Oklahoma Nut Candy is a beloved treat that combines the rich, savory taste of nuts with the indulgent sweetness of caramelized sugar and other complementary ingredients.
Known for its crunchy texture and delectable flavor, this candy is often made during festive seasons or served as a snack at various gatherings.
Oklahoma Nut Candy represents both the creativity of local candy makers and the regional love for nuts, making it a quintessential dessert of the American Midwest.
Ingredients and Quantities
Here’s a basic list of ingredients for making Oklahoma Nut Candy:
2 cups of mixed nuts (such as pecans, walnuts, and peanuts)
1 cup of granulated sugar
1/2 cup of butter
1/4 cup of light corn syrup
1/4 teaspoon of salt
1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Optional Additions
1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon (for a warm spice flavor)
1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg
1/4 cup of chocolate chips (for added richness)
1/4 cup of shredded coconut (for extra texture)
1 tablespoon of honey (for a deeper sweetness).
Instructions
Prepare the Nuts: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the mixed nuts in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast them for about 10 minutes to bring out their flavor. Set them aside.
Make the Sugar Mixture: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the granulated sugar, corn syrup, and salt.
Stir constantly, and bring the mixture to a boil.
Once boiling, continue to cook for about 5 minutes, or until it reaches the hard crack stage (300°F on a candy thermometer).
Add Flavorings: Remove the sugar mixture from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract (and optional cinnamon or nutmeg, if using).
Combine with Nuts: Immediately pour the sugar mixture over the roasted nuts, stirring to coat them evenly. If using chocolate chips or other optional additions, stir them in now.
Cool and Break Apart: Pour the candy onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and let it cool completely. Once cooled, break it into pieces and serve.
Tips for Success
Use Fresh Nuts: Ensure the nuts you use are fresh, as stale nuts can affect the overall taste and texture.
Monitor Heat Carefully: When cooking the sugar mixture, use a candy thermometer to ensure the right temperature (around 300°F for hard crack stage).
Stir Constantly: To avoid burning the sugar mixture, stir it continuously once it starts to bubble.
Prepare a Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it with butter to prevent the candy from sticking.
Cool Properly: Allow the candy to cool at room temperature. Avoid rushing the cooling process as it helps set the texture and flavor.
How to Store French Onion Soup
In the Refrigerator:
Store the soup (without bread or cheese) in an airtight container.
It will keep for 3 to 4 days in the fridge.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
In the Freezer:
Freeze the soup (without the bread and cheese) in freezer-safe containers or bags.
It will last for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or reheat directly from frozen on low heat.
Bread and Cheese:
Keep the toasted bread and grated cheese separate.
Prepare and add them fresh when ready to serve to maintain their texture and flavor.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1/8th of recipe):
Calories: 150
Total Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 10mg
Sodium: 40mg
Carbohydrates: 10g
Sugars: 8g
Protein: 3g
Fiber: 1g
Note: These values may vary based on ingredient choices, such as the type of nuts used or the addition of chocolate and other variations.