When the craving for something sweet strikes, I often find myself wandering towards the pantry, drawn by the nostalgic memory of a delightful treat my grandmother used to make: Crunchy Sesame Candy with Peanuts. The moment you take a bite, the satisfying crunch mingles with rich, nutty flavors, evoking warmth and familiarity. Best of all, this simple recipe comes together using just four ingredients in under 30 minutes!
As someone who appreciates both the ease and the joys of homemade desserts, this candy stands out as a delightful addition to my collection—it’s vegan and gluten-free, making it perfect for everyone at the table. One bite, and you’ll be swept away by the combination of chewy maltose and crispy sesame, feeling both comforted and invigorated. Join me as we whip up this traditional Chinese sweet, and let me share the magic of creating something so special, with a touch of sweetness that comes straight from the heart!
Why is Crunchy Sesame Candy with Peanuts so special?
Simple, delightful process: This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, requiring only four ingredients and less than 30 minutes.
Nostalgic flavor: With its harmony of chewy maltose and crunchy peanuts, it evokes cherished memories of traditional Chinese sweets.
Diet-friendly: It’s vegan and gluten-free, ensuring everyone can indulge without worries.
Versatile options: Feel free to swap in your favorite nuts or seeds for a personalized twist.
Perfect for sharing: Cut into bite-sized pieces, it’s ideal for snack time, parties, or as a sweet gift.
Health-conscious indulgence: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this treat is a wholesome way to satisfy your sweet tooth!
Crunchy Sesame Candy with Peanuts Ingredients
For the Candy Mixture
• Peanuts – Provides invaluable crunch and protein; opt for roasted unsalted for the best flavor.
• White Sugar – Delivers the essential sweetness and structure; coconut sugar is a great substitution for a healthier twist.
• Maltose – This sticky ingredient adds the chewy texture you crave; remember, honey can work but may change the texture slightly.
• Water – Essential for dissolving sugar and maltose; no need for substitutions here!
For the Sesame Coating
• Black and White Sesame Seeds – Contributes irresistible flavor and appealing crunch; feel free to use just one type if that’s your preference.
Now you’re all set to start making this Crunchy Sesame Candy with Peanuts!
How to Make Crunchy Sesame Candy with Peanuts
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Toast Peanuts: Begin by heating a non-stick pan over low heat. Roast the raw peanuts, stirring occasionally until they’re fragrant and lightly golden, about 5-7 minutes. Once toasted, allow them to cool slightly, then remove the skins by rubbing them with your hands.
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Toast Sesame Seeds: In the same pan, add black and white sesame seeds. Toast them on low heat until they release a nutty aroma, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
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Prepare Sugar Mixture: Combine white sugar, maltose, and water in a clean non-stick pan. Heat this mixture over low heat while stirring continuously, until it reaches a beautiful caramel color, which should take around 8-10 minutes. Make sure to keep stirring to avoid crystallization.
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Water Test: To check for the right consistency, drop a small amount of the mixture into a bowl of cold water. It should form a soft ball when rolled between your fingers—this is your cue that it’s ready!
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Combine Ingredients: Quickly mix in the toasted peanuts and sesame seeds into your caramelized sugar mixture. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated; the warm mixture will stick beautifully!
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Shape Candy: Transfer the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking tray. Using another piece of parchment, flatten and compress the mixture evenly until it’s about ½ inch thick.
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Cut Candy: While the candy is still warm, carefully cut it into rectangular pieces with a sharp knife. This step is crucial; if you wait too long, the candy will harden!
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Cool and Store: Let the pieces cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid refrigeration, as that might make the candy too hard.
Optional: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled pieces for an extra indulgent touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Crunchy Sesame Candy with Peanuts
Room Temperature: Store your candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain its delightful crunch and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the pieces. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place in an airtight freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: If you’d like to enjoy the candy again after freezing, simply let it thaw at room temperature for a couple of hours, and it will regain its original texture.
Avoid Refrigeration: Don’t store the crunchy sesame candy with peanuts in the fridge, as the moisture and cold can make it excessively hard and lose that delightful crunch.
Crunchy Sesame Candy with Peanuts Variations
Feel free to take this delightful recipe and put your own spin on it for even more deliciousness!
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Nut Swaps: Replace peanuts with almonds or cashews for a different flavor profile. The nuttiness will still shine through beautifully.
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Seed Mix: Mix in flax or pumpkin seeds alongside the sesame seeds for added nutritional benefits and a fun texture twist. They bring a delightful crunch that complements this traditional candy.
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Salted Touch: A sprinkle of sea salt on top can enhance the sweetness and give an exciting contrast to the candy. Just a pinch can elevate the flavor!
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Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some dark chocolate and drizzle it over the cut candy pieces for a decadent addition. The richness of chocolate pairs perfectly with the nutty flavor of the candy.
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Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne or chili powder into the sugar mixture for a sweet and spicy twist. This unexpected heat will wake up your taste buds!
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Maple Magic: Substitute maltose with maple syrup for an alternative sweetener that adds an earthy sweetness. It will gently transform the flavor profile while remaining wonderfully chewy.
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Coconut Flakes: Incorporate unsweetened shredded coconut into the mixture for a tropical twist. It’ll add a chewy texture and a delightful flavor reminiscent of a beach getaway.
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Herb Infusion: Consider a hint of fresh herbs like mint or basil as a garnish after cutting. It offers an intriguing layer of freshness that contrasts beautifully with the candy’s sweetness.
