Candied Nuts

Instructions

1. Prepare the baking sheet
   Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Lightly spray with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Toast the nuts
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the nuts in a single layer on a baking sheet and toast for 8-10 minutes until fragrant, stirring halfway through. Remove from oven and set aside.
3. Make the sugar syrup
   In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, water, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally until sugar dissolves completely.
4. Add nuts to syrup
   Once the syrup reaches a boil, add the toasted nuts and stir continuously to coat. Continue cooking for about 5-8 minutes, stirring constantly, until the syrup thickens and begins to crystallize around the nuts.
5. Add final flavoring
   Remove from heat and immediately stir in vanilla extract, butter, and optional cloves and orange zest. Continue stirring until butter melts and nuts are evenly coated.
6. Cool and separate
   Turn the coated nuts out onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading them in a single layer. Work quickly to separate the nuts with two forks before the sugar hardens completely.