CROCK POT CINNAMON ALMONDS

There’s something irresistible about the aroma of cinnamon and sugar wafting through the kitchen. It instantly transports me to festive gatherings and cozy evenings spent with loved ones. One particular recipe that never fails to evoke these warm memories is for Cinnamon Sugar Almonds. It’s a delightful treat that combines the nutty goodness of almonds with the sweet, caramelized crunch of a cinnamon sugar coating. Whether you’re preparing these almonds for a holiday party or just a quiet night in, they are sure to be a hit with everyone.

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups Sugar

1 1/2 cups Brown Sugar

3 tablespoons Cinnamon

1/8 teaspoon Salt

1 Egg White

2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract

3 cups Almonds

1/4 cup Water

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture:

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Set aside.

2. Coat the Almonds:

In another medium-sized bowl, whisk the egg white and vanilla extract together until the mixture becomes frothy. Add the almonds to the egg white mixture, ensuring they are thoroughly coated.

3. Combine Almonds with Cinnamon Sugar Mixture:

Pour the cinnamon sugar mixture over the almonds. Toss gently but thoroughly until all almonds are evenly coated with the cinnamon sugar mixture.

4. Prepare the Crock Pot:

Thoroughly spray the stoneware of your crock pot with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Transfer the coated almonds into the crock pot.

5. Cook in the Crock Pot:

Cook the almonds on low heat with the lid on for 3 to 4 hours, stirring every 20 minutes to ensure even cooking and coating.

6. Add Water for Crunchy Coating:

In the last hour of cooking, add 1/4 cup of water to the almonds in the crock pot. Stir well to incorporate the water into the cinnamon sugar coating. This step helps create a crunchy texture.

7. Continue Cooking and Stirring:

After adding the water, continue to cook the almonds for another 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring well every 20 minutes. This final cooking period ensures that the almonds develop a crispy, caramelized coating.

8. Cool and Separate Almonds:

Once the almonds are cooked and have a crunchy coating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the almonds flat on the baking sheet to cool. As the almonds cool, they may stick together slightly, so use a spoon to separate them and prevent large clumps from forming.

9. Serve and Enjoy:

Once completely cooled and separated, your cinnamon sugar almonds are ready to be enjoyed! They make a wonderful snack for any occasion or a delightful homemade gift.

Variations and Substitutions:

Nuts: You can substitute almonds with other nuts such as pecans, walnuts, or cashews.

Spices: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg, pumpkin pie spice, or a touch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

Sweeteners: If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the amount of sugar or use a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Making cinnamon sugar almonds is not just about the end result—it’s about the entire experience. From the moment you start mixing the fragrant cinnamon sugar to the final crunch of perfectly coated almonds, every step is a labor of love. This recipe allows you to customize flavors and textures, making it adaptable to different tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re enjoying them at a party, packaging them as gifts, or simply treating yourself at home, these cinnamon sugar almonds are guaranteed to bring joy and warmth to any occasion. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and embark on a culinary journey that promises sweet, crunchy satisfaction in every bite.