Christmastime without eggnog would be simply nuts. Nuts that taste like eggnog, however, and that’s how you get into the spirit!

Eat, Drink, and Be Merry

For yet another year, I’ve been denied the pleasure of creating a new Nog-Off, with only one fresh contender of note. I will not, however, be denied my nog. For someone who’s never had the original egg- and dairy-based beverage, it has a hold on me like few other foods. And yes, though it is a drink, I think it’s substantial enough to qualify as a food too. That much is certainly true when you factor in a generous handful of crisp, freshly toasted nuts.

Nut Nog or Nog Nuts?

Nut nog is nothing new, of course, with some of the most popular recipes beginning with reliable old raw cashews, blended into creamy submission. What I’m talking about is a snack that straddles the line with dessert, could be served as a party starter or wrapped up as a gift at the end of the night, and has all the hallmarks of eggnog.

Aromatic nutmeg, bourbon, eggy kala namak, a touch of umami nutritional yeast, and lightly caramelized sugar all swirl together in a heady glaze that lacquers any combination of pecans, almonds, cashews, walnuts, pistachios, and so forth, that your heart desires. In fact, I even snuck in some pepitas for a subtly seasonal addition, so I’m calling seeds fair game, despite the official title.

Use Your Coconut

Coconut milk powder is a specialty ingredient that gives the mixture an additional richness, seeming to melt like freshly fallen snow, while creating a lightly frosted appearance. It’s entirely optional, so don’t fret if you can’t find it. Alternately, you can replace the alcohol with full-fat coconut cream, adding in a small splash of bourbon flavoring at the end if desired.

As the holidays descend and the festivities unfold, don’t let the absence of traditional eggnog dim your spirits. Embrace the joy of eggnog candied nuts; a sweet and savory blend that captures the essence of the season in every crunchy bite. Whether you’re sharing it at a gathering, gifting it to loved ones, or hoarding it all for yourself, this novel approach is sure to add cheer to the occasion, all without raising a glass.

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Yield: Makes 2 Cups (8 Servings)

Eggnog Candied Nuts

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Translate the classic Christmastime drink into a snackable dessert, and you'll have crunchy, munchable Eggnog Candied Nuts on hand! Dairy-free, eggless, and of course vegan, it captures the essence of the holiday in one sweet and lightly spiced bite.

Prep Time 2 minutes

Cook Time 8 minutes

Total Time 2 minutes

Ingredients

• 3/4 Cup Granulated Sugar
• 2 Tablespoons Bourbon or Brandy
• 1 Tablespoon Powdered Coconut Milk (Optional)
• 1 Teaspoon Nutritional Yeast
• 1/2 Teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
• 1/4 Teaspoon Ground Nutmeg
• 1/2 Teaspoon Kala Namak (Black Salt)
• 2 Cups Toasted Mixed Nuts (and/or Seeds)
• 1 Teaspoon Vanilla Extract

Instructions

1. Place a piece of parchment paper on a baking sheet and set aside.
   
2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, bourbon or brandy, powdered coconut milk (if using), nutritional yeast, cinnamon, nutmeg, and kala namak. Stir to combine, then keep your spatula out of it while it comes to a boil.
   
3. Once the sugar has fully dissolved and the mixture is bubbling, add the nuts, mixing gently to incorporate. Continue to cook, stirring periodically, until the sugar syrup has thickened to completely coat the nuts. Add the vanilla, mix well, and turn off the heat.
   
4. Working quickly, transfer the candied nuts to your prepared sheet pan. Use your spatula to spread them out and separate them as best you can, unless you'd prefer bigger clusters.
   
5. Let cool completely, until fully set. Break up any chunks as desired and enjoy!
   

Notes

Candied nuts can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Do not store them in the fridge or freezer, or the sugar coating will become soft and gooey.

Recommended Products

Please note that some of the links above are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase after clicking through the link. I have experience with all of these companies and I recommend them because they are helpful and useful, not because of the small commissions I make if you decide to buy something through my links.

• 
  Edward & Sons, Coconut Milk Powder, 5.25 oz (150 g)
• 
  The Spice Lab, India Black Kala Namak, 4 oz (113 g)
• 
  KAL, Nutritional, Yeast Flakes, Unsweetened, 12 oz (340 g)

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

8

Serving Size:

1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 289Total Fat: 18gSaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 119mgCarbohydrates: 28gFiber: 3gSugar: 20gProtein: 6g

All nutritional information presented within this site are intended for informational purposes only. I am not a certified nutritionist and any nutritional information on BitterSweetBlog.com should only be used as a general guideline. This information is provided as a courtesy and there is no guarantee that the information will be completely accurate. Even though I try to provide accurate nutritional information to the best of my ability, these figures should still be considered estimations.