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.
Servings 17
Calories 285kcal
Ingredients
- 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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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 Information (Per Serving)
Approximate values based on standard ingredients.- Serving Size: about ⅓ cup (approx. 52g)
- Calories: 285
- Total Fat: 23.3 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.8 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Sodium: 7 mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 13.3 g
- Dietary Fiber: 5.7 g
- Total Sugars: 5.4 g (Includes 3.1g Added Sugars)
- Protein: 10.4 g
- Potassium: 344 mg
- Calcium: 128 mg