These are highly addictive peanuts with a crunchy sugar-coated layer for the perfect on-the-go snack. They're fancy yet affordable, so they're even a great gift.
Bake shelled peanuts in the oven at 325℉/163℃ on a cookie pan in a single layer for 15-20 minutes. Stir the peanuts, occasionally rotating the tray for even roasting. Remove and set aside.
Method 1
Heat water in a 12-inch skillet over medium heat, add sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract (or vanilla bean), and bring to a boil. Add the roasted peanuts.
Turn up the heat to medium-high to high, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is grainy and crystallized, 15 to 18 minutes. Do not caramelize the sugar.
Remove from heat, and spread the peanuts on a cookie sheet or tray. Let them cool and serve.
Method 2
Preheat the oven to 325℉/163℃.
In a 12-inch skillet over medium heat, combine sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and water.
Bring to a boil, and stir until the sugar is dissolved. Add peanuts and cook while stirring over medium heat until peanuts are evenly coated and crystallized. (Do not let it caramelize.)
Remove the peanuts and spread them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake in the oven for 20 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes for even roasting. Remove from the oven and let them cool.
Notes
You can also roast the peanuts on a stovetop in a skillet on medium heat, occasionally stirring, for about 5-10 minutes or until the peanuts become aromatic. They will be crunchy once cooled.
Add about a teaspoon of salt for better flavor. You'll love the perfect combination of sweet and salty flavors.
You can always replace the peanuts with your favorite nuts, such as almonds, pecan, walnut, cashew, macadamia, and hazelnut.
Please remember that the nutritional information is a rough estimate and can vary significantly based on the products used in the recipe.