Vanilla Maple Walnuts (Sweet, Toasted & Irresistible)

Name: Homemade Chili: The Ultimate Comfort Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 6–8 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 1 green bell pepper, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes; 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat); 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity); ½ cup beef broth or water

Sarah Smith
4 days ago
2 min read

Updated: 8 hours ago

Pile of glazed walnuts with a dusting of sugar on a wooden board. Cinnamon sticks, vanilla, and maple syrup bottle in the background. Warm lighting.

These Vanilla Maple Walnuts are lightly caramelized, sweet, and full of warm maple flavor. They’re wonderful sprinkled over oatmeal, salads, yogurt, or cozy desserts like Pumpkin Spice Bread. If you're a fan of seasonal treats such as Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge, these sweet walnuts will quickly become a go-to homemade snack.

Recipe Card

Prep Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 10 minutes Total Time: 15 minutes Servings: 8

Ingredients

2 cups walnuts
⅓ cup maple syrup
1 tablespoon butter
½ teaspoon vanilla
Pinch salt

Instructions

1. Heat pan

Warm a skillet over medium heat.

2. Add ingredients

Add walnuts, maple syrup, butter, vanilla, and salt.

3. Cook

Stir 5–8 minutes until the syrup thickens and coats the nuts.

4. Cool

Spread on parchment to cool and harden.

Conclusion

Once these Vanilla Maple Walnuts cool and turn beautifully glossy, they make a sweet, warm, maple-kissed treat that works for snacking or topping just about anything. Add them to yogurt, oatmeal, salads, or enjoy them with Classic Hummingbird Cake or Caramel Apple Bread Pudding for a cozy, homemade treat board.

Vanilla Maple Walnuts – FAQ

Q: What kind of walnuts work best for this recipe?

A: Use raw, unsalted walnut halves for the best flavor and texture. They toast beautifully and absorb the vanilla and maple flavors perfectly.

Q: Can I use maple-flavored syrup instead of pure maple syrup?

A: Pure maple syrup is highly recommended because it caramelizes better and gives a richer flavor. Maple-flavored pancake syrup will work, but the taste will be sweeter and less natural.

Q: How do I keep the walnuts from burning in the oven?

A: Stir the walnuts halfway through baking and keep the oven temperature moderate (usually 300–325°F). Nuts can burn fast, so watch them closely during the last few minutes.

Q: Why are my walnuts sticky after baking?

A: They may need a few more minutes in the oven. As maple syrup cooks, it dries into a glossy coating. If too sticky, return them to the oven for 3–5 minutes until set.

Q: Can I make these walnuts ahead of time?

A: Yes! They store extremely well. Make a big batch and keep them in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

Q: How do I make the vanilla flavor stronger?

A: Use pure vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste. For an extra boost, add a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of vanilla after baking.

Q: Can I use a different type of nut?

A: Absolutely! Pecans, almonds, cashews, or mixed nuts work beautifully with the same maple-vanilla mixture.

Q: Can I make these walnuts without sugar?

A: Yes. The recipe can be made with only pure maple syrup if you prefer a naturally sweetened version. They will still develop a glossy, flavorful coating.

Q: Are vanilla maple walnuts good for gifting?

A: They are perfect for gifting! Package them in mason jars, tins, or small treat bags. Add a ribbon for a cozy, homemade holiday gift.

Q: What can I serve these walnuts with?

A: Enjoy them as a snack, sprinkle over salads, oatmeal, yogurt, baked brie, desserts, ice cream, or charcuterie boards.