French burnt peanuts are a popular candy known for their sweet, crunchy, and slightly spicy flavor. These peanuts have a cinnamon-flavored coating and a sugar-based candy shell that gives them a distinctive burnt appearance. Despite the name, there is no actual burning involved in the process. The term likely refers to the appearance of the dark, caramelized coating.

To make the French burnt peanuts, you will need shelled peanuts, sugar, cinnamon, cayenne, salt, and water. Bake the mixture at 325°F (163°C) until the candies are ready. That’s all! The nutritional value of candied peanuts for standard serving size (1 ounce or 28 grams) includes 160 calories, 4 g of protein, 10 g of fat, and 8 g of carbohydrates. In addition, you get red hot candies that are a sweet and crunchy treat with a distinctive coating. Here’s a simple recipe for making French burnt peanuts at home:

Recipe Ingredients

• 2 cups raw shelled peanuts
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

French Burnt Peanuts Recipe Instructions

1. The first step is to preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Mix the raw peanuts with water in a bowl until they are thoroughly moistened.
3. In a separate bowl, combine sugar, cinnamon, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt. Stir your mixture well to ensure an even distribution of the spices.
4. Roll the moistened peanuts in the sugar and spice mixture until they are well-coated.
5. Spread your coated peanuts on a baking sheet. You can add an extra layer of parchment paper, making sure they are in a single layer for even cooking.
6. Place your sheet in the hot oven and bake the nuts for about 20-25 minutes, stirring the peanuts every 5-7 minutes to prevent sticking and ensure an even coating.
7. Once the peanuts have turned golden brown and the sugar coating has caramelized, remove them from the oven. Leave them to cool on the baking sheet. They will harden as they cool.
8. Once thoroughly cooled, break apart any peanuts that may have stuck together during baking.
9. Store the French burnt peanuts in an airtight container at room temperature. You can enjoy the candies as a standalone snack or add to desserts like ice cream or cookies.

Wrap Up

These homemade French burnt peanuts are a delightful combination of sweet, spicy, and crunchy. You can combine the candies with other nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and perhaps a few chocolate or yogurt-covered goodies to create a delicious trail mix. Some people love them sprinkled over their favorite ice cream for an added crunch and a burst of sweet and spicy flavor. I always recommend adjusting the spices, including the cayenne pepper, to suit your heat preference. Check out more posts on peanut treats. Enjoy your homemade candied peanuts!