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–+ servings

Candied Peanuts Recipe

Erin Rains
Before we delve into the delightful world of candied peanuts, let’s talk about a few mouthwatering pairings that truly elevate these sweet snacks. Imagine crunching on a handful of candied peanuts while sipping a cold glass of homemade lemonade. The zesty citrus cuts through the sweetness beautifully.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 398 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot, cooking sheet, wooden spoon

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup raw shelled peanuts.
  • ½ cup granulated cane sugar
  • ¼ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • Pinch of sea salt
  • Clean filtered water

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

  • Gather all your ingredients. Having everything ready saves time and ensures a smooth process. If you haven’t already done so, pre-measure your sugar and water, and have your peanuts on standby.

Step 2: Cook the Sugar

  • In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the sugar, sea salt, and water. Set this over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. Do not rush this; you want a clear liquid before moving on.

Step 3: Add Peanuts

  • Once the sugar has dissolved, add the raw peanuts to the saucepan. Stir continuously as the mixture starts to thicken. This ensures the peanuts get coated evenly.

Step 4: Caramelization

  • Keep stirring, and watch closely as the mixture begins to bubble. This process can take around 5-7 minutes, so don’t walk away. You’re looking for a light amber color.

Step 5: Remove from Heat

  • Once you achieve the desired color, remove the saucepan from heat. If you like, this is where you can add the vanilla extract. Mix well to incorporate it evenly.

Step 6: Coat the Peanuts

  • Pour the peanuts out onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread them into a single layer. This prevents clumping as they cool.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

  • Let the peanuts cool on the baking sheet. They will harden as they cool down. Once cooled, try not to devour the entire batch at once. Well, no promises, right?

Notes

  • Use Raw Peanuts: Always start with raw shelled peanuts for the best flavor.
  • Don’t Rush the Cooking: Allow the sugar to dissolve completely. Rushing leads to uneven coating.
  • Monitor Your Heat: Medium heat is ideal. Too high can burn the sugar.
  • Don’t Skip Cooling Time: Let them cool completely to ensure a crunchy finish.
  • Experiment with Flavors: Once you master the basic recipe, try adding spices or extracts for unique profiles.

Nutrition

Calories: 398kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 19gFat: 24.5gSaturated Fat: 4.1gSodium: 402mgFiber: 4gSugar: 13gCalcium: 3mgIron: 8mg
Keyword Candied Peanuts Recipe
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