Slow Cooker Cinnamon Almonds: The Ultimate Holiday Snack & Easy Gift
These Crockpot Cinnamon Almonds are the incredibly addictive, sweet spiced nuts everyone craves during the festive season. Made effortlessly in your slow cooker, they are a fantastic snack for holiday gatherings, a delightful treat for cozy evenings, or a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family. This recipe yields approximately 3 cups of irresistible cinnamon almonds.
Note: This article is an updated and expanded version of the original post from December 21, 2012. We’ve added more detailed information about the recipe, comprehensive tips and tricks, and a slightly refined recipe that’s even more delicious than before!
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About These Slow Cooker Cinnamon Almonds
There are some treats so incredibly good, they feel almost dangerous to have around – and these slow cooker cinnamon almonds definitely fall into that category! For years, I believed these ridiculously addictive candied nuts were something you could only get at festive markets or fairs, served warm in a paper cone, to be devoured quickly before you’d even walked a few steps. That quintessential aroma of sweet cinnamon and roasted nuts is truly the scent of celebration, signaling that the holidays are just around the corner, or perhaps already in full swing.
Discovering that I could recreate this magical experience right in my own kitchen, using something as simple as a slow cooker, was a game-changer. Now, the danger is real – these slow cooker cinnamon almonds have officially become my new obsession! And I guarantee they’ll become yours too. The beauty of this recipe lies not just in its incredible flavor, but in its ease. While the almonds require a little bit of attention with regular stirring during the cooking process, the actual prep time is incredibly fast.
Beyond the delightful crunch and the perfectly balanced sweet and spicy flavor, one of the most rewarding aspects of making these almonds is the incredible aroma that will fill your entire home. It’s truly the ultimate reward, transforming your kitchen into a warm, inviting haven that smells exactly like the holidays. These nuts are not just a snack; they are an experience, a memory in the making, and a testament to how a simple slow cooker can produce something truly extraordinary.
Key Ingredients You’ll Need
Crafting the perfect batch of crockpot cinnamon almonds starts with selecting the right ingredients. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need to create this irresistible holiday snack:
- Sugar: This recipe utilizes a harmonious blend of both granulated sugar and brown sugar. We recommend using light brown sugar for its delicate molasses notes, which complement the cinnamon beautifully. However, if dark brown sugar is all you have on hand, it will certainly work, imparting a slightly richer, deeper caramel flavor.
- Cinnamon: The star of the show! Use your favorite high-quality ground cinnamon. A good cinnamon can make all the difference, so don’t hesitate to use a brand you love for its warm, aromatic spice.
- Salt: A pinch of salt is crucial for balancing the sweetness and enhancing all the other flavors. Fine kosher salt is our go-to for this recipe, as well as for all our holiday baking, due to its consistent texture and pure flavor.
- Egg White: You’ll need one large egg white. This ingredient acts as a vital binder, helping to create that signature fine, crunchy coating that makes these candied almonds so appealing. It’s the secret to their irresistible texture!
- Vanilla Extract: Always opt for pure vanilla extract over imitation vanilla. The depth and complexity of pure vanilla truly elevate the flavor profile. We’re big fans of Nielsen Massey’s Madagascar Bourbon Pure Vanilla Extract, but homemade vanilla extract is even better if you have it!
- Almonds: For the best results, ensure you use whole, raw, and unsalted almonds. Sliced, halved, or slivered almonds won’t provide the same satisfying crunch and might burn more easily. It’s important that they are unsalted; otherwise, the added salt will throw off the carefully balanced sweet and savory flavors in the recipe.
- Water: Simple tap water is perfectly fine for this recipe. It helps to bring the coating together during the final stage of cooking, ensuring a perfect finish.
Essential Equipment for This Recipe
While the recipe itself is straightforward, having the right tools can make the process even smoother. Here’s the essential equipment you’ll need to make these delightful candied almonds:
- Slow Cooker, Crockpot, or Instant Pot Ultra: This is, of course, the star appliance for this recipe. A standard slow cooker or Crockpot will work perfectly. If you’re in the market for a versatile new kitchen appliance, we highly recommend an Instant Pot Ultra, which offers a slow cooker function among many others.
