Cinnamon Maple Roasted Almonds
A simple, wholesome snack that combines roasted almonds with maple syrup, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Crunchy, sweet, and lightly spiced, these almonds are perfect for snacking, topping oatmeal, or gifting during the holidays.
Equipment
- 1 mixing bowl (medium)
- 1 small bowl
- 1 rimmed baking sheet
- Parchment paper (for lining)
- Spatula or spoon (for mixing)
Ingredients
- 2 cups raw almonds
- ¼ cup organic maple syrup
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp sea salt
Instructions
- Prepare Almonds for Coating: Begin by measuring out 2 cups of raw almonds and placing them into a medium-sized mixing bowl. Take a moment to inspect the almonds, removing any broken pieces or debris. This ensures that every bite will have consistent texture and flavor. Stir them lightly to get ready for the coating process.
- Mix the Sweet-Spice Syrup: In a separate small bowl, combine ¼ cup of organic maple syrup, 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon of sea salt. Use a spoon or small whisk to mix thoroughly until the ingredients form a smooth, aromatic syrup. The cinnamon should be evenly distributed, and the mixture should have a glossy, pourable consistency.
- Coat the Almonds Evenly: Pour the maple-cinnamon mixture over the almonds in the large mixing bowl. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, fold and stir the almonds gently but thoroughly. Make sure every almond is completely coated with the sweet-spicy syrup, ensuring a uniform flavor in each bite. This step is key to achieving that perfect balance of sweetness and warmth.
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Spread the coated almonds evenly across the sheet in a single layer. Make sure the almonds are not piled on top of each other—this allows them to roast evenly and develop a crunchy exterior.
- Roast the Almonds: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Place the baking sheet on the middle rack and roast the almonds for 18 to 20 minutes. Halfway through, stir the almonds gently to ensure even browning. Keep a close eye during the last few minutes to prevent burning, as the natural sugars in the maple syrup can caramelize quickly.
- Cool Before Handling: Once the almonds are lightly golden and fragrant, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Allow the almonds to cool completely at room temperature on the baking sheet. Cooling is crucial, as it lets the syrup harden slightly, giving the almonds a crunchy, caramelized coating.
- Break Apart and Store: After cooling, gently break apart any clusters that may have formed. Transfer the roasted almonds to an airtight container to preserve freshness. Store at room temperature for up to two weeks or in the refrigerator for longer shelf life.
- Serve and Enjoy: Your Cinnamon Maple Roasted Almonds are now ready to enjoy! Snack on them as-is, sprinkle over oatmeal or yogurt, or use them as a crunchy topping for salads. They’re versatile, satisfying, and perfect for any time of the day.
Notes
- For best results, use raw, unroasted almonds to control the roasting process and flavor.
- Adjust cinnamon and maple syrup amounts to taste; increase cinnamon for extra warmth or syrup for a sweeter glaze.
- Stir almonds halfway through roasting to ensure even caramelization and prevent burning.
- Cool completely before storing to avoid sticky clumps and maintain a crisp texture.
- This recipe is naturally gluten-free, plant-based, and high in fiber, making it a nutritious, satisfying snack option.
