If you're a fan of sweet and nutty treats, caramelized hazelnuts are an absolute delight. Whether you want to enjoy them as a snack or use them in your favorite recipes, making caramelized hazelnuts at home is easy and incredibly rewarding. In this step-by-step guide, we'll walk you through the process of creating these delectable treats.
What You'll Need:
- 1 cup of raw hazelnuts
- ½ cup of granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons of water
- A pinch of salt
Step 1: Preparing the Hazelnuts
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread your hazelnuts evenly on a baking sheet and bake them for approximately 10-12 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Make sure to shake the baking sheet occasionally to prevent them from burning.
Step 2: Making the Caramel Sauce
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the sugar dissolves completely. Once the mixture starts boiling, stop stirring and let it simmer for about 5 minutes or until it turns a golden amber color. Be cautious as the mixture will be extremely hot.
Step 3: Adding the Hazelnuts
Once your caramel sauce reaches the desired color, quickly add the roasted hazelnuts to the saucepan. Use a heat-resistant spatula or wooden spoon to coat the hazelnuts evenly with the caramel sauce. Make sure all the nuts are well coated before moving on to the next step.
Step 4: Cooling and Breaking Apart
Transfer the caramelized hazelnuts onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spread them out in a single layer, making sure they are not clumped together. Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the hazelnuts for an extra burst of flavor. Allow the caramelized hazelnuts to cool completely, which usually takes around 15-20 minutes.
Step 5: Enjoying Your Caramelized Hazelnuts
Once the caramelized hazelnuts have cooled, break them apart if necessary. They are now ready to be enjoyed as a snack or used as a topping for desserts, salads, or even added to your morning cereal. Storage-wise, keep them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
Now that you've mastered the art of making caramelized hazelnuts, get creative and experiment with different flavors. Try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of melted chocolate for even more indulgence. However you choose to enjoy them, these homemade caramelized hazelnuts are bound to impress!