Walnuts Candied with Whiskey Smoked Brown Sugar

Walnuts Candied with Whiskey Smoked Brown Sugar

Walnuts are one of my favorite nuts--they are naturally sweet and rich. Tossed in Whiskey Smoked Brown Sugar they are addictive. This recipe only takes minutes to make this recipe. Use them as a snack to accompany a Manhattan; toss in a salad with blue cheese or use to garnish a cake. They would make excellent holiday gifts.

Makes 1½ cups

2 teaspoons unsalted butter
4 tablespoons Whiskey Smoked brown sugar* or brown sugar
1½ teaspoons water
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
1½ cup (4 ounces) walnuts
2 teaspoons (6 grams) sesame seeds

1. In a heavy bottomed saucepan over medium heat place the butter, Whiskey Smoked brown sugar, water, vanilla, and salt. Cook until the butter has melted and the sugar is dissolved.
2. Add the walnuts all at once and cook for about 3 minutes. Stir in the sesame seeds and cook for another 2 minutes.
3. Place on parchment paper, separate them so they don't stick together. When they are cool store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.

* You can order the Whiskey Smoked brown sugar at http://thesmokedolive.com
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