Classic Sherried Walnuts

📜 Collection: Gail’s Collection | ✍️ Attribution: Unknown | 📂 Category: Desserts A classic candied nut recipe featuring whole walnuts in a rich, creamy, and spiced glaze made with sherry, honey, and brown sugar. These elegant treats offer a perfect balance of warmth and sweetness.


Prep TimeCook TimeInactive / Chill TimeYield / Servings
10 mins15 mins30 minsApprox. 3 cups

🔪 Key Equipment

  • heavy-bottomed saucepan
  • candy thermometer
  • wooden spoon
  • baking sheet
  • waxed paper
  • forks

Ingredients

MeasurementsIngredientsPrep / Notes
3 CupsWalnutswhole
3/4 CupBrown Sugarpacked
3/4 CupSugarwhite
1/2 CupSherryCalifornia style
1/4 CupHoneyliquid
1/4 TeaspoonCinnamonground
1/4 TeaspoonNutmegground
DashSaltfine

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Glaze

  1. Line a baking sheet with waxed paper.
  2. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the 3/4 cup brown sugar, 3/4 cup sugar, 1/4 cup honey, dash of salt, and 1/2 cup sherry.
  3. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugars dissolve.

Step 2: Boil to Soft-Ball Stage

  1. Continue to boil the mixture, without stirring, until it reaches the soft-ball stage (235-245°F or 112-118°C) on a candy thermometer.

Step 3: Coat and Cool

  1. Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately stir in the 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, and 3 cups walnuts until the nuts are thoroughly coated.
  2. Begin to beat the mixture with a wooden spoon as it cools. Continue beating until the clear syrup turns opaque and creamy.
  3. Quickly pour the coated nuts onto the prepared waxed paper and use two forks to separate them into individual pieces or small clusters before the coating hardens completely.

💡 Make-Ahead & Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.


Original Recipe Scan

Original Handwritten Card