Easy Crockpot Cinnamon Almonds: Your Go-To Slow Cooker Recipe for Holiday Snacking & Gifting

Crockpot Cinnamon Almonds are the holiday snack everyone craves, effortlessly made in your slow cooker. These sweet, spiced nuts are a fantastic treat to set out for gatherings, or they can be beautifully packaged as homemade gifts for friends and family. This recipe yields approximately 3 cups of deliciousness, perfect for sharing or savoring yourself.

Note: This is an updated and significantly expanded version of the original recipe post from December 21, 2012. We’ve taken your favorite slow cooker cinnamon almond recipe and enhanced it to include more comprehensive information, invaluable tips and tricks for perfect results, and a slightly tweaked ingredient list that makes these candied nuts even more delicious than before! Get ready to make the best slow cooker cinnamon almonds you’ve ever tasted.

About These Crockpot Cinnamon Almonds: Your New Favorite Holiday Treat

Prepare yourself for a truly irresistible snack that will quickly become a cherished tradition in your home. These crockpot cinnamon almonds are notoriously addictive, and for good reason! There’s something magical about the sweet, warm, and spicy aroma that fills your kitchen as they slowly cook to perfection. Imagine the delightful crunch and the burst of cinnamon-sugar flavor with every bite – it’s pure heaven, especially during the festive holiday season. This recipe brings the beloved taste of roasted nuts from a bustling holiday market right into your kitchen with minimal effort.

For years, I believed that these incredibly delicious candied almonds were exclusively found at outdoor festivals or holiday craft fairs, always served warm and fresh in those inviting paper cones, seemingly vanishing before I’d walked ten feet. But now, discovering how remarkably simple they are to make right at home in a slow cooker? It’s been an absolute revelation! My willpower is constantly tested, as I find myself reaching for “just one more” handful throughout the day. Seriously, having these on hand is both a blessing and a delicious, dangerous curse – a delightful challenge for anyone with a sweet tooth!

The true beauty of this crockpot cinnamon almond recipe lies in its simplicity and the minimal hands-on time required. The actual preparation, where you coat the almonds, is super fast, meaning you can get them started without much fuss, even on a busy day. While they do require a little tending—a quick stir every half hour or so throughout the cooking time—the effort is truly negligible compared to the incredible reward. Beyond the heavenly taste of the finished almonds, the glorious scent of cinnamon and sugar wafting through your entire house is an experience in itself, instantly setting a cozy, comforting, and wonderfully festive mood. These slow cooker cinnamon almonds aren’t just a snack; they’re an aromatic invitation to holiday cheer and deliciousness.

Ingredients for Perfect Crockpot Cinnamon Almonds

Crafting these delectable cinnamon almonds requires just a handful of common pantry staples. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect crunchy, sweet, and spiced coating that makes these nuts so irresistible:

