Description
Candied Sugar Peanuts are a deliciously sweet and crunchy treat made by caramelizing sugar with roasted peanuts and a hint of vanilla. Perfect as a snack or topping, these candied peanuts are easy to prepare and provide a delightful balance of sweetness and nuttiness.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 2 cups unsalted roasted peanuts
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup water
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside to ensure the candied peanuts do not stick after cooking.
- Combine ingredients and bring to boil: In a large skillet, combine the unsalted roasted peanuts, granulated sugar, and water. Place over medium-high heat and stir constantly until the mixture begins to boil.
- Caramelize the sugar: Reduce heat to medium and continue stirring the mixture. Cook until the water evaporates and the sugar becomes gooey and caramelizes, coating the peanuts evenly.
- Finish cooking: Keep stirring and cooking until all the sugar mixture is caramelized and mostly sticks to the peanuts. Remove the skillet from heat promptly to avoid burning.
- Add vanilla extract: Immediately stir in the vanilla extract to infuse flavor into the caramel-coated peanuts.
- Cool and break apart: Spread the caramel-coated peanuts evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Allow them to cool completely, then break them into individual pieces for serving or storage.
- Store: Place the cooled, candied peanuts in an airtight container to preserve their freshness and crunch.
Notes
- Use unsalted roasted peanuts to control the salt level in the candy.
- Stir constantly during the caramelization process to prevent burning.
- Work quickly when adding vanilla and spreading the nuts, as the caramel hardens fast.
- Ensure peanuts are completely cooled before breaking apart to avoid sticky clumps.
- Store in a cool, dry place in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
