Sweet-and-Spicy Sesame Walnuts

By Cmplxhmn

A gentle heat makes these seasoned walnuts ideal with cocktails.

Ingredients

• 1 pound(s) walnut halves (about 4 cups)
• 1 cup(s) sugar
• 1/2 cup(s) water
• 1/3 cup(s) (4 ounces) sesame seeds
• 1.25 teaspoon(s) cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon(s) kosher salt

Preparation

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large, wide saucepan, combine the walnuts, sugar, and water and bring to a boil. Add the sesame seeds, cayenne, and salt and cook over moderate heat, stirring constantly, until the water is nearly evaporated, about 4 minutes. Lower the heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the walnuts are golden brown and sandy, about 4 minutes longer.

Immediately pour the walnuts onto the prepared baking sheet and spread in a single layer. Bake for about 20 minutes, until the nuts are deeply golden and covered with a sandy coating. Let the walnuts cool completely. Break any large clusters apart; transfer to a bowl to serve.