Melis Campbell
What could be nicer at Christmas time than the smell of freshly roasted almonds. Unfortunately, many Christmas markets have been canceled due to the corona virus – so the only alternative is to make roasted almonds yourself. Luckily it’s not complicated at all. Here’s the recipe.
Roasted almonds are a classic at Christmas and annual markets. Since many have to be canceled this winter due to the corona pandemic, we are simply making the delicacy ourselves this year. We promise: The roasted almonds from our own kitchen taste like fresh from the Christmas market. And – perhaps – a small consolation: Homemade roasted almonds are significantly cheaper, you know exactly what’s in them and if you like, you can save on sugar when preparing them.
Roasted Almonds: Recipe for Christmas cheer at home
Ingredients for homemade roasted almonds:
- 200 grams of almonds (with shell)
- 200 grams of sugar (be sure to use refined sugar, this is the best way to caramelize it)
- 100ml of water
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 1 pinch of cinnamon, cardamom or other Christmas spices
You can use less sugar if you want. And those who like to experiment can refine the almonds with chili or other spices.
Roasted almonds recipe
An important note in advance: Make absolutely sure that the sugar does not burn.
- Place the sugar, vanilla sugar and cinnamon in a stainless steel saucepan and mix.
- Add water and heat without stirring until the sugar water boils.
- Then add the almonds and continue to simmer, stirring constantly.
- If tough caramel threads form, you have to be careful! The almonds should not be too dark now and the sugar should not burn.
- When the water has completely evaporated and the almonds are dry, the sugar will form a crumbly layer around the almonds. Then spread the almonds on a baking sheet lined with baking paper, separate them and let them dry.
Toasted almonds (or peanuts, macadamias, sunflower seeds, hazelnuts and walnuts) are nicely packed in paper bags and make a delicious last-minute gift. The freshly roasted almonds keep for about two to three weeks. After that, they don’t go bad, but their fine taste diminishes.
When the roasted almonds are ready: clean the pan
The almonds are ready – now the question arises: “How do I get the pan clean again?” It’s easier than it looks at first glance: put a little water in the pan, boil it up briefly and wipe it off with a cloth.
