Jordan almonds are more than just a sweet treat; they’re a classic symbol of celebration, widely cherished at weddings, parties, and special occasions. These candy-coated almonds bring together the delightful crunch of roasted nuts with the sugary goodness of their colorful outer shell. Whether you’re planning an elegant wedding favor, a vibrant baby shower snack, or just want to enjoy a sweet, healthy treat, Jordan almonds are the perfect addition to any festivity.
In this recipe, you’ll learn how to prepare Jordan almonds right in your kitchen. Not only is this process simple, but it also allows for a customizable, festive twist on a traditional favorite. From choosing your preferred colors to experimenting with flavor variations, this recipe is an excellent activity for home cooks, baking enthusiasts, and anyone looking to add a personal touch to their celebrations. Plus, Jordan almonds are naturally gluten-free, and can be made vegan-friendly with just a few modifications, making them suitable for a variety of dietary needs.
So, if you’re ready to impress your guests or create a delightful edible gift, follow along with our detailed guide to achieve Jordan almonds perfection!
Why Choose Jordan Almonds?
Jordan almonds aren’t just a tasty confection; they hold a deep history in celebrations and gifting. Often associated with weddings, these treats symbolize wishes for a sweet life filled with health, wealth, happiness, fertility, and longevity. But beyond their symbolic significance, they are beloved for their delightful crunch and versatility.
Easy to Make and Customize
Despite their elegant appearance, Jordan almonds are surprisingly easy to make. You can create them at home with just a few simple ingredients, and the process allows for plenty of creativity. Whether you prefer pastel hues for a springtime event or bold, vibrant colors for a holiday gathering, the choice is yours. Plus, you can easily adjust the recipe to fit various themes and occasions by tweaking the colors or even infusing the coating with different flavors.
Healthy Snack with a Sweet Twist
Almonds themselves are a nutritious powerhouse. Packed with protein, fiber, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin E and magnesium, they make for a heart-healthy snack. Coating them in a thin layer of sugar adds a bit of indulgence without going overboard on calories, making Jordan almonds a better option than many heavily processed candies.
Diet-Friendly with Simple Substitutions
One of the best things about Jordan almonds is that they can easily fit into a variety of diets. With a few small adjustments, you can make them vegan by using plant-based sugar or substitute sugar-free alternatives for those watching their sugar intake. Their naturally gluten-free nature also makes them suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, ensuring that everyone at your event can enjoy them.
Ingredients Overview
What You’ll Need for Jordan Almonds
Creating the perfect Jordan almonds requires just a few basic ingredients, which you likely already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 200 g raw almonds (blanched for a smooth surface)
- 500 g granulated sugar (you can opt for organic or plant-based sugar if preferred)
- 125 ml water
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (or almond extract for a deeper flavor)
- Food coloring (choose any colors that match your occasion or theme)
- Parchment paper (for drying and setting the almonds)
- Cooking thermometer (to monitor the sugar temperature accurately)
Substitutions to Customize Jordan Almonds
One of the beauties of Jordan almonds is how versatile they are. If you’re looking to customize the recipe for different dietary needs or preferences, here are some handy substitutions:
- Almonds: You can swap the almonds with other nuts like hazelnuts or peanuts if you prefer a different flavor or texture.
- Sugar-Free Option: If you’re aiming for a sugar-free treat, you can replace regular granulated sugar with sugar substitutes such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener, though the candy-coating process may require slight adjustments in cooking time.
- Vegan-Friendly Coating: Choose a plant-based or organic sugar to ensure the coating is vegan-friendly. Some sugars are refined using bone char, so check the packaging if you’re catering to vegan guests. Pair these dietary-friendly almonds with the Perfect Birthday Cake Recipe for any special occasion.
- Flavor Variations: While vanilla or almond extracts are the classic choices, you can experiment with lemon, orange, or even lavender extracts for a unique twist.
Step-by-Step Preparation of Jordan Almonds
Now, let’s dive into the detailed process of preparing your own Jordan almonds at home. This step-by-step guide ensures you achieve the perfect balance of crunchy almonds and smooth, sweet coating every time.
First Step: Prepare the Almonds
Begin by blanching your almonds. If they are raw and have skins, bring a pot of water to a boil, and add the almonds. Let them boil for about a minute, then drain them and immediately rinse them in cold water. Gently rub the almonds between your fingers to remove the skins. Lay the blanched almonds on a towel and allow them to dry completely.
