These easy Candied Walnuts are sweet, buttery, and perfectly spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg. They’re quick to make, irresistibly crunchy, and ideal for snacking, adding to salads or gifting to friends and family.

❤️ Why You’ll Love This Candied Walnuts Recipe

• Toasted walnuts
• Coated in a buttery brown sweetener 
• Warm cinnamon and nutmeg spices
• Quick and easy snack
• Low carb and vegetarian friendly

These delicious candied walnuts are the kind of snack that disappears almost as fast you make them. They’re perfectly toasted, coated in a buttery brown sweetener, and sprinkled with cinnamon and nutmeg for that warm, cozy flavor we all love.

They’re perfect for serving at parties, or wrapping up as a homemade gift, but I also like to make an extra batch and use them during the week to toss into salads. The best part is that they taste like they came from a fancy candy shop but take just minutes to make. Once you see how simple this recipe is, you’ll want to keep a jar of them on hand year-round.

Love roasted nuts, but prefer savory flavors? Be sure to try this super easy recipe for Ranch Roasted Nuts.

🛒 Ingredients for Candied Walnuts

• Walnuts
• Brown monk fruit/allulose
• Butter
• Vanilla extract
• Ground cinnamon
• Ground nutmeg
• Salt

*Exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below.

🥣 Recommended Tools

• Saucepan
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Whisk

🔪 How to Make Candied Walnuts

Preheat oven to 375°F.

Spread out the walnuts on a baking sheet that’s been lined with parchment paper. Roast in the oven for 5-7 minutes or until slightly golden and fragrant.

Add the butter to a saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the sweetener, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt.

Bring to a gentle simmer and stir until the sweetener has dissolved. Turn off the heat and whisk in the vanilla extract.

Remove the walnuts from the oven, then stir them into the saucepan, mixing until all the walnuts are well coated.

Pour them out onto the same parchment lined baking sheet, spreading them out in one single layer working quickly using a silicone spatula.

Allow the walnuts to cool and harden, before breaking them up and serving.  This should take about 10 minutes or so. To speed things up, put them in the fridge or freezer and they will harder quicker.

💡 Tips

• Line your baking sheet with parchment paper before roasting so cleanup is easy.
• Stir the walnuts halfway through roasting for even color and flavor.
• Keep the heat on medium when melting the butter to avoid burning the sweetener.
• Use a silicone spatula to quickly spread the coated walnuts before they cool.
• Let them cool completely before breaking apart to ensure you get that crunchy texture.

☑️ Storage Instructions

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 weeks.

Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months in an airtight freezer-safe container or freezer bag; thaw at room temperature before serving.

🍴 Ways to Serve Candied Walnuts

• Toss over salads: They add the perfect sweet crunch to greens with goat cheese, spinach, or roasted beets.

• Mix into yogurt: A handful adds texture and warmth to breakfast without any extra effort. You could add them to your favorite low carb Greek yogurt.

• Use as an ice cream topping: That buttery coating goes perfectly with the creamy flavors in this No Churn Pumpkin Ice Cream.

• Serve with a cheese board: They pair beautifully with soft brie, sharp cheddar, or blue cheese.

• As a topping for baked brie: The sweetness of these walnuts makes the perfect topping for the festive Baked Brie.

• Crush and sprinkle on roasted vegetables: Try them on Brussels sprouts for a touch of sweetness.

• Add to baked goods: Stir into your favorite muffin like these Pumpkin Coffee Cake Muffins.

• Gift them: Package in small jars or bags for easy, homemade treats during the holidays.

• Snack straight from the jar: Honestly, that’s how most of mine disappear.   

🔄 Substitutions and Additions

• Heat: Add a sprinkle of cayenne for a sweet and spicy version.

• Nuts: Not a walnut fan? You can use pecans or almonds instead of walnuts for variety.

• Coconut: Add unsweetened shredded coconut before cooling for tasty snack mix.

• Chocolate: Mix in a few sugar-free chocolate chips once the nuts have cooled. You can also drizzle the cooled nuts with melted dark chocolate for a dessert-style treat.

Why Did My Coating Turn Grainy?

The sweetener may not have fully dissolved before adding the nuts. Stir until smooth before mixing them in.

Are These Candied Walnuts Keto-Friendly?

Yes, this version uses brown monk fruit/allulose, which keeps it low carb and keto-friendly.

How Do I Know When the Walnuts are Toasted Enough?

They’ll smell nutty and look slightly golden. Don’t let them get too dark or they’ll taste bitter.

Can I Double the Batch?

Absolutely. But I would recommend using two baking sheets so the walnuts aren’t crowded.

🍽️ More Keto Snacks

• Ranch Roasted Nuts
• Cheese Crisp Crackers
• Everything Bagel Crackers
• Keto Tortilla Chips