Slow Cooker Candied Nuts Recipe

Sweet & Crunchy Slow Cooker Candied Nuts Recipe for Snack Lovers

Have you ever craved a mouthwatering slow cooker candied nuts treat that fills your kitchen with irresistible warmth?

Sweet aromas will dance through every corner, promising a delightful snack that’s ridiculously simple to prepare.

Crunchy nuts coated in caramelized sugar create a magical sensation that beckons everyone nearby.

Minimal ingredients and zero fuss mean you can whip up this delectable snack in moments.

The magic happens while these nuts gently roast, developing a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch.

Imagine munching on these addictive treats during movie nights or gifting them in charming mason jars.

Let’s transform ordinary nuts into an extraordinary experience that’ll make taste buds celebrate.

Slow Cooker Candied Nuts: Why They’re Snackable

  • Select your favorite nuts like pecans, almonds, or walnuts and personalize the spice blend to match your taste preferences, creating a versatile and adaptable recipe.
  • Prepare a crowd-pleasing treat that appeals to both kids and adults, offering a healthier alternative to store-bought sugary snacks with homemade goodness.
  • Create a delightful homemade gift for gatherings, holidays, or as a thoughtful present that showcases your culinary skills without requiring advanced cooking techniques.

Ingredients Checklist for Slow Cooker Candied Nuts

Nuts:
  • Pecans, Almonds, Walnuts: The star ingredients that turn deliciously sweet and crunchy with the candied coating. Choose fresh, whole nuts without any rancid smell. Raw nuts work best for this recipe.
Sweeteners:
  • Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar: Create the classic sweet candied texture and deep caramel flavor. Light or dark brown sugar can be used based on preference.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Cinnamon, Ginger: Add warm, spicy undertones that complement the nuts' natural taste. Ground spices ensure smooth distribution throughout the coating.
Binding and Moisture Ingredients:
  • Melted Butter, Vanilla Extract: Help bind the sugar mixture and add rich, aromatic depth. Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor profile.
Additional Ingredients:
  • Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor complexity. A small pinch makes a significant difference.
Preparation Accessories:
  • Cooking Spray or Butter: Prevents nuts from sticking to the slow cooker. Ensures easy removal and clean-up after cooking.

Making Slow Cooker Candied Nuts with Ease

Step 1: Prepare Slow Cooker Surface

Lightly grease the interior of your slow cooker using butter or cooking spray. This prevents nuts from sticking and ensures smooth removal later. Set the slow cooker to low heat for gentle, even cooking.

Step 2: Create Sweet Coating Mixture

Whisk together ingredients for a delicious glaze:
  • Granulated sugar
  • Brown sugar
  • Cinnamon
  • Ginger (optional)
  • Salt

Add melted butter and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture transforms into a smooth, glossy syrup with rich caramel undertones.

Step 3: Enrobe Nuts in Sweet Glaze

Pour selected nuts into the slow cooker. Drizzle the syrupy mixture over nuts, gently stirring to guarantee each nut receives a complete, luxurious coating. Ensure every morsel is glistening with sweet goodness.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover slow cooker and cook on low heat for 2 hours. Stir every 30 minutes to distribute heat and glaze evenly. This process allows nuts to absorb the sugary mixture and develop a crispy, caramelized exterior.

Step 5: Cool and Separate Candied Treats

Remove lid and let nuts rest in slow cooker for 15 minutes. They will continue hardening during this time. Stir once more to break up any clumped clusters. Transfer nuts onto parchment paper or silicone mat to cool completely. Enjoy your homemade candied nuts!

Handy Tricks for Slow Cooker Candied Nuts

  • Prevent Sticky Mess: Grease your slow cooker generously to ensure nuts don't stick and cleanup becomes a breeze.
  • Customize Nut Selection: Experiment with almonds, pecans, walnuts, or a delightful mixed blend to suit your taste preferences.
  • Watch Stirring Intervals: Stir nuts every 30 minutes during cooking to guarantee even coating and prevent burning.
  • Control Sugar Levels: Adjust sugar quantities for a less sweet or more indulgent candied treat based on personal preference.
  • Master Cooling Technique: Spread nuts on parchment paper to cool completely, allowing them to develop a crisp, crunchy texture.

Stash and Warm Up Slow Cooker Candied Nuts

  • Store cooled candied nuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Keep them in a single layer to prevent sticking and maintain their crispy texture.
  • Pack nuts in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Seal tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving to preserve their crunchy coating.
  • Warm nuts briefly in a 250°F oven for 5-10 minutes to restore their original crispness. Spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer for even heating.
  • Keep nuts in a sealed container at room temperature for 5-7 days. Place a paper towel underneath to absorb any moisture and prevent clumping.

