Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Warmly Spiced Almond Crunch

A whisper of warm spice and a delicate, crisp coating transform ordinary almonds into an irresistible treat. This recipe, inspired by DASH principles, balances flavor and wellness, making it perfect for gatherings or a simple moment of indulgence.

  • Total Time2 hours 5 minutes
  • Yield17 (1/3 cup each) 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons 25g granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons 27g packed light brown sugar
  • 1 ¾ pounds 800g raw, unsalted whole almonds
  • 2 large egg whites
  • ½ teaspoon pure almond extract
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 1 teaspoon finely grated orange zest

Instructions

  1. Oven & Pan Prep: Set your oven to preheat to 300°F (150°C). Line a heavy-duty half-sheet pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  2. Aerate the Egg Whites: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric hand mixer on medium speed to beat the two egg whites and the almond extract. Continue for 1-2 minutes, just until the mixture is light, white, and frothy.
  3. Combine Spice & Sugars: In a separate large bowl, thoroughly whisk together the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground cardamom, and orange zest until uniform.
  4. Initial Almond Coating: Add the raw almonds to the frothy egg white mixture. Use a silicone spatula to fold and stir, ensuring every almond is evenly glossed with the foam.
  5. Dredge with Spice Mix: Pour the sugar and spice mixture over the coated almonds. Continue to fold and stir until the dry ingredients cling to the almonds, forming an even crust.
  6. The First Bake: Spread the coated almonds in a single, even layer on the prepared half-sheet pan. Bake for 20 minutes in the preheated oven.
  7. Low & Slow Finish: Remove the pan from the oven and use the spatula to gently stir the almonds, redistributing them for even cooking. Reduce the oven temperature to 225°F (110°C). Return the pan to the oven and continue baking for 45 minutes, or until the coating is dry to the touch and the almonds are a deep golden brown.
  8. Cool & Crisp: Let the almonds cool completely on the pan set over a wire rack. They will become wonderfully crisp as they reach room temperature. Gently break apart any clusters that have formed before serving or storing.

Notes

  • Storage: Keep the almonds in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If they lose their crispness, you can refresh them on a baking sheet in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-7 minutes.
  • Spice Variations: For a touch of heat, you may incorporate ⅛ teaspoon of cayenne pepper into the sugar and spice mixture.

Nutrition Facts (1/3 cup, 52 g): Calories 285 kcal | Total Fat 23.3 g (Saturated Fat: 1.8 g) | Cholesterol 0 mg | Sodium 7 mg | Total Carbs 13.3 g (Dietary Fiber: 5.7 g, Total Sugars: 5.4 g, Added Sugars: 3.1 g) | Protein 10.4 g | Potassium 344 mg | Calcium 128 mg

These values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients and preparation.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Snack
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Calories: 285

Find it online: https://dietareas.com/2025/08/18/my-favorite-candied-almonds-recipe-cozy-spiced-crunch/