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Home » Recipes » Snacks » Candied Walnuts

Candied Walnuts

Published: Dec 10, 2019 · Updated: Dec 10, 2019 by Natalie · This post may contain affiliate links · 51 Comments

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Nutty, sweet, and incredibly crunchy, these Candied Walnuts are perfect for snacking, holiday gift-giving, or topped on desserts. A hint of blackstrap molasses and cinnamon gives the walnuts just the right amount of sweetness and flavor, making them delicious and addictive!

Healthier Candied Walnuts coated with blackstrap molasses and cinnamon

Jump to
    • Candied Walnuts ingredients
    • How to make Candied Walnuts
      • How to use Candied Walnuts
      • Tips for storing
    • Candied Walnuts recipe
      • Ingredients
      • Instructions
      • Notes
      • Nutrition
    • More healthy holiday snack recipes

There is something about walnuts and Christmas. I don't know — some secret connection. They have this really interesting really intense flavor and nuttiness that is both warming and so welcoming — just like Christmas. In my record book, they are absolutely perfect for making sweet holiday treats.

But walnuts are not only a delicious addition to seasonal baking. They are highly nutritious healthy snack option too. Served on its own, in a trail mix or spiced and candied. All delicious and just irresistible.

Since my husband is nuts about candied nuts and greatest nibbler out there, he already ordered Spicy Cinnamon Roasted Almonds for Christmas. But these Candied Walnuts are also high on his snack list. Crunchy, nutty, with just the right amount of sweetness and flavor from seasonal spices, these candy-coated walnuts are the truly addictive snack. And since they are made using a healthier sugar alternative, meaning they are totally guilt-free, we will enjoy them all season long. 

Candied Walnuts coated with blackstrap molasses and cinnamon

Candied Walnuts ingredients

People usually buy candied nuts in stores. But the great thing about this Candied Walnut recipe is that it is so easy to make at home with just a few simple ingredients. You probably have all these ingredients in your home already. All you need to make this delicious treat is: 

  • WALNUTS: Walnuts are nutty, crunchy, and incredibly flavorful. But also very healthy and full of nutrients. They are a good source of the plant-based omega-3, an essential fatty acid, and an excellent source of antioxidants that fights inflammation. (1) Walnuts are great for gut health, and since they are calorie-dense, they are great for weight loss too. When roasted, walnuts flavor and nuttiness intensify, making them so sooo delicious. 
  • BLACKSTRAP MOLASSES: Blackstrap molasses is a byproduct of the sugar's cane sugar-making process. It is a dark, somewhat bitter tasting with a subtle sweetness. But the most wonderful thing about blackstrap molasses is that unlike refined sugar, which has zero nutritional value, it contains many essential vitamins and minerals – like iron, calcium, magnesium, vitamin B6 and selenium (2). That makes blackstrap molasses a great addition to a healthy diet. And because of its distinctive taste, a great addition to holiday sweet treats. 
  • CEYLON CINNAMON: Ceylon cinnamon, or "true" cinnamon, is a highly flavorful and delicious spice, and an essential ingredient in making holiday treats. But cinnamon is not just a tasty addition to baking and making sweets. Cinnamon is loaded with powerful antioxidants with anti-inflammatory properties. (3, 4) It reduces levels of total cholesterol, "bad" LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides, while "good" HDL cholesterol remains stable. (5) Cinnamon is well known for its blood-sugar-lowering properties too. A powerful spice, indeed. Cinnamon enhanced the taste of roasted walnuts with a gorgeous aroma.
  • SWEETENER: No Candied Walnuts are complete without sugar, but I’ve drastically reduced the amount of sugar in this recipe AND I’m not using white sugar either. To make these Candied Walnuts somewhat healthier, I used COCONUT SUGAR. Coconut sugar is less refined sugar with subtle sweetness and fewer calories. It also has this hint of caramel flavor that I so lovely. 

Other pantry ingredients you'll need:

  • Salt
  • Coconut oil

Healthier Candied Walnuts coated with blackstrap molasses and cinnamon

How to make Candied Walnuts

  1. Preheat the oven to 350F (180C). Line big baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Prepare and measure all ingredients using measuring cups.
  3. Spread 1 cup of walnuts evenly over a parchment paper. Put the walnuts in the oven and roast for 15 minutes. Stir halfway through the roasting time. NOTE: Watch for walnuts not to burn. When they become fragrant and smell roasted, they are done.
  4. In the meantime, in a small bowl, mix together 3 tablespoons coconut sugar and 1/2 teaspoon Ceylon cinnamon. Set aside.
  5. Take the walnuts out off the oven. 
  6. In a large, nonstick skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon coconut oil. Add 1 tablespoon blackstrap molasses. Stir until it starts boiling and becomes smooth.
  7. Add in roasted walnuts and turn of the heath. Stir for a minute until walnuts are thoroughly coated.
  8. Add in coconut sugar mixture. Quickly stir walnuts, until they are fully coated with the mixture.
  9. Place coated walnuts back onto the baking sheet. Spread them so that they are in one single layer. Use a fork or spoon to separate the walnuts from each other. Sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
  10. Allow to cool completely before serving and storing. The candy coating will harden as the walnuts cool.

