Hey friends!
Feeling festive? I’ve got a treat for you that’s sure to warm your heart.
Today, I’m sharing my recipe for sugar roasted chestnuts.
These little bites are crunchy on the outside and sweet on the inside.
They’re perfect for cozy nights or holiday gatherings.
Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be hooked! Let’s dive in!
Ingredient Substitutions
Chestnuts can be replaced with pecans or walnuts for a different nutty flavor and texture. These alternatives are more widely available and offer similar nutritional benefits. Adjust roasting time as needed, as chestnuts typically require longer cooking. Brown sugar can be substituted with coconut sugar or a sugar-free sweetener like erythritol for those watching their sugar intake. Use the same amount of coconut sugar, but reduce the quantity if using erythritol, as it’s sweeter. Butter can be replaced with coconut oil for a dairy-free option. Use the same amount, but note that coconut oil may impart a slight coconut flavor to the dish. These substitutions maintain the overall sweet and nutty profile of the recipe while accommodating various dietary preferences.
| Preparation Time | 10-15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 15-25 minutes |
| Total Time | 25-40 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Easy |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 400-450
- Protein: 4-6 g
- Fat: 15-20 g
- Carbohydrates: 70-80 g
Ingredients
- 2 cups blanched chestnuts (or raw, then blanched)
- 1/3 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1 1/2 tbsp butter (I like Land O’Lakes unsalted butter)
- 1/3 cup dark brown sugar (adds a richer, molasses-like flavor)
- 1/8 tsp sea salt
Step 1: Prepare the Syrup Base
In a pot, combine the water, brown sugar, butter, salt, and cinnamon.
Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar and melt the butter completely.
This will form a sweet and aromatic base for the candied chestnuts.
Step 2: Add and Coat the Chestnuts
Once the syrup begins to boil, add the cooked and peeled chestnuts to the pot.
Gently stir the chestnuts to ensure they are well-coated with the syrup, taking care not to break them apart as they may be delicate.
Step 3: Reduce the Syrup
Allow the mixture to continue boiling uncovered.
Keep an eye on the pot and stir occasionally as the liquid reduces.
You want the syrup to thicken and coat the chestnuts nicely without burning.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Once most of the liquid has reduced and the chestnuts are beautifully glazed, remove the pot from the heat.
Transfer the candied chestnuts to a serving dish.
Let them cool slightly before serving, then enjoy this sweet and nutty treat!