- Mixing Bowls: You’ll need at least two good-sized mixing bowls. One for whisking the egg white and vanilla, and another for combining the sugars, spices, and eventually coating the nuts.
- Wooden Spoon or Sturdy Spatula: A durable wooden spoon or a heat-resistant rubber spatula is essential for thoroughly stirring the ingredients together and, most importantly, for regularly stirring the almonds as they cook in the slow cooker. This consistent stirring is key to preventing sticking and ensuring even coating.
- Half Sheet Baking Pans: You’ll need one or two half sheet baking pans to spread the cooked nuts onto for cooling. Spreading them thinly and evenly is crucial for achieving that perfect crisp texture and preventing them from clumping together.
- Lining for Baking Pans: To prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze, we recommend lining your baking sheets. A silicone mat is an excellent reusable option, but parchment paper works just as well if you prefer disposable liners.
How to Make Crockpot Cinnamon Almonds
Making these slow cooker cinnamon almonds is surprisingly simple, yet yields results that taste like they came from a gourmet candy shop. Follow these steps for perfect, crunchy, spiced almonds every time:
Coating the Nuts
The first crucial step is to create the delicious coating that will cling to each almond. Begin by whisking the egg white and vanilla extract together in a medium-sized bowl until the mixture becomes light and frothy. This frothy texture is important as it helps the mixture evenly adhere to the almonds. Next, add the raw, whole almonds to the frothy egg white mixture and stir thoroughly, ensuring every single almond is nicely coated. In a separate bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt. Once the almonds are coated in the egg white mixture, transfer them to the bowl with the sugar and spice blend. Toss everything together until the nuts are uniformly coated with the sweet, aromatic mixture.
The Slow Cooking Process
Before adding your beautifully coated almonds, it’s vital to prepare your slow cooker. Liberally spray the interior of your slow cooker insert with a nonstick cooking spray. This crucial step will significantly help prevent the almonds from sticking to the sides and bottom as they cook and the sugars caramelize. Transfer the coated almond mixture into the prepared slow cooker and set it to the LOW heat setting. Cook the almonds, covered, for a total of 3 hours. The key to even cooking and preventing clumping is to stir the nuts thoroughly every half hour. This ensures the sugar coating melts, adheres, and hardens evenly around each almond. During the final hour of cooking, add 1/4 cup of water to the slow cooker and stir well. This addition of water helps to loosen any coating that might have stuck and integrates all the flavors beautifully, ensuring a perfect candied finish.
Cooling for Crunchiness
Once the 3 hours of slow cooking are complete, carefully transfer the hot almonds from the slow cooker onto a lined baking sheet. The most important step here is to spread the nuts out into a single layer as much as possible, separating any clumps using a spoon or spatula. This prevents them from sticking together as they cool and ensures that each almond develops a distinct, satisfying crunch. If you have a large batch, don’t hesitate to use two separate sheet pans to give them ample space. Allow them to cool completely at room temperature. As they cool, the sugar coating will harden, transforming them into the crunchy, sweet, and spiced delights you’ve been waiting for.
Pro Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Almonds
Achieving perfectly coated, crunchy cinnamon almonds is easy with these helpful tips:
- Experiment with Other Nuts: While almonds are fantastic, don’t be afraid to shake things up! This slow cooker recipe works wonderfully with other types of nuts. Pecans, walnuts, or even cashews can be substituted for a delightful variation. Just ensure they are raw and unsalted.
- Cool Them Completely: This might be the most critical tip for achieving maximum crunch. It’s tempting to dive in when they’re still warm, but resist! The trick is to let them cool completely and fully set on the baking sheet before transferring them to any container or bag. This allows the sugary coating to harden properly, keeping them beautifully crunchy.