• Granulated Sugar: This forms the primary base of our sweet coating, providing essential sweetness and contributing significantly to the delightful crisp texture that characterizes candied nuts. It also helps to create the glazed finish.
• Brown Sugar: The recipe calls for a balanced combination of granulated and brown sugar. Brown sugar, particularly light brown sugar, adds a wonderful depth of flavor with its subtle molasses notes and helps achieve a richer, more complex sweetness. If dark brown sugar is all you have, it will still work beautifully, imparting a slightly deeper, more caramel-like taste to your almonds.
• Cinnamon: As the star spice of this recipe, using a high-quality ground cinnamon is paramount for the best flavor and aroma. The warm, inviting scent alone is enough to get you into the holiday spirit, and its taste is truly the heart of these slow cooker cinnamon almonds.
• Salt: A small but mighty amount of fine kosher salt is crucial here. It acts as a flavor enhancer, beautifully balancing the intense sweetness of the sugars and preventing the almonds from tasting overly cloying. This touch of salt brings out all the other flavors and adds a subtle savory counterpoint.
• Egg White: This might seem like an unexpected ingredient for a nut recipe, but it is absolutely essential for achieving that signature crunchy, shell-like coating. The egg white acts as a powerful binder, helping the sugar and spice mixture adhere perfectly and evenly to each almond. When whisked until frothy, it creates a light, airy base for the coating that transforms into a wonderfully crisp texture once cooked.
• Pure Vanilla Extract: Always reach for pure vanilla extract over imitation for the richest, most authentic flavor. A good quality vanilla, such as Nielsen Massey’s Madagascar Bourbon Pure Vanilla Extract, truly elevates the overall taste profile of these nuts, adding a warm and complex aroma. If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade vanilla extract is even better!
• Whole Almonds: For the best results in terms of both texture and coating, it is imperative to use whole, raw, and unsalted almonds. Sliced, halved, or slivered almonds won’t provide the same satisfying crunch or allow for an even coating. Using unsalted almonds is also vital, as any added salt from pre-salted nuts would disrupt the delicate sweet and savory balance that makes this recipe so perfect.
• Water: Just a small amount of tap water is incorporated in the final stage of cooking. This strategic addition helps to gently dissolve any remaining sugar crystals, ensuring a smooth, even glaze on the almonds and preventing them from sticking together excessively. It contributes significantly to that perfectly shiny, candied finish.

Essential Equipment for This Recipe: Tools for Sweet Success

Making these slow cooker cinnamon almonds is incredibly straightforward, but having the right tools makes the process even smoother and ensures perfect results every time. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

• Slow Cooker, Crockpot, or Instant Pot Ultra: This is, of course, the primary appliance for this recipe! A slow cooker is ideal because it provides a consistent, low heat environment over several hours, which is key to achieving that perfectly candied and crunchy texture without burning the delicate sugars. If you’re considering a new kitchen appliance, many modern Instant Pot models come equipped with an excellent slow cooker function that works perfectly for this recipe. Choose a size appropriate for your batch, typically a 6-quart model works well for this recipe quantity.
• Mixing Bowls: You’ll need at least two medium to large-sized mixing bowls. One will be used for whisking the egg white mixture until it’s frothy and coating the almonds in it. The second bowl is for combining your dry sugar and spice blend before adding it to the almonds. This organization helps keep the process efficient and clean.
• Wooden Spoon or Sturdy Spatula: This tool is essential not only for stirring everything together initially but, more importantly, for regularly stirring the almonds as they cook in the slow cooker. A wooden spoon is often preferred as it won’t scratch the non-stick coating of your slow cooker insert and is sturdy enough to handle the increasingly sticky mixture as it cooks. Consistent stirring is key, so a reliable utensil is a must.
• Nonstick Cooking Spray: Absolutely crucial for preparing your slow cooker insert. A generous and thorough coating of nonstick spray will prevent the delicious, sugary almonds from sticking to the bottom and sides of the pot during the long cooking process. This not only ensures all your almonds get properly coated but also makes cleanup significantly easier afterward.
• Half Sheet Baking Pan (or two): After the almonds have finished cooking, you’ll need a large, flat surface to spread out the hot, sticky mixture for cooling. Using one or even two half sheet baking pans ensures they have enough space to spread out in a single, thin layer. This prevents them from clumping together excessively and allows them to cool and crisp up properly, resulting in individual, perfectly crunchy nuts.
• Silicone Mat or Parchment Paper: To line your baking sheets. This is a non-negotiable step to prevent the hot, candied almonds from sticking stubbornly to the pan as they cool and harden. A silicone mat is an excellent, reusable option that provides a superior nonstick surface, while parchment paper offers a convenient, disposable alternative. Either will ensure easy removal of your finished cinnamon almonds.

