Instant Pot Candied Nuts

Instant Pot Candied Nuts –Candied nuts are a delicious and easy holiday treat. They’re perfect to put out with cocktails or as a snack while you watch your favorite team play on TV.

And they can be made in just 10 minutes from start to finish!

Today, we will learn how to make these candied nuts in your Instant Pot, giving you more time. You’ll love them so much that they’ll become an instant staple at every party you throw!

When the beautiful summer days roll around, there’s nothing better than a fresh-outta-the-oven or out-on-countertop air fryer cookie. But as any mom knows, picking snacks for your kids is always challenging because they’ve got tastes that are different from ours! So this year, I’m trying some new recipes in both appliances and seeing what he likes best before buying too many things at once– just like people without gluten allergies do when going grocery shopping (and then having them end up being expensive).

I love how my family loves nuts. I will experiment with more peanuts as the month continues, but it’s pecan time today! My dad picked up a bag at our favorite grocery store and wanted me to try roasting them in an Instant Pot.

This batch was easy to make; they also have an incredible flavor after the final roasting (in the oven, but you could try it in the air fryer).

If you have been looking for some great Appetizer Recipes, some of my favorite recipes are AIR FRYER BLUEBERRY GOAT CHEESE EMPANADAS, CRISPY AIR FRYER CHICKEN WINGS, and AIR FRYER TURKEY CROQUETTES.

Roasting Nuts In Instant Pot

Roasting nuts in an Instant Pot is surprisingly efficient and effective, offering a delightful twist to the traditional way of roasting nuts in an oven. This innovative approach harnesses the versatility of the Instant Pot, allowing you to roast various types of nuts to perfection with minimal effort. The process is straightforward: by using the sauté function, the Instant Pot provides consistent, even heat that ensures your nuts are roasted evenly, bringing out their natural oils and enhancing their deep, nutty flavors. This method is not only quick but also allows for better control over the roasting process, reducing the chances of burning the nuts, a common mishap in conventional oven roasting.

The convenience and simplicity it offers makes roasting nuts particularly appealing in an Instant Pot. There’s no preheating required, and the nuts can be roasted in just a few minutes. You can experiment with nuts like almonds, pecans, walnuts, or cashews, and add your choice of seasonings – salt, a sprinkle of sugar, or a mix of spices for a savory twist. The result is a batch of beautifully roasted, fragrant nuts that can be enjoyed as a healthy snack, added to salads, or used in baking. This method saves time and keeps your kitchen cooler compared to using an oven, making it an excellent option for quick, hassle-free cooking.

Why You Will Love Making Candied Nuts In Pressure Cooker

Ingredients Needed For Instant Pot Candied Nuts

 

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

• Nuts (like Almonds, Pecans, or Walnuts): The main component is choosing your favorite nuts or a mix for varied textures and flavors.

• White Sugar: Provides the primary sweetness and caramelizes around the nuts for that classic candied coating.

• Brown Sugar: Adding a deeper, molasses-like sweetness contributes to a richer flavor and color.

• Cinnamon: Infuses the nuts with warm, spicy notes, making them aromatic and flavorful.

• Salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the overall taste of the candied nuts.

• Egg White: Binds the sugar and spices to the nuts and helps create a glossy, crunchy coating once cooked.

• Water: Used in minimal amounts to help dissolve the sugars and spices for an even coating on the nuts.

• Vanilla Extract: Adds a subtle depth and richness to the flavor profile of the candied nuts.

Each ingredient comes together harmoniously in the Instant Pot to create a batch of candied nuts that are delicious and have a gourmet feel, making them a perfect snack for any occasion.

How To Make Instant Pot Candied Nuts

Making candied nuts in an Instant Pot is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. Here’s how to do it:

 

Start by adding the pecans to your Instant Pot Bowl.

 

Then mix in the maple syrup and cinnamon.

Mix well so all of the pecans are coated.

Saute’ until the pecans are softened and tender. Then follow the instructions in the recipe below.

 

After the pecans are done in the pressure cooker, spread them on an oven-safe baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 325 degrees F for 25 to 30 minutes.

Recipe Variations

Experimenting with recipe variations can add exciting new flavors to your Instant Pot candied nuts. Here are some creative ideas to try:

• Spicy Candied Nuts: Add a kick to your candied nuts with a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder mixed into the sugar coating. This variation offers a sweet and spicy flavor profile that’s irresistibly delicious.
• Maple Cinnamon Candied Nuts: Substitute some sugar with pure maple syrup for a richer sweetness. The maple pairs wonderfully with cinnamon for a cozy, autumnal flavor.
• Vanilla and Brown Sugar Candied Nuts: Enhance the vanilla flavor by adding extra vanilla extract to the egg white mixture. More brown sugar than white sugar will give the nuts a deeper, caramel-like flavor.
• Salted Caramel Candied Nuts: Mix in a tablespoon of caramel sauce with the sugars, and finish the candied nuts with a light sprinkle of sea salt. This creates a delightful salted caramel effect.
• Cocoa-Dusted Candied Nuts: Dust lightly with cocoa powder after the nuts have cooled. The chocolate flavor adds a delightful twist to the sweet candied nuts.
• Honey Glazed Candied Nuts: Replace some sugar with honey for a natural and distinct sweetness. Honey adds a lovely glaze and pairs well with a variety of spices.
• Pumpkin Spice Candied Nuts: Add pumpkin pie spice to the sugar mixture for a seasonal flavor perfect for the fall and winter holidays.
• Rosemary and Thyme Candied Nuts: Add finely chopped fresh rosemary and thyme to the sugar mixture for a savory twist. The herbs will add a fragrant and earthy note to the nuts.
• Lemon Zest Candied Nuts: Add lemon zest to the sugar mixture for a fresh, citrusy aroma. This adds a bright note to the sweet flavor of the candied nuts.
• Coffee Flavored Candied Nuts: Mix in a teaspoon of instant coffee or espresso powder into the sugar coating for a subtle coffee flavor that pairs wonderfully with the nuts.

Each of these variations adds a unique twist to the traditional candied nuts recipe, catering to different tastes and making the recipe versatile for various occasions. Whether you prefer your candied nuts sweet, spicy, savory, or with a hint of coffee, there’s a variation to suit your preference.

Pro Tips

Creating the perfect Instant Pot candied nuts can be fun and rewarding. Here are some pro tips to help you achieve the best results:

• Choice of Nuts: Use fresh, unsalted nuts for the best flavor. You can use a single type of nut like pecans or almonds or a mix for variety.

• Egg White Whisking: Whisk the egg white until it’s frothy but not stiff. This helps the sugar and spice mixture adhere better to the nuts, creating a more uniform coating.

• Consistent Coating: Ensure all the nuts are evenly coated with the egg white and sugar mixture. The uneven coating can result in inconsistent texture and flavor.

• Avoiding Sogginess: The candied nuts might be slightly soft immediately after cooking in the Instant Pot. Spreading them out on a baking sheet and cooling them will help them crisp up.

• Utilizing the Oven: For extra crispiness, you can finish the nuts in a preheated oven at a low temperature until they reach your desired level of crunchiness.

• Flavor Customization: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different spices and flavorings. Additions like vanilla extract, cinnamon, or cocoa powder can significantly enhance the taste.

• Proper Storage: Store the candied nuts in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for weeks if kept dry.

• Stirring While Cooking: If your Instant Pot model has a sauté function, you can stir the nuts occasionally, ensuring even cooking and caramelization.

• Portion Control: Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot, which can lead to unevenly cooked nuts.

• Monitoring Closely: Keep a close eye on the nuts, especially if finishing them in the oven, as they can go from perfectly candied to burnt quickly.

• Cooling Before Eating: Let the nuts cool completely before tasting. This allows the sugars to harden, giving them the classic candied crunch.

By following these tips, you can create a delightful snack perfect for sharing, gifting, or enjoying on your own. Candied nuts made in the Instant Pot are delicious and a simpler and quicker alternative to traditional methods.

 

Faq’s

Can I use different types of nuts for this recipe? You can use nuts such as almonds, pecans, walnuts, or cashews. Each type will offer a different flavor and texture.

How do I store candied nuts, and how long will they last? Store candied nuts in an airtight container at room temperature. They typically last several weeks but check for freshness if stored for extended periods.

Can I make candied nuts without an egg white? The egg white helps the sugar and spices adhere to the nuts, but you can omit it for dietary reasons. The nuts may not be as evenly coated, but they will still be tasty.

Is it necessary to use the sauté function in the Instant Pot for this recipe? The sauté function is not typically used for making candied nuts in the Instant Pot. The pressure cook function is generally used for cooking, followed by optional baking in an oven for crispiness.

Can I double the recipe in the Instant Pot? You can, but be cautious not to overcrowd the pot, as this can lead to uneven cooking. You may need to adjust cooking times for larger batches.

How do I know when the candied nuts are done in the Instant Pot? Candied nuts are generally done when they have a shiny, glazed appearance. Remember they will continue to harden and become more crunchy as they cool.

Can I add different flavors to my candied nuts? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cinnamon, nutmeg, or pumpkin spice. You can add vanilla extract, cocoa powder, or citrus zest for different flavors.

What should I do if my candied nuts are too sticky or soft? If the nuts are too sticky or soft after cooling, you can bake them in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes to achieve additional crispiness.

Are candied nuts made in an Instant Pot healthier than store-bought? Homemade candied nuts can be healthier as you control the ingredients and can adjust the sugar and salt to your preference.

Can I use sugar substitutes in this recipe? You can use sugar substitutes like stevia or erythritol, but the texture and flavor may vary from regular sugar.

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