- Do Not Skip the Stirring: The regular stirring every half hour during the slow cooking process is non-negotiable. It prevents the almonds from clumping together into one giant, inedible glob and ensures that the sugar coating is evenly distributed and cooked onto each individual nut. Set a timer to remind yourself!
- Use Nonstick Spray Generously: Don’t be shy with the cooking spray on your slow cooker insert. A good coating will save you a lot of hassle during cleanup and prevent the precious cinnamon sugar from welding itself to the pot.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Slow Cooker: While this recipe is for 3 cups of almonds, if you decide to double the batch, consider using two slow cookers or doing it in separate batches. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and more sticking.
- Watch for Sticking: Even with nonstick spray and stirring, some bits might stick. Use a sturdy wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula to scrape the bottom and sides gently each time you stir.
More festive holiday sweets to try: Chai Snickerdoodle Cookies | Gingerbread Christmas Crack Candy | Christmas Shortbread Cookies | Italian Rainbow Cookies
Why is Egg White Essential in This Recipe?
The egg white in this recipe plays a crucial role in achieving the characteristic crunchy coating that makes these cinnamon almonds so delightful. It acts as a powerful binder, helping the sugar and spice mixture adhere uniformly to the surface of each almond. As the egg white cooks, it creates a crisp, delicate shell around the nut, which is then further fortified by the caramelizing sugars. Without the egg white, the sugar and cinnamon mixture would be much less likely to stick effectively, resulting in a less consistent coating and a less satisfying texture.
Can I Substitute the Egg White?
Yes, if you have dietary restrictions or simply don’t consume eggs, you can absolutely swap out the egg white! A fantastic plant-based alternative is **aquafaba**, which is the liquid from a can of chickpeas. For every 1 large egg white, you will need to use 3 tablespoons of aquafaba. Whisk it just as you would an egg white until it becomes frothy, then proceed with the recipe as directed. The aquafaba will provide a similar binding property, ensuring your cinnamon almonds still achieve that wonderful, crunchy coating.
Need more inspiration for holiday cooking/baking? Check out my holiday recipes page!
What to Serve with Crockpot Cinnamon Almonds
These slow cooker cinnamon almonds are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a multitude of ways. They are naturally fantastic as a standalone snack, perfect for satisfying a sweet craving. Beyond that, here are some delightful serving suggestions:
- Party Snack: Simply place bowls of these alluring nuts around the house when hosting gatherings. Their inviting aroma and delicious taste make them an instant crowd-pleaser.
- Dessert Spread Addition: Incorporate them into your holiday dessert spread. They add a lovely texture and spiced sweetness that complements cakes, cookies, and other festive treats.
- Charcuterie Board Enhancement: Elevate your charcuterie or cheese board by adding a small bowl of these candied almonds. Their sweetness and crunch pair wonderfully with savory cheeses, cured meats, and fresh fruits.
- Homemade Gift: Package them beautifully in mason jars or decorative bags. Tie a festive ribbon around the rim, and you have an easy, thoughtful, and much-appreciated homemade gift or host/hostess present.
- Alongside Other Snacks: If you’re looking to offer a savory counterpoint, consider pairing them with another unique snack mix. We love this curried nut mix, which offers a different flavor profile that stands out during the holiday season.
Storage and Gifting Ideas
Once you’ve perfected your batch of crockpot cinnamon almonds, proper storage ensures they stay fresh and crunchy, whether for personal enjoyment or for sharing with loved ones.
How to Store Crockpot Cinnamon Almonds
- Room Temperature Storage: After they have cooled completely, transfer the almonds to airtight containers or resealable bags. Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity. Stored this way, they will maintain their freshness and crunch for up to 1 1/2 to 2 weeks.
- Freezing for Longer Shelf Life: These almonds freeze beautifully, making them perfect for preparing ahead of time! Once completely cooled, place them in a freezer-safe airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them to room temperature.
Gifting These Delicious Nuts
Slow cooker cinnamon almonds make an absolutely fantastic and much-loved homemade gift during the holidays or any special occasion. Their charming presentation and irresistible flavor are always a hit!
