Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups walnuts
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Special equipment needed:
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Spread walnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly toasted.
4. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, water, and salt over medium heat.
5. Stir until sugar is dissolved.
6. Increase heat to high and bring to a boil.
7. Cook without stirring until mixture turns golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
8. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
9. Add toasted walnuts to the caramel mixture and stir to coat.
10. Using a spoon, drop clusters of caramelized walnuts onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
11. Allow to cool completely.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Temperature:
Oven temperature: 350°F
Serving size:
This recipe makes 12-15 clusters.
Nutritional information:
Calories: 180
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 3g
Sodium: 50mg
Sugar: 11g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Pecans or almonds can be substituted for walnuts.
- Brown sugar can be used instead of granulated sugar.
Variations:
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the caramel mixture for added flavor.
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the clusters for a decadent treat.
Tips and tricks:
- Be careful when working with hot sugar, as it can cause serious burns.
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure the caramel reaches the correct temperature.
- Store clusters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Storage instructions:
Store clusters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Reheating instructions:
Clusters can be reheated in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
Presentation ideas:
Serve clusters on a decorative platter or in a clear glass jar.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle clusters with sea salt or chopped nuts for added texture.
Pairings:
Serve clusters with a glass of red wine or a cup of coffee.
Suggested side dishes:
These clusters make a great addition to a cheese board or charcuterie platter.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the caramel mixture becomes too thick, add a tablespoon of water to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
Be careful when working with hot sugar, as it can cause serious burns.
Food history:
Caramelized nuts have been enjoyed for centuries, with recipes dating back to ancient Rome.
Flavor profiles:
These clusters have a sweet and nutty flavor with a hint of vanilla.
Serving suggestions:
Serve clusters as a sweet snack or dessert.
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Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Crunchy, Caramelized