Make Ahead Options
These Crunchy Sesame Candy with Peanuts are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the sugar mixture and toast the peanuts and sesame seeds up to 24 hours in advance, helping to save valuable time during busy days. Simply store the toasted ingredients in airtight containers at room temperature, and for the sugar mixture, let it cool completely before covering it. When you’re ready to make the candy, just combine the prepped components and finish by shaping and cutting the candy as directed. This way, you can enjoy fresh, homemade treats that are just as delicious and satisfying, without the last-minute rush!
Expert Tips for Crunchy Sesame Candy with Peanuts
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Monitor Temperature: Keep a close eye while heating the sugar mixture; exceeding the soft ball stage will result in overly hard candy that’s difficult to eat.
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Use Parchment Paper: Prevent sticking by lining your tray with parchment paper and placing another sheet on top while compressing the candy mixture.
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Work Quickly: This candy hardens fast! Be sure to shape and cut it while it’s still warm to ensure perfect rectangular pieces.
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Experiment Freely: Feel free to swap peanuts for your favorite nuts or seeds for a fun twist on the classic crunchy sesame candy with peanuts.
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Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for optimal freshness. Avoid refrigerating, as it can cause the candy to become excessively hard.
What to Serve with Crunchy Sesame Candy with Peanuts?
Creating the perfect dining experience doesn’t just stop at dessert; it’s an invitation to explore harmonious pairings that elevate every bite.
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Green Tea: The light, earthy tones of green tea beautifully cut through the sweetness of the candy, creating a balanced flavor profile that refreshes the palate.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a juicy and refreshing contrast to the crunchy texture of the candy, enhancing the overall delightful experience.
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Coconut Sorbet: This creamy and dairy-free treat offers a tropical twist and coolness that complements the nutty candy, making it a refreshing end to any meal.
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Sesame Noodles: Pairing savory sesame noodles alongside this candy creates an intriguing sweet-and-salty harmony, showcasing the versatile use of sesame in various dishes.
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Almond Milk: A glass of chilled almond milk can provide a smooth, nutty backdrop to the candy, enhancing the experience of its rich flavors while keeping it dairy-free.
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Lemonade: The tartness of freshly squeezed lemonade serves as a bright contrast that perfectly balances the sweetness of the crunchy sesame candy, making it ideal for warm days.
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Mocha Coffee: The rich, bold flavors of a mocha coffee lend a sophisticated touch to the sweetness, creating a wonderful combination to enjoy during a cozy afternoon break.
With these delightful pairings, your Crunchy Sesame Candy with Peanuts transforms into a splendid occasion that appeals to all senses. Enjoy the journey of flavors!
Crunchy Sesame Candy with Peanuts Recipe FAQs
What type of peanuts should I use for the Crunchy Sesame Candy with Peanuts?
I recommend using roasted unsalted peanuts for the best flavor and texture. If you can find them, they bring a delightful nuttiness that complements the other ingredients beautifully. If you prefer, feel free to experiment with other nuts such as almonds or cashews for a variation on this classic treat.
How should I store my Crunchy Sesame Candy with Peanuts?
You can store your candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. I often find that it retains its delightful crunch this way! Make sure it’s completely cooled before placing it in the container to avoid any moisture buildup.
Can I freeze the Crunchy Sesame Candy with Peanuts?
Absolutely! To freeze, individually wrap each piece in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight freezer bag. This way, they can last for up to 3 months without losing their flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just let the candy thaw at room temperature for a couple of hours; it should regain its original texture.
What should I do if my sugar mixture is too hard?
If your sugar mixture crystallizes and becomes too hard, it is likely that it exceeded the soft ball stage during cooking. To troubleshoot this, gently reheat the mixture with a little water (about a tablespoon at a time), stirring constantly until it softens again. Keep a close eye on the temperature to prevent this from happening in the first place!
Is this recipe suitable for people with nut allergies?
Since this crunchy sesame candy contains peanuts, it is not suitable for individuals with peanut allergies. However, if you’d like a nut-free option, you can skip the peanuts and experiment with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds, keeping in mind that it will change the flavor profile.
How do I test the sugar mixture for the right consistency?
The best way to check if your sugar mixture has reached the ideal consistency is the water test. Drop a small amount of the hot mixture into a bowl of cold water – if it forms a soft ball that holds its shape when rolled between your fingers, you’re good to go! If it’s too soft, continue cooking for a little longer.
Delicious Crunchy Sesame Candy with Peanuts Made Easy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Toast Peanuts: Heat a non-stick pan over low heat. Roast the peanuts for 5-7 minutes until fragrant and golden. Cool slightly and remove skins.
- Toast Sesame Seeds: Add sesame seeds to the same pan and toast for about 3-4 minutes until aromatic. Avoid burning.
- Prepare Sugar Mixture: Combine white sugar, maltose, and water in a clean pan. Heat on low, stirring continuously for 8-10 minutes until caramel color is achieved.
- Water Test: Drop a small amount into cold water; it should form a soft ball when rolled between fingers.
- Combine Ingredients: Mix in toasted peanuts and sesame seeds into the syrup mixture, ensuring even coating.
- Shape Candy: Transfer onto a parchment-lined tray and flatten to about ½ inch thick using another piece of parchment.
- Cut Candy: While still warm, cut into rectangular pieces immediately to prevent hardening.
- Cool and Store: Let cool completely and store in an airtight container at room temperature.