If you’ve ever wondered how to make candied almonds or caramelized nuts, here’s the easiest way. This candied almonds recipe is perfect for adding elements for baking, dessert toppings or decorations, and snacking.
Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make with only three ingredients: water, sugar, and almonds. You may add some spices or bourbon for added layers of flavors, but that’s entirely up to you.

The Use of Candied Nuts for Baking
Candied nuts, especially candied almonds, are versatile baking ingredients. They add a sweet, nutty crunch to a variety of baked goods.
You can chop and sprinkle them on top of banana breads, muffins, or tarts for an extra layer of flavor and texture. They also make a delicious addition to cookies and brownies. Imagine biting into a soft chocolate brownie with a surprising crunch of sweet, caramelized almonds—pure bliss!

But there’s more to candied nuts. They are perfect for holiday baking, adding a festive touch to your creations.
Use them to mix into holiday bread or top off your fruit cakes. Their sweet and nutty flavor complements the warm, spiced flavors of the season.

Candied Nuts Variations
While this recipe focuses on how to make candied almonds on the stovetop, you can easily switch things up by using different nuts. The process remains the same.
- Stovetop Candied Pecans: Pecans are one of the best options. Their natural sweetness and buttery texture make them perfect for candying. Follow the same steps on the recipe, and enjoy these deliciously sweet and slightly smoky nuts.

- Candied Cashews: Cashews are known for their creamy texture and mild flavor, which pair wonderfully with the caramelized sugar coating. Candied cashews are a delightful snack or topping for desserts.
- Spice it up: For a flavorful twist, add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract or even cayenne pepper. Pink salt or fleur de sel also works well with caramelized nuts.
Feel free to experiment with other nuts, such as walnuts, hazelnuts, or even a mixed nut blend. Each nut brings its unique taste and texture to enjoy.

Substitution Table
Original Ingredients | Substitute With |
---|---|
Raw whole almonds | Raw whole cashews, pecans, hazelnut or peanuts |
Sugar | Honey or maple syrup |
Water | Water + 10 g of Fleur d’oranger (essence of orange blossom) |
Storing The Candied Nuts
Proper storage is key to keeping the candied nuts’nuts’ crunchiness and flavor. Once they’ve cooled completely, transfer them to an airtight container.
It will prevent moisture from making them sticky or soft. Store them at room temperature, and they’ll stay fresh for up to two weeks. Although they’re so delicious, they won’t last that long!
You may freeze candied nuts for longer storage, but only when using them for baking. They’ll last for several months this way, but it’s not recommended if you consume them for snacking.

3-Ingredient Candied Almonds Recipe
By Rommel@BakefreeEquipment
- silicon spatula or wooden spoon
- non-stick skillet or pan medium
Ingredients
- 200 ml water
- 200 g sugar
- 300 g raw almonds unpeeled
Instructions
- Combine the water and sugar in a medium, non-stick skillet or pan. Stir them together and place the skillet over medium heat. Let the sugar dissolve completely in the water, stirring occasionally. Add the raw almonds, then stir to coat them evenly with the sugar syrup.
- Continue to cook the almonds over medium heat, stirring continuously. The water will gradually evaporate, and the sugar will crystallize on the almonds. This process takes about 10-15 minutes.
- While stirring the crystalized almond and sugar, the sugar will melt and caramelize, coating the almonds in a shiny, golden-amber glaze. Be careful at this stage, as the sugar can burn quickly. Remove from the heat immediately.
- Spread the hot caramelized almonds on a parchment-lined baking sheet or silicon mat. Use a spatula to separate them as much as possible to prevent sticking. Cool completely before use or before storing them.