The Surprising History of Caramelised Nuts (2024)

If you're like me, you can't turn down a good bag of caramelised nuts. They're the perfect balance of sweet and savoury, and they always hit the spot. But have you ever wondered where they came from? Turns out, caramelised nuts have a long and delicious history that stretches back centuries. Read on to learn all about it!


Pralines, Gebrannte Mandeln, Chou Chou, Garrapiñadas - no matter what you call them, caramelised nuts are a delicious treat enjoyed by people all over the world. Pralines originated in France, where they were originally made with almonds coated in sugar and spices. Today, pralines can be made with a variety of different nuts, including hazelnuts, cashews, and pecans. Caramelised almonds are a popular snack in Germany, often eaten during Oktoberfest celebrations and Weihnachtsmarkt (Christmas Markets). In Spain, caramelised nuts are known as Garrapiñadas, and they are typically made with almonds or peanuts. No matter what they're called or where they're from, one thing is for sure - caramelised nuts are sure to please any sweet tooth!

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Praline - or Caramelised Almond is a delicious treat that has a long and interesting history. The origin dates back to 1636, when Clement Lassagne, chef to César Gabriel de Choiseul, the French Duke of Praslin, decided to combine almonds and caramel. Lassagne named this creation after his master, Praslin, which then became widely known as praline. There are many versions of this story, but what we do know for sure is that praline was originally made with caramelised almonds. Today, praline is enjoyed all over the world in a variety of forms. Whether you enjoy it as a sweet snack or use it to add an extra bit of indulgence to your baking, there’s no denying that praline is a timeless treat.


Caramelised nuts, the popular confection, are a perennial favourite with sweet-toothed Londoners. And yet, despite its ubiquity, there's a good chance many have never actually eaten one. Caramelised nuts are notoriously difficult to make at home, and even the most determined amateur cook will likely end up with a sticky, burnt mess. Fortunately, there's no need to go to the trouble of making your own praline when there are so many excellent shops selling fine confectionery. For the best praline in London, head to Pralineur on South Kensington's Old Brompton Road. This unassuming little shop sells some of the finest caramelised almonds, cashews and hazelnuts you're ever likely to taste. So next time you're in the mood for something sweet, forget about those boring old chocolate bars and treat yourself to a delicious praline instead.


Gebrannte Mandeln are a traditional treat sold on German Christmas markets. They are caramelised almonds that have been roasted and then coated in a hard candy shell. The result is a crunchy, sweet treat that is perfect for enjoying while strolling through the market. Gebrannte Mandeln are a popular gift to give to friends and family, and they are also a tasty addition to any holiday party. If you want to try something new this holiday season, be sure to check out Gebrannte Mandeln!

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If you've ever been to Paris, you've probably heard the cry of "Chou Chou!" emanating from one of the many nut sellers around the city. These caramelised nuts are a beloved treat, enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. Whether you're enjoying them on the beach or in the park, they make for a delicious and satisfying snack. Plus, they're relatively inexpensive, so you can indulge without breaking the bank. So next time you're in Paris, be sure to try some of these caramelised nuts - you won't be disappointed!


There's something about caramelised nuts that just makes them irresistible. Maybe it's the combination of the sweetness and the crunch, or maybe it's the fact that they're just so darn good. Whatever the reason, caramelised nuts are a traditional treat in Spain, and you'll find them being made on the streets of Madrid. The nuts are cooked in a caramel, which gives them their signature sweet and crunchy texture.


Caramelised nuts are a foodie staple, and nowhere are they more important than in Nelson, NZ. The Nutman has been caramelising nuts at the Nelson Market for years, and his signature scent is impossible to miss. As you stroll through the market, you'll hear his unmistakable cries and follow your nose to his stall. The caramelised nuts are always fresh and perfectly made, making them the perfect snack for any time of day. Whether you're looking for a quick energy boost or a tasty treat to share with friends, the Nutman's caramelised nuts are sure to hit the spot.

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Here at Nutty D’Lites, we take caramelised nuts seriously. We know our product hasa rich heritage, and it’s one that we’re proud to be a part of. Our small team is passionate about making the best possible caramelised nuts for our customers, and we think you’ll love them as much as we do. What Caramelised nuts are your favourite? Let us know in the comments below!

The Surprising History of Caramelised Nuts (2024)

FAQs

What is the origin of caramelized nuts? ›

The origin dates back to 1636, when Clement Lassagne, chef to César Gabriel de Choiseul, the French Duke of Praslin, decided to combine almonds and caramel. Lassagne named this creation after his master, Praslin, which then became widely known as praline.