- Mason Jars: This is a classic and elegant way to present them. Fill clear mason jars with the cooled almonds and screw on the lid. For a festive touch, tie a colorful ribbon, twine, or a small gift tag around the rim of the jar.
- Cellophane Bags: For a more casual or larger quantity gift, use clear cellophane bags. Fill them with almonds, tie them off with a decorative twist tie or ribbon, and perhaps add a custom label.
- Host Gift: If you’re attending a holiday party or dinner, a jar or bag of these cinnamon almonds makes an incredibly easy, thoughtful, and appreciated host gift. It’s a personal touch that shows you care.
Creative Ways to Use These Cinnamon Almonds
While it’s incredibly tempting (and perfectly acceptable!) to simply enjoy these cinnamon almonds by the handful, their versatility extends far beyond just snacking. Here are some of our favorite creative ways to incorporate them into other dishes, adding a delightful crunch and a burst of spiced sweetness:
- Salad Topping: Add a gourmet touch to your salads! Whether left whole or roughly chopped, these almonds provide a wonderful texture and a sweet-savory contrast to fresh greens, goat cheese, or roasted vegetables.
- Breakfast Booster: Elevate your morning meal. Sprinkle them over overnight oats, Greek yogurt, or even hot oatmeal for a delicious and satisfying crunch that makes breakfast feel like a treat.
- Ice Cream Topping: A simple yet brilliant addition! Roughly chop them and sprinkle generously over your favorite store-bought or homemade ice cream for an instant upgrade. The combination of cold, creamy ice cream and warm, spiced nuts is divine.
- Roasted Vegetable Garnish: Take your side dishes to the next level. Chop the cinnamon almonds finely and sprinkle them over roasted carrots, beets, or sweet potatoes just before serving. The sweetness and spice complement the natural flavors of the vegetables beautifully.
- Baking Ingredient: Crush them and use them as a unique topping or mix-in for muffins, quick breads, or even as a crunchy crust for a cheesecake.
Finally, if you make these crockpot cinnamon almonds, please be sure to give this recipe a rating or leave a comment! We absolutely love to hear when you all try our recipes, and we genuinely take the time to respond to every single comment. Feel free to drop any questions you might have below too!
Oh, and be sure to tag us on Instagram if you make the recipe! Seeing these recipes come to life in your homes is truly our favorite thing to see – it really means the world to us!
Crockpot Cinnamon Almonds Recipe Card
10 minutes
3 hours
60 minutes
4 hours 10 minutes
3 cups
Equipment
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Half Sheet Pan (or two)
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Wooden Spoon & Scraper
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Slow Cooker or Instant Pot DUO
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 cups light brown sugar
- 3 1/2 Tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/8 tsp fine kosher salt
- 1 large egg white
- 2 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 3 cups raw, whole, unsalted almonds
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
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In a medium bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir well to mix all the dry ingredients evenly. Set this mixture aside.
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In a separate, larger bowl, whisk the egg white and vanilla extract together until the mixture becomes light and frothy. Add the raw almonds to this frothy egg white mixture and stir thoroughly until all the nuts are well coated. Then, add the reserved cinnamon-sugar mixture to the coated nuts and toss until every almond is evenly covered.
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Generously spray the interior of your slow cooker bowl with nonstick cooking spray. Carefully transfer the coated almond mixture into the prepared slow cooker and turn the heat setting to LOW.
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Cook the almonds, covered, for a total of 3 hours. It is crucial to stir the nuts well every half hour to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking and coating. During the last hour of cooking, add the 1/4 cup of water and stir everything together once more.
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Once cooked, immediately spread the hot almonds out onto a lined baking sheet (or two, if needed) to cool. Use a spoon or spatula to separate the nuts, ensuring they don’t form large clumps. Allow them to cool completely at room temperature until the coating hardens and they become crispy. Once cool, serve immediately or store them in an airtight container for up to 1 1/2 weeks.
Holiday
Dessert, Snack