This maple walnuts recipe is one of those small-but-mighty staples we keep in rotation for charcuterie boards, salad toppings, trail mix blends, and even French toast. Made with simple ingredients and ready in under 30 minutes, these candied walnuts hit that irresistible sweet, salty, and slightly spicy note. Whether prepping a holiday season gift or needing a delicious snack, this recipe delivers.
As a professional recipe tester, I’m all about sharing easy recipes that are so simple, they’re really more of a suggestion. So, once you’ve made the recipe a few times, you’ll have it memorized and can customize it to your liking. Maybe add vanilla extract and cinnamon one time, or lots of black pepper next time for a spicy, savory snack.
This recipe is more straightforward than other glazed walnut recipes because you don’t need to turn on the oven, and it’s all done in minutes. The amount of maple syrup is a suggestion, so feel free to add more if you’d prefer a sweeter flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Maple Walnuts Recipe
These maple walnuts are equal parts crunchy and crave-worthy, with the perfect balance of maple flavor, natural sweetness from the maple syrup, and a gentle kick from ground ginger and black pepper. They’re made without any refined sugar, naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, and they’re an easy treat that can be made vegan with pure maple syrup. Store them in glass jars in a cool, dry place, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days, making them perfect for healthy lunches, gifting, or snacking throughout the week.
We were inspired by the walnuts grown in Paso Robles at Manzanita Manor Organics—a family farm producing 100% organic, dry-farmed Hartley and Franquette varieties. Their heirloom trees yield walnuts with a light blond hue, crunchy texture, and creamy interior and ideal for this delicious treat.
Recipe Ingredients
To make this recipe for maple walnuts, you only need a few pantry staples:
- Walnut halves: Walnuts bring a rich, buttery flavor and a satisfying crunch; they’re the show’s star. You can also use different nuts or any tree nuts for variation.
- Maple syrup or honey: Delivers that signature maple flavor and glossy finish. Choose maple syrup for an easy maple vegan version.
- Toasted sesame seeds: Adds nutty flavor and a crunchy topping element.
- Ground ginger: Provides a warm, spiced flavor that balances the sweetness.
- Kosher salt: Brings all the flavors together and cuts the sweetness.
- Freshly ground black pepper (for garnish): Adds a subtle heat for a savory contrast.
- Flaky sea salt (for garnish): Gives that final flourish of salty crunch.
How to Make This Recipe
Start by toasting the walnuts in a dry stainless-steel pan to enhance their nutty aroma. Add the maple syrup, ginger, and salt, then stir until the nuts are evenly coated and glossy. Spread the mixture in a single layer on parchment paper or a silicone baking mat, and add another touch of salt to balance the sweetness of the syrup.
Let cool completely, about 15 minutes. These maple walnuts will firm up as they cool and develop that perfectly crisp bite. You could use a different nut like pistachios, almonds, or pecans, but I like the combination of creamy, nutty, and tannic flavors that walnuts lend.
What to Serve With This
These maple walnuts are a great addition to just about anything: pile them on a charcuterie or cheese board as an appetizer, toss them into a crunchy romaine salad, sprinkle them over crispy Brussels sprouts, stir them into your favorite trail mix, or use them to top your next bowl of ice cream.
They’re also a perfect addition to oatmeal or yogurt bowls and make tasty treats when paired with chocolate or dried fruit. Wrap them in glass jars during the holiday season—they make a great gift!
California-Inspired Recipes
Want to get a taste of the Golden State at home? Cook up these recipes inspired by the Golden State:
California Road Trip Travel Guide
Thinking about taking a road trip in the Golden State? You’ll want to check out our California Road Trip Travel Guide for travel tips, itinerary ideas, and more California-inspired recipes.
Get A Personalized Travel Itinerary
Maple Walnuts Recipe
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 cups walnut halves (about 8 ounces)
- 1/3 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Maldon sea salt or other flaky sea salt
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Put the walnuts in a dry, large skillet over medium-low heat and cook, stirring regularly, until they are toasty, about 3 minutes.
- Add the maple syrup or honey, ground ginger, and kosher salt, immediately stir to coat the nuts, then remove from the heat. Turn the nuts onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and space them out so they don't touch each other.
- Let the maple walnuts sit until cool, about 15 minutes. They can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