How to Make Crockpot Cinnamon Almonds: A Step-by-Step Guide to Perfection

Making these irresistible cinnamon almonds in your slow cooker is surprisingly easy, requiring minimal hands-on effort for maximum flavor and an incredible aroma that will fill your home. Just follow these simple steps for perfectly candied results:

1. Prepare the Nuts for Coating

The first crucial step is to create the perfect sticky base for your cinnamon-sugar coating. In one medium-sized bowl, combine the large egg white and pure vanilla extract. Whisk them vigorously with a fork or a small whisk until the mixture becomes light, foamy, and frothy. This frothy texture is essential, as it helps create a better surface for the sugars to adhere to, resulting in a more even and crisp coating. Once frothy, add your raw, whole, and unsalted almonds to this mixture and stir them thoroughly until every single almond is completely coated in the egg white mixture. In a separate, larger bowl, whisk together your granulated sugar, light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of fine kosher salt. This is your dry coating mix, vibrant with spice. Transfer the egg white-coated almonds into this fragrant sugar and spice mixture and toss diligently with a spoon or your hands (wearing gloves is recommended for sticky jobs!). Ensure that the almonds are fully enveloped and evenly covered in the cinnamon-sugar blend. This initial coating sets the stage for the delicious caramelization that will occur in the slow cooker.

2. Slow Cook to Perfection

Before adding your coated almonds, generously spray the entire interior of your slow cooker insert with a nonstick cooking spray. This step is absolutely critical, as the sugary mixture can become very sticky during cooking, and proper greasing will prevent it from adhering stubbornly to the sides and bottom, making both cooking and cleanup much simpler. Pour the well-coated almond mixture evenly into the prepared slow cooker. Set your slow cooker to the LOW heat setting and cook for a total of 3 hours. During this entire cooking time, it’s vital to stir the nuts thoroughly every half hour. This regular stirring is non-negotiable as it prevents the almonds from clumping together into a solid mass, ensures even cooking and caramelization, and helps develop that consistent, crunchy coating on all sides. Neglecting to stir can easily result in a burnt bottom layer and unevenly cooked nuts. In the final hour of cooking (after 2 hours of stirring), add the specified quarter cup of water to the slow cooker and stir it in well. This addition of water helps to dissolve any remaining sugar crystals, creating a smoother, glossier candy coating and ensuring the almonds reach their peak candied perfection.

3. Cool for Crispiness

Once the almonds have finished cooking and are glistening with their sweet, caramelized coating, it’s time to transfer them quickly. Immediately dump or spread the hot almonds out onto one or two baking sheets that have been thoroughly lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. The key here is to spread them out as much as possible, ideally in a single, thin layer, and if necessary, use two baking sheets to avoid overcrowding. Take a few moments to gently separate any almonds that are sticking together using a spoon or spatula; they will be quite hot and sticky at this stage. This separation step is crucial because as the almonds cool, their sugar coating will harden and become wonderfully crisp. If they cool in giant clumps, they will be difficult to break apart and might not achieve the desired individual crunch. Allow them to cool completely and undisturbed at room temperature for at least an hour, or until they are firm to the touch. Once fully cooled, they will be perfectly crunchy, separated, and ready to enjoy or store.

Tips for Slow Cooker Cinnamon Almond Success

Achieving perfectly candied cinnamon almonds is simple, but these extra tips and tricks will ensure your batch is absolutely outstanding every time:

• Experiment with Other Nuts: While almonds are fantastic, don’t be afraid to get creative and use this recipe as a base for other delicious nuts! You can easily substitute almonds with pecans, walnuts, or even cashews for a different, equally delightful flavor and texture profile. Just be aware that the cooking time might vary slightly depending on the size and density of the chosen nut, so keep a closer eye on them during the last hour. A mix of different nuts could also create a wonderful holiday assortment!
• Cool Them Completely for Maximum Crunch: This is arguably one of the most important steps for achieving that signature, satisfyingly crunchy coating. Hot candied nuts will be soft and chewy; it’s during the cooling process that the sugar coating crystallizes and hardens, creating that irresistible crisp texture. Resist the urge to bag them or put them in containers before they are entirely cool and firm to the touch. Spreading them out in a thin, single layer on a lined baking sheet helps them cool faster and more evenly, ensuring every almond achieves its maximum crunch potential. Patience is a virtue here!
• Don’t Skip the Stirring Steps: The regular stirring every half hour during the slow cooking process is absolutely non-negotiable. This crucial step prevents the sugar from scorching and burning at the bottom of the slow cooker, ensures that all the almonds are evenly coated in the sweet mixture, and prevents them from fusing into one giant, solid, and basically inedible block. Consistent stirring guarantees a uniform, delicious, and perfectly separated coating on every single nut.
• Avoid Overcrowding Your Slow Cooker: While it might be tempting to double the recipe or fill your slow cooker to the brim, resist the urge. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking, slower caramelization, and a much higher chance of the nuts sticking together. For optimal results and even cooking, it’s always better to make the recipe in two separate batches if you need a larger quantity.
• Adjust Spices to Your Liking: The given amount of cinnamon provides a wonderfully warm and festive flavor that is universally loved. However, feel free to adjust it to your personal preference. For an extra kick of warmth, you could add a pinch of ground nutmeg or allspice. If you’re feeling adventurous, a tiny amount of cayenne pepper can add a surprising and delightful sweet-spicy twist!
• Know When They’re Done: The almonds are done cooking when the sugar coating appears mostly dry and crystallized, clinging firmly to the nuts. They will have a beautiful golden-brown, caramelized color. While they will still be slightly sticky and warm to the touch when removed from the slow cooker, they will crisp up significantly as they cool completely. Trust the cooling process to deliver the final perfect texture.

More festive holiday sweets to try: Chai Snickerdoodle Cookies | Gingerbread Christmas Crack Candy | Christmas Shortbread Cookies | Italian Rainbow Cookies

Why Egg White is Key in This Recipe for Crunchy Candied Almonds

Many people often wonder about the inclusion of egg white in candied nut recipes like this one, as it might seem like an unusual ingredient. However, the egg white is not there for flavor, but rather for its incredible functional properties, which are absolutely crucial for achieving that perfect, crisp, and even coating we all desire. The egg white acts as a powerful emulsifier and binder, creating a light, frothy base that helps the sugar and spice mixture adhere uniformly and effectively to each individual almond. As the almonds slowly cook in the crockpot, the proteins in the egg white coagulate and help to form a delicate, crisp, and beautifully caramelized shell around each nut. Without this essential binder, the sugar coating would be far more likely to separate, become grainy, or simply fall off the nuts, leaving you with a less-than-perfectly candied result. It’s truly the secret ingredient for creating that irresistible fine, crunchy coating that makes these slow cooker cinnamon almonds so addictive.

Can I Substitute the Egg White in This Recipe?

Absolutely! If you have dietary restrictions, an egg allergy, or simply prefer not to use eggs, you can easily swap out the egg white for a fantastic plant-based alternative: aquafaba. Aquafaba is the starchy liquid typically found in a can of chickpeas (or other legumes) and has a remarkable ability to mimic egg whites in terms of its binding and frothing properties. For this specific recipe, you will need to use 3 tablespoons of aquafaba to effectively replace 1 large egg white. Simply whisk the aquafaba with the vanilla extract until it becomes light and frothy, just as you would with the egg white, and then proceed with the recipe instructions as directed. The results will be similarly delicious, beautifully coated, and perfectly crisp, ensuring that everyone can enjoy these wonderful slow cooker cinnamon almonds, regardless of dietary preferences!

Need more inspiration for holiday cooking/baking? Check out my holiday recipes page for a wealth of festive ideas!

