Candied Peanuts

Candied Peanut Recipe: Sweetness and Crunch at Home

The candied peanuts are an irresistible classic that combines the natural flavor of peanuts with a sweet and crunchy coating of caramelized sugar. They are ideal for brightening family gatherings or as a snack at any time. This recipe is simple, with few ingredients and clear steps so that anyone can make them at home.

Preparation time

Below, I share the precise times to prepare these candied peanuts, thinking that you want to plan your cooking without complications.

• Preparation: 5 minutes
• Cooking: 17 minutes
• Total: 22 minutes
• Servings: 2
• Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

To prepare some delicious candied peanuts you need:

• 2 cups of peanuts in shell
• 1/2 cup of water
• 1 1/4 cups of sugar
• Red food coloring (optional)
• A pinch of salt

If you can't find peanuts in their shell, you can use shelled peanuts, but the process will be a bit more delicate to prevent them from sticking too much.

Utensils we will use

• Large, deep pan
• Spoon or spatula for stirring
• Large mold or extended plate
• Wax paper or equivalent to cover the mold
• Container for measuring ingredients

Preparation

1. Prepare the sugar and water mixture

1. Basic mixture: Place in the pan the 1/2 cup of water along with the 1 1/4 cup of sugar and the pinch of salt. If you decide to use food coloring, add 5 drops at this moment for a vibrant red tone, very characteristic of candied peanuts.
2. Heat over medium-high heat: Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar well. Prevent it from sticking to the bottom, stir with a spoon or spatula.

2. Add the peanuts and cook

1. Incorporate the peanuts with shell: When the mixture is boiling, add the 2 cups of peanuts. It is essential to stir constantly to prevent them from burning or sticking together.
2. Observe the sandy texture: Cook the mixture, stirring for approximately 8 to 9 minutes until the liquid reduces and the mixture has a sandy texture. The bubbles become larger and take longer to break, a sign that it is ready for the next step.

3. Caramelize and cool

1. Reduce the heat: Reduce the heat intensity to a minimum and continue stirring until the sugar begins to melt and a harder coating forms around the peanuts, approximately 8 more minutes.
2. Form and cool: Quickly pour the mixture into a mold covered with wax paper. Spread the peanuts so they don't stick together and let cool at room temperature until completely hardened.

To finish and serve

When the peanuts are firm and cold, carefully separate the clumps to have individual crunchy pieces. You can serve them directly on a plate or in small portions using candy dishes or decorative bags. They are perfect to accompany coffee or to enjoy as a snack at any time of the day.

I want to share these tips with you

• Use fresh peanuts: Preferably freshly bought, as old peanuts can lose their crunchy texture and flavor.
• Constant stirring: It is key to prevent them from burning and for the sugar to distribute evenly.
• Control the heat: Do not let the caramel darken too much, as it would make the preparation bitter.
• Store airtight: To preserve crispness, store peanuts in sealed jars or bags; they last up to 6 months.
• Vary the flavor: You can add cinnamon powder or a touch of chili powder for new versions.

Nutritional Information per serving

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Proteins: 12 g
• Fats: 22 g
• Carbohydrates: 27 g
• Fiber: 3 g

These values are approximate estimates per serving and may vary depending on the quantity and brand of ingredients used.

5 keys to make it perfect

• Peanut quality: It is essential to use good quality and fresh peanuts to achieve the best flavor and texture.
• Optional food coloring: If you don't have it, it can be omitted, but it provides the traditional appearance of red candied peanuts.
• Stir constantly: Constant stirring to prevent sticking and burning of the sugar.
• Controlled temperature: Medium-high heat at the beginning, then low to avoid bitterness.
• Spread well: Place in the mold quickly to prevent it from sticking together.

When is it ideal to enjoy it?

Candied peanuts are perfect for sharing at family gatherings, as a snack at parties, or simply to accompany an afternoon coffee or movie. Their sweet flavor and crunchy texture make them a wonderful option for any time, especially at celebrations like fairs or holidays where that artisanal and traditional touch is highly valued.