What are caramelized almonds called? ›

Candied almonds or Praline are nuts (usually almonds) of French origin, that have been cooked in a special way, so they end up coated in browned, crunchy sugar.

What is the history of Christmas nuts? ›

Hazelnuts (and nuts in general) were ancient symbols of good luck and fertility which were given new Christian meanings and remain a common part of Christmas traditions even today. Physically characterized by three distinct parts, nuts were interpreted as a sign of the Trinity.

What are sugar coated nuts called? ›

Candied Nuts (Groundnut Sweet or Sugar Peanuts)

These are highly addictive peanuts with a crunchy sugar-coated layer for the perfect on-the-go snack. They're fancy yet affordable, so they're even a great gift.

Why is it called caramelizing? ›

Carbohydrates, the sugars found in starches and in fruits and vegetables, turn golden brown and form new flavors when exposed to high temperatures. This transformation is called caramelization, and indeed it is literally the process that causes sugar to turn into caramel.

How long do caramelised nuts keep? ›

Stir constantly, allowing the mix to caramelise and turn brown and making sure all the nuts are well coated. Pour the nuts onto some greaseproof paper. Don't worry if they are stuck together, as they can be separated when cool. Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

What do 5 almonds mean at a wedding? ›

"Italians traditionally package these candied almonds in bunches of five to represent wishes of health, wealth, happiness, fertility, and longevity," she says. For some, the five almonds also symbolize a number that can't be divided into two, just like the bond formed by a newly married couple.

Are caramelised almonds healthy? ›

With high levels of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, Bateel's Caramelised Almonds are a delicious treat. The crunchy, nutty interior is enhanced with a delicate caramel coating perfectly combining texture and flavour. Indulge in a gourmet delicacy, rich in healthy fats, fiber and protein.

Why do Italians give sugared almonds at weddings? ›

They have been given away at Italian weddings since the 14th century. You'll usually find five of the candied almonds wrapped in tulle bundles to represent five blessings for the couple: health, wealth, fertility, happiness, and longevity.

What is the oldest Christmas candy? ›

One of the oldest traditional candies eaten for special occasions like Christmas is marzipan. This almond-based confection dates back centuries, with origins in Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. Each region has its own uses for the sweet.

What popular snack was originally a Christmas treat? ›

Animal Crackers Were Originally a Christmas Treat – Animal crackers were first introduced aro0und Christmastime in 1902. the string on the ox was originally intended to be used to hang the boxes on Christmas trees.

Why do people put nuts in stockings? ›

Whether it's pagan or Christian, the idea of nuts bringing good luck at Christmastime appears to have stuck. In German folklore, the tradition of giving a wooden nutcracker in the form of a soldier or some other fierce authority figure was a way of keeping loved ones safe from harm.

What are sugar coated almonds called? ›

Sugared almonds have exported themselves across all corners of the globe, with the exploring of the “New World”, they became incredibly popular and known as “Jordan Almonds”.

What do Americans call sugared almonds? ›

In their most classic form, they are exactly the candies known as sugared almonds, "Jordan Almonds" or dragees. The generic name "confetti" has nothing to do with the French and English word "confetti", bits of colored paper, translated into Italian as "coriandoli".

What is a sugar nut slang? ›

Urban Dictionary - Sugar Nuts - A "pet name" of an adored or term of endearment for a significant other who has deliciously suckable, irresistible balls. -

Where did French burnt peanuts come from? ›

What is the origin of French burnt peanuts? No one seems to know it for sure. The origin of the French Burnt Peanut is definitely spotty. One of the possibilities is that it might have been an American adaptation of the German burnt almonds, named French for a more refined branding.

Where did candied almonds originate? ›

While the name might suggest that Jordan almonds come from the Jordan Valley, most modern scholars believe the sweet actually originated in Rome. In 177 BC, confectioner Julius Dragatus first invented honey-coated almonds and seeds. He named the new treat “dragati” for his namesake.

What is the history of candied pecans? ›

Legend has it that the praline was introduced to the south by French settlers in the seventeenth century. Back then, the original treat featured almonds coated in sugar, however, pecans quickly replaced almonds due to their abundant availability in the south.

What is the cultural origin of nuts? ›

All of this evidence shows that nuts have been a staple in the human diet for since the beginnings of history. The oldest walnut remains were discovered in Iraq, and they are believed to be from 50,000 B.C. The Greeks and Romans were fond of the walnut, and they were considered food for Gods by early Romans.

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