CINNAMON SPICE MAPLE-SUGAR WALNUTS

CINNAMON SPICE MAPLE-SUGAR WALNUTS image

Yield 6 cups

Number Of Ingredients 8

6 cups walnut halves (about 1 1/4 pounds)
1/2 cup maple sugar
1 Tblsp plus 1 1/2 tsp course salt
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 cup brandy
2 Tblsp pure vanilla extract
1 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
2 Tblsp unsalted butter

Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 350. Spread walnuts in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet; toast in oven, stirring occasionally, until fragrant, about 10 minutes. Let cool completely. 2. Meanwhile, mix maple sugar, salt and cinnamon in a medium bowl; set aside. 3. Bring brandy, vanilla syrup, and butter to a boil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat, and cook until liquid is reduced by half, about 5 minutes. 4. Stir in nuts, and cook, stirring, until skillet is almost dry, about 3 minutes. 5. Remove from heat, and immediately add reserved sugar mixture; toss until well coated. 6. Spread out coated nuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper; let cool completely for 6 hours (or overnight). Store in air tight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.