Healthier Candied Walnuts recipe using blackstrap molasses and cinnamon

How to use Candied Walnuts

Here are a few ideas about how to enjoy this delicious treat: 

  • As a SNACK! - Grab a handful and enjoy it. 
  • Add them to a cheeseboard and impress your guests! 
  • Toss them on Salad! - A fruit salad or a regular one, Candied Walnuts will add crunch and nutrients.
  • Use in baking! - Toss them in your favorite cookie or brownie. 
  • Top over oatmeal, yogurt, or ice cream!  
  • Pack as a GIFT! - Place Candied Walnuts in a cute glass jar, wrap it with a ribbon and give as a gift during the holidays. 

Tips for storing

  • Keep Candied Walnuts in a glass candy jar, an airtight glass container, or food container. They will last up to 2 weeks. 
  • Place them in a zip-lock bag and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw them on room temperature before serving. 

Healthier Candied Walnuts recipe using blackstrap molasses and cinnamon

Candied Walnuts are, in one word, delicious. Lightly sweet, crunchy, and nutty beyond imagining. Flavors are amazing -- bitter dark molasses and caramel from coconut sugar blended with aromatic cinnamon. It smells and tastes just like Christmas. Like some luxurious sweet treat. But yet it's easy-to-make and much healthier than the store-bought stuff.

Enjoy!

Healthier Candied Walnuts recipe using blackstrap molasses and cinnamon
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5 from 28 votes

Candied Walnuts recipe

Nutty, sweet, and incredibly crunchy, these Candied Walnuts are perfect for snacking, holiday gift-giving, or topped on salads and desserts. A hint of blackstrap molasses and cinnamon gives the walnuts just the right amount of sweetness and flavor, making them delicious and addictive!
Course Snack
Cuisine American, British, International
Keyword candied nuts, candied walnuts, candied walnuts recipe, healthy candied walnuts
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 8 servings
Calories 134kcal
Author Natalie

Ingredients

  • 1 cup walnuts
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin coconut oil
  • 1 tablespoon Blackstrap molasses
  • 3 tablespoon coconut sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon Ceylon cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350F (180C). Line big baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Prepare and measure all ingredients using measuring cups.
  • Spread 1 cup of walnuts evenly over a parchment paper. Put the walnuts in the oven and roast for 15 minutes. Stir halfway through the roasting time. NOTE: Watch for walnuts not to burn. When they become fragrant and smell roasted, they are done.
  • In the meantime, in a small bowl, mix together 3 tablespoons coconut sugar and 1/2 teaspoon Ceylon cinnamon. Set aside.
  • Take the walnuts out off the oven.
  • In a large, nonstick skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon coconut oil. Add 1 tablespoon blackstrap molasses. Stir until it starts boiling and becomes smooth.
  • Add in roasted walnuts and turn of the heath. Stir for a minute until walnuts are thoroughly coated.
  • Add in coconut sugar mixture. Quickly stir walnuts, until they are fully coated with the mixture.
  • Place coated walnuts back onto the baking sheet. Spread them so that they are in one single layer. Use a fork or spoon to separate the walnuts from each other. Sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
  • Allow to cool completely before serving and storing. The candy coating will harden as the walnuts cool.

Notes

STORING: Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
As a measure, I used US cup (240ml).
Disclaimer: The nutritional information provided is approximate and is calculated using online tools. Information can vary depending on various factors, but I have endeavored to be as accurate as possible.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving (a handful) | Calories: 134kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Sodium: 10mg | Potassium: 101mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 19mg | Iron: 1mg

More healthy holiday snack recipes

  • Toasted Cinnamon Coconut Chips
  • Spicy Cinnamon Roasted Almonds
  • No Bake Brownie Bites
  • Gingerbread Energy Balls
  • Hazelnut Chocolate Balls

If you’ve tried this Candied Walnut recipe or any other recipe on Natalie’s Health, please take a minute to rate the recipe and leave a comment letting me know how you liked it. I love hearing from you!

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Sweet and incredibly crunchy, these Candied Walnuts are perfect for snacking. Coated in blackstrap molasses with a hint of cinnamon, these walnuts are delicious and addictive!

Sweet and incredibly crunchy, these Candied Walnuts are perfect for snacking. Coated in blackstrap molasses with a hint of cinnamon, these walnuts are delicious and addictive!

 
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About Natalie

Natalie is health & wellness coach, with expertise in weight-loss, weight management, digestive health, mental wellbeing. She's passionate about helping others to live healthier and fulfilled lives. Natalie hopes to empower people to take charge of their well-being. She actively coach and writes about healthy lifestyle. Her articles have been featured in Shape, Men’s Fitness, Greatist, Pure Wow, Mashed, The Huffington Post, ELLE Magazine and more.

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Marysa says

    April 25, 2020 at 2:54 am

    I love walnuts, and this sounds awesome! I have had other candied nuts at places like fairs, and it would be fun to make my own.

    Reply
  2. natalie says

    December 17, 2019 at 8:48 pm

    WE have lots of guests around at Christmas and this is such a good idea to have on the coffee table so everyone can help themselves!

    Reply
  3. Candice says

    December 16, 2019 at 1:25 am

    5 stars
    These are such a delicious addition to my holiday treats. I love keeping them around the house, and even packing them in cute little bags as treats for the neighbors. I would never have thought to use coconut sugar, and it was such a great idea!

    Reply
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I'm Natalie, health & wellness coach with passion for making healthy food taste delicious and helping others discover the life-changing power of real food. On my blog, you'll find HEALTHY RECIPES using real ingredients + healthy living and weight loss tips to help you be healthiest happiest you. More about me!

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