What Tastes Great with Slow Cooker Candied Nuts

  • Bubbling apple cider provides a crisp, refreshing contrast to the rich, sweet candied nuts, creating a delightful palate-cleansing experience.
  • Scoop vanilla ice cream alongside the warm candied nuts for a luxurious dessert combination that balances the crunchy texture with smooth, cold creaminess.
  • The strong, slightly bitter notes of an espresso martini cut through the sweetness of the nuts, offering a sophisticated adult treat that enhances the candied flavors.
  • A smooth, oak-aged bourbon brings out the warm spices in the nuts, creating a harmonious pairing that highlights the cinnamon and sugar coating.

Flavor Twists on Slow Cooker Candied Nuts

  • Nut-Free Alternative: Replace nuts with roasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for a similar crunchy texture, perfect for those with nut allergies.
  • Keto-Friendly Version: Swap granulated sugar with erythritol or monk fruit sweetener, using melted coconut oil instead of butter to create a low-carb candied treat.
  • Spicy Kick Variation: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the sugar mixture for a sweet and spicy flavor profile that adds excitement to the classic recipe.
  • Vegan Adaptation: Use coconut oil instead of butter, and choose plant-based sweeteners like maple syrup or agave nectar to create a dairy-free and animal-product-free version of the candied nuts.
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Slow Cooker Candied Nuts Recipe

Slow Cooker Candied Nuts Recipe


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4.7 from 28 reviews

  • Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Sweet holiday magic happens when homemade Slow Cooker Candied Nuts fill kitchens with irresistible cinnamon-sugar aromas. Crunchy pecans or walnuts become golden-glazed treats you cannot resist munching through festive gatherings.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 4 cups (960 ml) mixed nuts (pecans, almonds, cashews, or your favorites)
  • 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
  • ½ cup (100 grams) brown sugar

Spices and Seasonings:

  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Binding Ingredients:

  • 1 egg white
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) water

Instructions

  1. Prepare the slow cooker surface with a thin layer of butter or cooking spray, creating a non-stick environment for the delicate nuts. Activate the slow cooker at its lowest temperature setting to promote gentle, uniform heating.
  2. Craft a luxurious coating by blending granulated and brown sugars with aromatic cinnamon, optional ginger, and a subtle salt accent. Incorporate melted butter and vanilla extract, whisking until the mixture transforms into a glossy, cohesive syrup.
  3. Gently tumble the selected nuts into the slow cooker, then cascade the sweet syrup over them. Tenderly fold the nuts, ensuring each morsel receives a thorough, even glaze.
  4. Secure the slow cooker lid and allow the nuts to simmer on low heat for approximately 2 hours. Interrupt the cooking process every half-hour to redistribute the nuts, promoting consistent caramelization and preventing potential burning.
  5. After cooking, let the nuts rest briefly within the slow cooker, allowing residual heat to solidify the sugary coating. Carefully separate any clustered nuts with a gentle stirring motion. Transfer the candied creation onto parchment paper or a silicone mat, permitting complete cooling and achieving a crisp, delectable texture.

Notes

  • Enhance flavor depth by toasting nuts briefly in a dry skillet before adding to the slow cooker, which will unlock richer nutty notes and create a more complex taste profile.
  • Customize sweetness levels by adjusting sugar quantities, using alternative sweeteners like coconut sugar or monk fruit for low-carb and diabetic-friendly options.
  • Prevent moisture buildup during cooking by leaving the slow cooker lid slightly ajar or using a kitchen towel underneath to absorb condensation and maintain crisp nut texture.
  • Experiment with spice variations like adding cardamom, nutmeg, or cayenne pepper to create unique flavor combinations that elevate the classic candied nut recipe.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3 hours
  • Category: Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 221
  • Sugar: 17 g
  • Sodium: 58 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 24 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg
Dave Mitchell

Dave Mitchell

Founder & Chief Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Grilling Techniques and Innovations​
  • Recipe Development and Testing
  • Culinary Education and Workshops​
  • Food Photography and Styling

Education

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Comprehensive training in culinary techniques, kitchen management, and menu planning, with a special emphasis on grilling and outdoor cooking. ​


Dave Mitchell is the heart behind Daves Grill, a cook, writer, and lover of all things grilled. He studied Culinary Arts at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and spent years cooking, testing, and sharing recipes that actually work.

Dave started Daves Grill to keep things simple: one great recipe at a time. His food is bold, easy to follow, and made for real people with regular kitchens. From juicy steaks to quick sides, Dave’s recipes bring the heat without the hassle.

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