Comparative table of recipes similar to candied peanuts

Recommendations for choosing the best peanuts and brands

When selecting your peanut for candying, consider recognized brands such as Los Cacahuates Lupita, El Manisero, or Don Pepe, which offer quality and freshness. Also at fairs you can find artisanal peanuts in the style of La Sevillana o La Colina which offer authentic flavors. In supermarkets, Carmelita Peanuts is a popular option. In Mexico, the Pipoc are often used for recipes with butter, varying the final texture.

If you are looking for dye-free options, some brands of Nuts & Nuts offer natural products ideal for those who prefer to avoid additives.

Exquisite pairings for candied peanuts

• Café de olla: Its sweet profile makes a magnificent pairing to highlight the flavors of spiced coffee.
• Sparkling wine: The bubbly freshness complements the crunchy texture of the candied nuts.
• Fresh cheese: A simple snack that allows contrasting sweet with savory.
• Fresh fruits: Sliced apple or pear can create a balanced flavor board.

These pairings enhance the traditional experience and vary the enjoyment depending on the moment.

Simple variations to innovate at home

• With cinnamon: Add half a teaspoon of ground cinnamon along with the sugar for a warm and aromatic flavor.
• With chili: Incorporate chili powder at the end of caramelization for a very Mexican spicy touch.
• Without coloring: Only water and sugar for a more natural look while maintaining the flavor.
• With vanilla: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract at the end for a special sweet aroma.

Ideas for reusing candied peanuts

• As a topping: For ice cream or yogurt, add pieces of candied peanuts to provide texture and sweetness.
• In salads: Mix with spinach, goat cheese, and cranberries for a contrast of flavors.
• In baked desserts: Crush and sprinkle on cakes or cookies for a crunchy and sweet touch.
• As a gift: Package in small bags with ribbon to give as gifts at meetings or events.

Candied Peanuts

Candied Peanuts: step-by-step recipe crunchy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Ideal for sharing. Serve immediately and adjust spiciness and salt to your taste.

Type: Recipe

Cuisine: Mexican

Keywords: peanuts, candied, Mexican, desserts, recipe, easy, homemade

Recipe Yield: 4 servings

Calories: 500 kcal

Preparation Time: PT10M

Cooking Time: PT20M

Total Time: PT30M

Recipe Ingredients:

• Peanuts : Preferably raw, without salt or pesticides, to ensure a pure and natural flavor.
• Sugar : Refined white sugar is recommended, although some traditional recipes use optional sugar to intensify the caramel.
• Water : Essential for the creation of the syrup that will coat the peanuts during the caramelization process.
• Salt : Just a pinch to enhance the sweet flavor and balance the crispy texture.

Recipe Instructions:

Peanuts :

Peanuts : Preferably raw, without salt or pesticides, to ensure a pure and natural flavor.

Sugar :

Sugar : Refined white sugar is recommended, although some traditional recipes use optional sugar to intensify the caramel.

Water :

Water : Essential for the creation of the syrup that will coat the peanuts during the caramelization process.

Salt :

Salt : Just a pinch to enhance the sweet flavor and balance the crispy texture.

Prepare the ingredients :

Prepare the ingredients: Gather all ingredients in a clean workstation and measure in precise quantities to ensure the quality of the result.

Cook the peanuts :

Cook the peanuts : In a large skillet, place the peanuts and heat over medium heat, allowing them to toast lightly if you wish to deepen their flavor.

Form the caramel syrup :

Form the caramel syrup : Add the appropriate amount of sugar and water to the peanuts in the pan, stirring constantly to prevent the sugar from burning. The key here is to keep the mixture moving to achieve a uniform finish.

Caramelization and coating :

Caramelization and seasoning : When the sugar transforms into a golden and thick syrup, incorporate the pinch of salt aiming to enhance the final flavor. Continue stirring for a few more minutes until the mixture completely covers the peanuts.

Cooling and storage :

Cooling and storage : Remove the candied peanuts from the heat and spread them on a tray with wax paper so they cool and acquire their crunchy texture. Store in an airtight container to maintain their perfect crunchiness.

Watch the sugar :

Watch the sugar : Caramel can burn quickly if you don't stir constantly, altering the flavor and texture.

Use appropriate utensils :

Use appropriate utensils : Preferably a silicone or wooden spatula for better control of the process without damaging the ingredients.

Controlled temperature:

Controlled temperature : Keep the heat at a medium level to prevent the sugar from turning into a dark liquid or burning.

Editor's Rating:
4.7