Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Sweet and Salty: The perfect mix of sugar and salt gives these peanuts a satisfying balance of flavors.
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Simple to Make: With just a few ingredients and a short cooking time, these sugared peanuts are quick and easy to prepare.
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Perfect for Gifting: Pack them in a cute jar or tin for a homemade gift that’s sure to be appreciated.
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Versatile: Enjoy them as a snack, top them on salads, or mix them into your favorite trail mix.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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1 1/2 cups raw peanuts (or roasted peanuts, unsalted)
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1/2 cup granulated sugar
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1/4 cup water
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra richness)
Directions
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Prepare the Peanuts: If you’re using raw peanuts, you can toast them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes until lightly golden, or use pre-roasted unsalted peanuts.
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Make the Sugar Syrup: In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the sugar and water over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves, and the mixture begins to bubble. Allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes.
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Add the Flavoring: Stir in the vanilla extract and salt (and butter, if using) into the sugar syrup. Let it cook for another 1-2 minutes until the syrup thickens slightly.
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Coat the Peanuts: Add the peanuts to the saucepan and stir to coat them evenly with the syrup. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the syrup crystallizes and coats the peanuts in a sugary glaze.
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Cool and Serve: Spread the sugared peanuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to cool completely. Once cooled, they will have a crispy, sugary coating. Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4-6
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Preparation Time: 5 minutes
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Cooking Time: 10 minutes
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Total Time: 15 minutes
Variations
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Add Spice: For a spicier kick, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon, cayenne pepper, or chili powder into the syrup.
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Coconut Sugared Peanuts: Add 1/4 cup of shredded coconut to the peanuts for a tropical twist.
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Sweet and Savory: Add a dash of smoked paprika or garlic powder for a savory contrast to the sweetness.
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Maple Sugared Peanuts: Substitute the granulated sugar with maple syrup for a maple-flavored treat.
Storage
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Storage: Store sugared peanuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. They should stay crunchy and fresh.
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Freezing: These peanuts freeze well for up to 2 months. Just store them in a freezer-safe container and thaw them at room temperature before serving.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts?
Yes, you can substitute the peanuts with other nuts like almonds, cashews, or walnuts for a different flavor and texture.
Can I use salted peanuts instead of unsalted?
You can, but keep in mind that salted peanuts will affect the overall flavor balance. If you use salted peanuts, you may want to reduce or omit the added salt in the syrup.
How do I prevent the sugar from burning?
Make sure to stir the syrup constantly while it cooks, and avoid using high heat. Let the sugar dissolve slowly, and keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Can I double or halve this recipe?
Yes, this recipe can easily be scaled up or down depending on your needs. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if you change the quantities.
Conclusion
Sugared Peanuts are an irresistible treat that combines the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch. They’re quick, easy, and can be customized to your taste. Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack, adding them to a party spread, or gifting them to friends and family, these sugared peanuts are sure to be a hit every time! Enjoy your sweet, crunchy snack!
Sugared Peanuts
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Healthy Snacks, Sugar-Free Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Sugared Peanuts are a delicious, sweet, and crunchy snack that’s perfect for any occasion. With a crispy sugar coating, a hint of vanilla, and just the right balance of sweet and salty, these peanuts are easy to make and highly addictive. Ideal for snacking, gifting, or adding to party mixes, this recipe is simple and quick with just a few ingredients.
Ingredients
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1 1/2 cups raw peanuts (or roasted, unsalted peanuts)
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1/2 cup granulated sugar
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1/4 cup water
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra richness)
Instructions
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Prepare the Peanuts:
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If using raw peanuts, toast them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes until lightly golden, or use pre-roasted unsalted peanuts.
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Make the Sugar Syrup:
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In a medium-sized saucepan, combine sugar and water over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to bubble. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
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Add the Flavoring:
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Stir in vanilla extract, salt, and butter (if using) into the sugar syrup. Let it cook for another 1-2 minutes until the syrup thickens slightly.
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Coat the Peanuts:
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Add the peanuts to the saucepan and stir to coat them evenly with the syrup. Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the syrup crystallizes and coats the peanuts with a sugary glaze.
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Cool and Serve:
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Spread the sugared peanuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to cool completely. Once cooled, they’ll have a crispy coating. Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
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Notes
Add Spice: Sprinkle cinnamon, cayenne pepper, or chili powder into the syrup for a spicy kick.Coconut Sugared Peanuts: Stir in 1/4 cup shredded coconut for a tropical twist.Sweet and Savory: Add smoked paprika or garlic powder for a savory-sweet combination.Maple Sugared Peanuts: Use maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a maple-flavored treat.
