There’s something incredibly comforting about the warm, sweet aroma of cinnamon and maple syrup toasted together. This Maple Cinnamon Almonds Recipe turns simple almonds into a delightful snack that’s perfect for cozy afternoons or gift-giving. You’ll love how easy it is to make, yet feels like such a special treat.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
I honestly can’t get enough of this Maple Cinnamon Almonds Recipe. It’s one of those snacks that’s simple but impressively tasty—you’ll look forward to making it again and again.
- Easy to make: Just one skillet and a handful of ingredients, with no baking involved.
- Perfectly balanced flavors: The natural sweetness of maple syrup pairs beautifully with warm cinnamon and a hint of salt.
- Crunchy and satisfying: You get that perfect toastiness that makes these almonds addictive.
- Versatile snack: Great for afternoon munching, topping salads, or gifting during the holidays.
Ingredients & Why They Work
These ingredients work together to give you that warm, cozy vibe with a slight crunch and sweetness that’s not overpowering. Each component is simple but essential.
- Raw whole almonds: Using raw almonds lets you control the toasting perfectly, and they soak up the maple syrup coating perfectly.
- Pure maple syrup: This is the real magic here—pure maple syrup adds rich sweetness with complex flavors much better than processed sugars.
- Ground cinnamon: It brings that warm, spicy note that complements the almonds and maple flawlessly.
- Kosher salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and enhance all the flavors.
Make It Your Way
One of my favorite things about this Maple Cinnamon Almonds Recipe is how easy it is to tweak. I often switch up the spices or add a little vanilla extract to the maple syrup for a different twist.
- Variation: I once added a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a smoky-sweet combo, and it was unexpected but delicious. Feel free to experiment with nut varieties like pecans or walnuts too.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Maple Cinnamon Almonds Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Good Stuff
Start by pouring the maple syrup into a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the raw almonds, cinnamon, and kosher salt right away. Stir everything gently so the almonds get evenly coated in that gorgeous syrupy mixture. This is where the flavor starts to build, so thumbs up for giving it a good stir.
Step 2: Let the Magic Happen – Cook and Stir
Keep stirring the almonds every minute or so for about 10–12 minutes. You’ll notice the maple syrup slowly evaporating, and the mixture turns powdery as it clings to the almonds. You’ll know you’re on the right track when the nuts smell toasty with that wonderful cinnamon aroma filling your kitchen. Just watch closely so it doesn’t burn.
Step 3: Spread and Cool
Once there’s no liquid left and the almonds are nicely toasted, remove them from the heat immediately. Spread them out on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer. This step is crucial to let the coating set up and crisp perfectly. Trust me, the cooling part makes all the difference.
Step 4: Enjoy or Store
Let the almonds cool completely before digging in. Enjoy them right away or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They also freeze beautifully if you want to make a batch ahead for later.
Top Tip
From countless rounds of making this recipe, I’ve learned a few tricks that really help nail that perfect texture and flavor.
- Go low and slow: Medium heat is key—too hot and the syrup burns, too low and it won’t crisp up properly.
- Constant stirring: Don’t walk away here; keep stirring to prevent clumps and burning.
- Use parchment paper: This simple step stops your almonds from sticking as they cool.
- Wait for cool down: It’s tempting to snack immediately, but the coating needs to harden fully for that satisfying crunch.
How to Serve Maple Cinnamon Almonds Recipe
Garnishes
I usually enjoy these almonds plain since they’re packed with flavor, but a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top right before cooling adds a luxe touch. Sometimes, I toss in a few chocolate chips for a decadent twist that’s sure to impress.
Side Dishes
For a cozy snack spread, I like pairing these almonds with Greek yogurt and fresh fruit or sliced apples. They also work wonderfully on salads for that sweet crunch or sprinkled over oatmeal.
Creative Ways to Present
During holidays, I love packaging these maple cinnamon almonds in small mason jars or decorative bags tied with twine to give as thoughtful homemade gifts. Adding a little cinnamon stick as a garnish makes it feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I keep mine in an airtight container (usually a glass jar) on the counter. They stay crunchy and fresh for about a week, and I often find myself snacking a little every day.
Freezing
If I want to save them longer, freezing is my go-to. I pop the almonds into a freezer-safe bag and freeze them for up to two months. They defrost quickly at room temperature and still taste fantastic.
Reheating
If you want to warm them back up, just toss a small batch in a skillet over low heat for a minute or two to refresh that toasted crunch. Be careful not to overheat them or the coating can get sticky again.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Absolutely! While almonds work wonderfully, you can swap them with pecans, walnuts, or cashews. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to avoid burning, as different nuts toast at different rates.
You’ll notice the maple syrup glaze dries up and turns into a thin, powdery coating on the almonds. The nuts will smell toasted and cinnamon-y, and the mixture won’t be sticky anymore. These signs mean you’re good to go.
Yes! This recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free as long as you use pure maple syrup and kosher salt. It’s a great snack to serve to friends with dietary restrictions.
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they’ll stay fresh for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, freeze the almonds for up to two months and thaw before eating.
Final Thoughts
This Maple Cinnamon Almonds Recipe holds a special place in my snack rotation—not just because it’s easy or delicious, but because it brings simple ingredients together in such a cozy way. I hope you enjoy making and sharing these almonds as much as I do—you might just find a new favorite snack to keep on hand all year round.
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Maple Cinnamon Almonds Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 1.5 cups
- Category: Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Maple Cinnamon Almonds are a delightful snack featuring raw almonds coated in a sweet and spicy maple syrup glaze. Toasted to perfection with cinnamon and a hint of kosher salt, these almonds are a healthier, naturally vegan, and gluten-free treat that’s crunchy and full of flavor.
Ingredients
Almonds
- 1.5 cup raw whole almonds
Maple Cinnamon Coating
- ⅓ cup pure maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
- Combine: In a large nonstick skillet, combine the pure maple syrup, raw whole almonds, ground cinnamon, and kosher salt. Stir thoroughly to ensure the almonds are evenly coated with the maple syrup mixture.
- Cook: Place the skillet over medium heat and stir the almonds continuously for 12 minutes until the liquid from the maple syrup evaporates and the mixture develops a powdery texture. The almonds will emit a toasty, cinnamon aroma indicating they are perfectly toasted.
- Spread: Once the liquid has fully evaporated and the almonds have a thin, fine coating, remove the skillet from heat. Immediately spread the almonds in a single layer over a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool.
- Cool: Allow the coated almonds to cool completely on the baking sheet. This resting period helps the glaze set and the almonds to crisp up for the best texture.
- Serve & Store: Enjoy the cooled almonds immediately or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For extended storage, freeze for up to 2 months.
Notes
- These almonds are naturally sweetened with maple syrup, making them a healthier alternative to traditional candied nuts.
- The recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free, suitable for those dietary preferences.
- Stir continuously during cooking to prevent burning and ensure an even coating.
- Use kosher salt for balanced flavor; regular salt can substitute but adjust to taste.
- Cooling completely is key to achieving a crisp texture rather than sticky coating.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain crunchiness and freshness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons almonds
- Calories: 126 kcal
- Sugar: 6.1 g
- Sodium: 271 mg
- Fat: 8.9 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8.2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 9.8 g
- Fiber: 2.3 g
- Protein: 3.9 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
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