Cocoa butter is a natural fat extracted from cocoa beans. It has a rich, creamy texture and a subtle chocolate flavor, making it an excellent ingredient for various recipes, including candies and baked goods. Additionally, cocoa butter helps to preserve the crunchiness of nuts, making it a perfect choice for candied almonds.

To make your own cocoa butter candied almonds, you will need the following ingredients:

1 cup raw almonds
2 tablespoons cocoa butter
1/2 cup sugar (granulated or brown)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Optional: 1 tablespoon cocoa powder for extra chocolate flavor

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your almonds will roast evenly and develop a nice crunch.

Spread the raw almonds on a baking sheet in a single layer. Toast them in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are lightly golden and fragrant. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

While the almonds are toasting, melt the cocoa butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir gently until completely melted, then remove from heat and mix in the sugar, vanilla extract, and sea salt. If you're using cocoa powder, add it at this stage for an extra chocolatey flavor.

Once the almonds are toasted, remove them from the oven and immediately pour the melted cocoa butter mixture over them. Toss the almonds well to ensure they are evenly coated.

Return the coated almonds to the baking sheet and spread them out in a single layer. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking. The almonds should become crispy and the coating should harden.

Once the almonds are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet. This will help them become crunchy. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Experiment with Flavors: You can customize your candied almonds by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or even a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Use Different Nuts: While almonds are delicious, feel free to experiment with other nuts such as pecans or walnuts.
Gift Idea: Package your candied almonds in decorative jars or bags tied with a ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift.

Making candied almonds with cocoa butter is a simple yet rewarding process that results in a delicious treat. The combination of the rich cocoa butter flavor and the crunchy texture of the almonds makes for a snack that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them yourself or share them as gifts, these cocoa butter candied almonds are sure to impress. Try this recipe today and indulge in the delightful world of homemade candies!

• 1 cup raw almonds
• 2 tablespoons cocoa butter
• 1/2 cup sugar (granulated or brown)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• Optional: 1 tablespoon cocoa powder for extra chocolate flavor.