Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Gebrannte Mandeln recipe is simple, quick, and requires only a handful of pantry staples. Unlike many candy recipes that can be intimidating, this one relies on patience and careful cooking rather than complex techniques. The result is almonds with a crisp, crackling sugar coating and a soft, flavorful center. They make perfect treats for holiday gatherings, parties, or just a cozy snack at home.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups almonds, with skin
- 1/3 cup water
- 1 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
Directions
- In a large non-stick skillet or heavy-bottomed pan, combine the almonds, water, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the water evaporates and the sugar begins to crystallize around the almonds.
- Continue stirring until the sugar melts slightly again and forms a golden, crunchy coating on the almonds. Be careful not to burn the sugar.
- Spread the candied almonds on a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool completely. Separate any clusters while still warm.
- Once cooled, store in an airtight container to maintain crunchiness.
Servings and Timing
This recipe yields about 2 cups of candied almonds. Prep time is 5 minutes, and cooking takes roughly 15–20 minutes, making the total time just 20–25 minutes.
Variations
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for extra warmth.
- Mix in pecans, hazelnuts, or cashews for a nutty variety.
- Dust lightly with cocoa powder or powdered sugar for a decorative twist.
- Reduce sugar slightly for a less sweet version.
- Sprinkle a tiny pinch of sea salt over the hot almonds for a sweet-and-salty flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store cooled candied almonds in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. To refresh slightly soft almonds, warm them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–7 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use blanched almonds instead of almonds with skin?
Yes, but the skin adds extra texture and a traditional flavor.
Do I need a non-stick pan?
While not strictly necessary, a non-stick or heavy-bottomed pan helps prevent the sugar from sticking and burning.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely. Candied almonds can be made several days in advance and stored in an airtight container.
Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?
Yes, brown sugar will give a deeper, molasses-like flavor but may slightly change the texture of the coating.
How do I prevent the sugar from burning?
Keep the heat at medium and stir constantly. The sugar should crystallize first, then gently caramelize without turning too dark.
Conclusion
German Candied Almonds are a simple yet magical treat that transforms plain almonds into a crunchy, sweet delight. With the warm flavors of cinnamon and vanilla, they’re perfect for holidays, fairs, or a special homemade snack. Crispy, fragrant, and utterly addictive, these Gebrannte Mandeln are a little piece of German tradition you can enjoy anytime.
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German Candied Almonds (Gebrannte Mandeln)
German Candied Almonds, or Gebrannte Mandeln, are sweet, crunchy almonds coated in a caramelized sugar layer with cinnamon and vanilla. Perfect for holiday treats, fairs, or as a cozy snack, they’re quick to make and irresistibly delicious.
- Total Time: 20–25 minutes
- Yield: 2 cups (about 8 servings)
Ingredients
2 cups almonds, with skin
1/3 cup water
1 1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
Instructions
- In a large non-stick skillet or heavy-bottomed pan, combine the almonds, water, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the water evaporates and the sugar begins to crystallize around the almonds.
- Continue stirring until the sugar melts slightly again and forms a golden, crunchy coating on the almonds. Be careful not to burn the sugar.
- Spread the candied almonds on a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool completely. Separate any clusters while still warm.
- Once cooled, store in an airtight container to maintain crunchiness.
Notes
Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for extra warmth.
Mix in pecans, hazelnuts, or cashews for a nutty variety.
Dust lightly with cocoa powder or powdered sugar for a decorative twist.
Reduce sugar slightly for a less sweet version.
Sprinkle a tiny pinch of sea salt over hot almonds for a sweet-and-salty flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
- Category: Snack / Candy
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: German
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
