I baked this Vegan Candied Walnuts for my niece’s birthday party last weekend. The walnuts stayed sweet with a caramel finish, and my aunt liked them.
With a simple combination of maple syrup and spices, you can create delicious caramelized walnuts that not only satisfy your sweet tooth but are also entirely plant-based, making them an ideal vegan dessert.
Sweet Vegan Candied Walnuts Recipe

This recipe features walnuts coated in a sweet, crisp caramelized finish using maple syrup and vanilla. The preparation is quick and easy, taking only about 25 minutes to make, and it yields approximately 2 cups of candied walnuts.
Ingredients
- 2 cups walnuts, halved
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional for extra richness)
Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the walnuts, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, salt, and coconut oil (if using). Stir until the walnuts are evenly coated.
- Spread on Baking Sheet: Spread the coated walnuts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the walnuts are golden brown and fragrant.
- Cool: Remove from the oven and allow the walnuts to cool completely on the baking sheet, as they will continue to harden.
- Serve: Enjoy the crisp vegan candied walnuts as a snack, or use them as a topping for desserts, salads, or yogurt.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 2 cups
- Calories: 200kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
I store the candied in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. The stay sweet, and I let them come to room temperature before serving.