Serving Suggestions for Crockpot Cinnamon Almonds

These slow cooker cinnamon almonds are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a myriad of ways, making them perfect for any occasion, especially during the festive season. Their irresistible flavor and satisfying crunch make them a welcome addition to almost any spread:

• As a Standalone Party Snack: This is their most classic use! Simply place bowls of these alluring nuts around your gathering, whether it’s a casual get-together or a formal holiday party. Their irresistible aroma and crunchy texture make them an instant crowd-pleaser that guests won’t be able to resist, disappearing quickly!
• Enhance Your Dessert Spread: Elevate your holiday dessert table by adding these candied almonds alongside cookies, cakes, pies, and other sweet treats. They offer a delightful textural contrast and a burst of spiced sweetness that complements richer desserts beautifully.
• Gourmet Charcuterie or Cheese Board Addition: Take your charcuterie or cheese board to the next level of sophistication by including a small bowl of these sweet and spiced nuts. Their sweetness pairs wonderfully with savory cheeses, cured meats, and fresh or dried fruits, creating a balanced and exciting flavor combination that guests will adore.
• Everyday Snacking: Keep them readily available! Store them in attractive mason jars or other airtight containers strategically placed around your home. They are the perfect wholesome yet indulgent treat for satisfying those sweet and crunchy cravings throughout the day, providing a quick energy boost.
• With Coffee or Tea: Enjoy a small handful of these aromatic almonds with your morning coffee, afternoon tea, or even a cozy mug of hot cocoa. They offer a delightful pick-me-up and a moment of sweet indulgence.
• Pair with Other Snack Mixes: If you’re looking to offer a variety of snacks, these sweet cinnamon almonds pair beautifully with a savory counterpoint. Consider a unique and flavorful snack mix like a curried nut mix. The contrasting flavors and textures will keep your guests delighted and coming back for more!

Storage, Gifting, and Freezing Your Cinnamon Almonds

Once you’ve made a batch of these glorious slow cooker cinnamon almonds, you’ll want to know how to best store them to maintain their freshness and crunch, or how to prepare them for thoughtful gifting and longer-term storage.

• Storage: To keep your homemade cinnamon almonds fresh and wonderfully crunchy, it is absolutely essential that they have cooled completely to room temperature before storing them. Once fully cooled and hardened, place them in airtight containers, such as glass jars with tight-fitting lids, or sturdy resealable bags. Store them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or any sources of humidity, which can make them soft and sticky. When stored properly under these conditions, they will maintain their deliciousness and crisp texture for up to 1 1/2 weeks.
• Gifting: These homemade slow cooker cinnamon almonds make for a truly thoughtful, impressive, and deeply appreciated gift during the holidays or for any special occasion. Their homemade charm makes them feel extra special. Package them beautifully in clear cellophane bags tied with festive ribbons, or artfully layer them into decorative mason jars. A simple yet elegant ribbon tied around the rim of a mason jar, perhaps with a handmade gift tag, adds a personal and elegant touch that elevates the gift. They are also a wonderful, easy, and always appreciated host gift idea when visiting friends and family!
• Freezing: Yes, you can absolutely freeze these delicious almonds! Freezing is a fantastic option if you want to make a large batch ahead of time to spread out your holiday baking efforts, or simply to extend their shelf life for future enjoyment. Once again, ensure they are completely cooled and hardened before freezing. Transfer them to a freezer-safe airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months without compromising quality. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them to room temperature on the countertop. They’ll retain their delightful crunch and flavor as if freshly made!

Creative Ways to Use These Cinnamon Almonds (Beyond Snacking!)

While shoveling handfuls of these delicious crockpot cinnamon almonds straight into your mouth is a perfectly acceptable and highly enjoyable method of consumption, their sweet, crunchy, and spiced profile makes them an incredibly versatile ingredient to elevate a variety of dishes. Don’t limit their potential!

