Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup whole almonds
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
Special equipment needed:
- Large non-stick skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. In a large non-stick skillet, combine the sugar, water, cinnamon, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture starts to boil.
3. Add the almonds and stir until they are coated with the sugar mixture.
4. Continue cooking and stirring for about 5-7 minutes, until the sugar caramelizes and turns golden brown.
5. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
6. Transfer the almond mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and spread it out evenly.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, until the almonds are toasted and the sugar coating is crispy.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
9. Break the almond clusters into smaller pieces and serve.
- Time:
Preparation time: 5 minutes
- Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Temperature:
- Skillet: Medium heat
- Oven: 350°F
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 6g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 23g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use sliced almonds instead of whole almonds.
- You can substitute brown sugar for granulated sugar.
- You can use other spices such as nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom instead of cinnamon.
Variations:
- You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- You can use other nuts such as pecans, walnuts, or cashews instead of almonds.
- You can drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled almond clusters for a decadent treat.
Tips and tricks:
- Stir the almond mixture constantly to prevent burning.
- Use a non-stick skillet to avoid sticking.
- Let the almond clusters cool completely before breaking them into pieces.
Storage instructions:
- Store the almond clusters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Reheating instructions:
- You can reheat the almond clusters in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, until crispy.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the almond clusters in a bowl or on a platter.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or cinnamon.
Garnishes:
- Powdered sugar
- Cinnamon
Pairings:
- Hot cocoa
- Coffee
- Tea
Suggested side dishes:
- Fresh fruit
- Cheese plate
- Charcuterie board
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the sugar mixture crystallizes, add a tablespoon of water and stir until it dissolves.
Food safety advice:
- Be careful when working with hot sugar as it can cause burns.
- Let the almond clusters cool completely before storing.
Food history:
- Gebrannte Mandeln is a traditional German treat that is often sold at Christmas markets.
Flavor profiles:
- Sweet
- Nutty
- Cinnamon-spiced
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a snack or dessert.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
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Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
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Region: German
Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Crunchy, Caramelized