Panocha Walnuts are a timeless confection featuring crunchy walnut halves coated in a rich, glossy caramel made from brown sugar, granulated sugar, and a hint of vanilla. The deep molasses notes of the brown sugar pair perfectly with the earthy richness of the walnuts, creating a sweet and satisfying treat that is both elegant and simple to prepare. These brittle-style candies are ideal for holiday gift boxes, festive parties, or as a delightful addition to cheese boards. The key to success is reaching the firm-ball stage to ensure a crisp snap rather than a chewy center. Once cooled, they keep well in an airtight container, making them a perfect make-ahead dessert.
Panocha Walnuts
Description
Panocha Walnuts are a timeless confection featuring crunchy walnut halves coated in a rich, glossy caramel made from brown sugar, granulated sugar, and a hint of vanilla. The deep molasses notes of the brown sugar pair perfectly with the earthy richness of the walnuts, creating a sweet and satisfying treat that is both elegant and simple to prepare. These brittle-style candies are ideal for holiday gift boxes, festive parties, or as a delightful addition to cheese boards. The key to success is reaching the firm-ball stage to ensure a crisp snap rather than a chewy center. Once cooled, they keep well in an airtight container, making them a perfect make-ahead dessert.Ingredients
Directions
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In a 3-quart heavy saucepan, combine brown sugar, granulated sugar, water, and salt.
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Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally until the sugar is completely dissolved.
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Once boiling, reduce heat slightly and cook slowly without stirring until the mixture reaches 246&# 194;°F (119ðC) on a candy thermometer, indicating the firm-ball stage.
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Remove the saucepan from the heat immediately.
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Stir in the vanilla extract and the walnut halves until the nuts are evenly coated with the hot sugar syrup.
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Quickly pour the mixture onto a sheet of waxed paper or aluminum foil.
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While still warm, use two forks to spread the mixture out and separate the individual walnut halves.
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Allow the panocha walnuts to cool completely until the caramel hardens and becomes crisp.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 1328.7kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 97.5g150%
- Saturated Fat 9.2g46%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 1261.8mg53%
- Total Carbohydrate 110.1g37%
- Dietary Fiber 10.5g42%
- Sugars 92.9g
- Protein 22.9g46%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Use a candy thermometer for accuracy. If you don't have one, test the firm-ball stage by dropping a small amount of syrup into cold water; it should form a firm ball that holds its shape.
Be careful when handling the hot sugar syrup, as it can cause severe burns.
Store cooled panocha walnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If they become soft due to humidity, you can re-crisp them in a 250ðF oven for 5-10 minutes.
For a variation, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the sugar mixture before boiling.
