful present for friends or family.
Final Thoughts
Creating these Salted Caramel Candied Walnuts with Rosemary is more than just a cooking task; it’s a joyful experience that fills your kitchen with warmth and delightful aromas. Each bite offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory, making them a treat for any occasion. Whether you’re snacking on them during a busy day or sharing them with loved ones, these walnuts bring smiles and satisfaction. Plus, they’re so easy to make! I hope you find as much joy in making and sharing these as I do. Happy cooking, and enjoy every crunchy, caramel-coated bite!