Second Step: Create the Sugar Syrup
In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and vanilla (or your chosen extract). Place the pan over medium heat and stir gently until the sugar dissolves completely. Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pan, and continue to cook the sugar syrup until it reaches 140°C (285°F), which is the soft crack stage. This will ensure your coating has the perfect crispiness without being too hard.
Third Step: Color the Coating
Once your sugar syrup reaches the right temperature, remove it from the heat. At this point, you can add your food coloring to the syrup. Stir in a few drops of your desired food color and mix until evenly distributed. You can use one color for all your almonds or divide the syrup into different portions to create a mix of hues.
Fourth Step: Coat the Almonds
Place the almonds into the syrup and stir quickly but gently, ensuring each almond is thoroughly coated with the sugar mixture. The coating will begin to harden almost immediately, so work swiftly to avoid clumping.
Fifth Step: Set and Dry the Almonds
Once coated, use a slotted spoon to carefully remove the almonds from the syrup. Place them on a sheet of parchment paper in a single layer, making sure they aren’t touching. Allow them to cool and harden completely. This should take about 1-2 hours.
Sixth Step: Add a Second Coating (Optional)
For an extra thick coating or to create a more layered look, you can repeat the syrup process and coat the almonds a second time. Just be sure the first layer is completely dry before starting again.
Enhancing Jordan Almonds: Tips and Variations
To take your Jordan almonds to the next level, consider these tips and variations:
1. Play with Colors and Themes
Jordan almonds are often associated with specific occasions—white for weddings, blue and pink for baby showers, or red and green for Christmas. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your colors. You can even use metallic food coloring for a truly eye-catching display.
2. Experiment with Flavors
Vanilla and almond extracts are traditional, but adding citrus zest to the syrup or a touch of cinnamon can give your almonds a unique and exciting flavor profile. You can also try using different natural flavorings like rosewater or cardamom for a more exotic touch.
3. Shape and Packaging Ideas
Once your Jordan almonds are dry, consider placing them in decorative bags or jars as party favors. You can even make personalized tags to add a thoughtful touch. For weddings, small organza bags tied with ribbons in the bride’s colors make for a beautiful and memorable favor.
How to Store Jordan Almonds
Refrigeration
Jordan almonds can be stored at room temperature for several weeks, but if you’re in a hot climate or want them to last longer, refrigeration is an option. Place them in an airtight container to prevent moisture from affecting the sugar coating.
Freezing
If you need to prepare Jordan almonds far in advance, they freeze well too. Store them in an airtight container, ensuring there’s minimal air inside to avoid condensation when thawing. When you’re ready to use them, let them come to room temperature before serving to ensure the coating remains crisp.
Reheating
Jordan almonds don’t necessarily require reheating since they’re typically enjoyed at room temperature. However, if you find that the coating has become soft due to humidity, you can place them in a warm (but not hot) oven for a few minutes to restore their crunch.
Nutritional Benefits of Jordan Almonds
Jordan almonds offer a surprisingly balanced nutritional profile. Here’s a breakdown of the health benefits you can enjoy with every handful:
- Calories: Approximately 150 calories per serving (about 5 almonds)
- Protein: Almonds are an excellent source of plant-based protein, offering about 6 grams per ounce.
- Healthy Fats: The almonds are rich in monounsaturated fats, which support heart health.
- Fiber: Each serving contains 3-4 grams of fiber, which aids digestion.
- Vitamin E: Almonds are a significant source of vitamin E, known for its antioxidant properties and skin health benefits.
While the sugar coating adds a layer of sweetness, the almonds inside retain their numerous health benefits, making this a guilt-free indulgence when enjoyed in moderation.
Common Questions About Jordan Almonds
1. Can I use different types of nuts for this recipe?
Absolutely! While almonds are traditional, you can use hazelnuts, cashews, or even peanuts for a fun twist on the classic Jordan almond recipe.
2. Can I make Jordan almonds sugar-free?
Yes, it’s possible to make sugar-free Jordan almonds by using sugar substitutes like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener. Keep in mind that sugar substitutes may behave differently during the candying process, so you may need to experiment with timing and temperature.
3. How long do homemade Jordan almonds last?
When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, Jordan almonds can last up to 2-3 weeks. If refrigerated or frozen, they can last even longer—up to several months.
4. Can I add flavors to the sugar coating?
Yes! You can enhance the flavor of the sugar coating by adding extracts like almond, vanilla, lemon, or orange. Adding zest from citrus fruits is another way to introduce a bright, fresh flavor to the almonds.