• Elevated Salad Topping: Add a gourmet touch to your salads! You can use them whole for a satisfying crunch, or chop them finely and sprinkle them over green salads, especially those featuring fruits like apples or pears, tangy goat cheese, or a vibrant balsamic vinaigrette. They provide a delightful sweet and savory contrast that will surprise and please your palate.
• Breakfast Booster: Transform your morning meal from ordinary to extraordinary! Generously sprinkle chopped or whole cinnamon almonds over your morning oatmeal, overnight oats, creamy Greek yogurt, or even your favorite granola. They add an extra layer of flavor, texture, and a touch of indulgent spice to start your day on a delicious note.
• Decadent Ice Cream Topping: Take your favorite store-bought or homemade ice cream to the next level of indulgence. Lightly crush the almonds and sprinkle them generously over scoops of vanilla, coffee, or even rich chocolate ice cream. For an extra special treat, consider incorporating finely chopped almonds directly into a homemade ice cream recipe for a textural delight.
• Elegant Dessert Garnish: Use these beautiful almonds as an elegant and flavorful garnish for various desserts. Sprinkle them over pies, tarts, creamy puddings, or even hot chocolate and lattes for added flavor, texture, and visual appeal. They also work wonders on apple crisps or crumbles.
• Savory Dish Accent: Don’t limit these versatile nuts to just sweet applications! Chopped cinnamon almonds can add an unexpected and wonderfully delicious crunch to certain savory dishes. Try sprinkling them over roasted root vegetables like carrots or beets for a unique sweet and earthy combination. They can also provide an interesting textural and flavor contrast when added to some chicken or pork dishes, particularly those with a hint of sweetness.
• Baking Ingredient: Incorporate chopped cinnamon almonds into your baking repertoire. Fold them into muffin batter, quick breads, or even your favorite cookie dough for an extra layer of unique flavor and satisfying texture that will make your baked goods stand out.

Finally, if you make these incredible crockpot cinnamon almonds, please be sure to give this recipe a rating or leave a comment below! I absolutely love to hear about your culinary successes and genuinely take the time to respond to every single comment. Feel free to drop any questions you might have as well – I’m always happy to help! Oh, and be sure to tag me on Instagram if you share your creations! Seeing these recipes come to life in your homes is truly my favorite thing, and it means the world to me. Happy cooking!

Crockpot Cinnamon Almonds

These sweet and spiced almonds are an amazing snack to share during parties and perfect for gifting! A truly irresistible holiday treat made effortlessly in your slow cooker.

Prep Time:

10 minutes
mins

Cook Time:

3 hours
hrs

Additional Time:

10 minutes
mins

Total Time:

3 hours
hrs
20 minutes
mins

Servings:

3
cups

4.7 from 88 votes

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Equipment

• Half Sheet Pan
• Wooden Spoon & Scraper
• Instant Pot DUO (or other Slow Cooker)
• Instant Pot Max (for Slow Cooker Function)

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 cups light brown sugar, packed
• 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 whole, raw, unsalted almonds
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, thoroughly stir together the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and fine kosher salt. Ensure it’s well combined and set this fragrant spice mixture aside.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk the large egg white and pure vanilla extract vigorously until the mixture becomes light and frothy. Add the whole, raw, unsalted almonds to this frothy mixture and stir until each almond is completely coated. Next, add the reserved sugar and cinnamon mixture to the coated nuts and toss thoroughly until all the almonds are evenly covered in the sweet spices.
3. Generously spray the entire interior of your slow cooker bowl with nonstick cooking spray. Transfer the almond mixture into the prepared slow cooker and set the heat to the LOW setting.
4. Cook the almonds, covered, for 3 hours. It is crucial to stir the nuts well every half hour (approximately 6 times over the 3 hours) to ensure even cooking, prevent sticking, and promote uniform caramelization. During the final hour of cooking, add the 1/4 cup of water and stir it in thoroughly. This helps create a smooth, glazed coating and prevents excessive clumping.
5. Once cooked, immediately spread the hot almonds out onto one or two baking sheets lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Ensure they are in a single layer and gently separate any clumps using a spoon or spatula to prevent them from fusing together as they cool. Allow the almonds to cool completely at room temperature (this can take at least an hour) until they are firm and crunchy. Once cool, they are ready to serve or store in an airtight container for up to 1 1/2 weeks.

Cuisine:
Holiday, American

Category:
Dessert, Snack, Gift