Toasting nuts seems like it should be so simple that it's not worthy of an explanation, but if you've never done it before, you might not be sure just how it's done. I say this because not that long ago, I was one of those people who felt like I should know how to toast nuts, but didn't. And in fact, a few different times that I tried left me wondering if it was really worth it. Finally, I found a method that works for me (which is still one of the simplest methods out there) and I see the light!! Toasting nuts brings out a lot of flavor in them, which is a good thing whether you just want to snack on them or you're adding them to a recipe. Now that I've figured this out, I'll probably be toasting nuts for a lot of my recipes, so I thought some of you might find a little how-to for this helpful. Right now, I'm only giving the times for toasting walnuts and pecans, because these are the nuts I've tried toasting with this method.As I try toasting other nuts, I'll add the appropriate times for them to this page.
How to Toast Nuts
A simple how-to for toasting nuts to bring out the best in their flavor!
Ingredients
- Nut of choice
- Almonds - 10-15 minutes
- Pecans - 10-15 minutes
- *Times are approximate as ovens may vary.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, and lay the nuts out in a single layer on top. Bake in the preheated oven for the appropriate amount of time depending on the nut you are using.
- Nuts are done when they smell toasted and fragrant. (You may not smell them until you open the oven door).*
- Allow nuts to cool for at least 5 minutes before eating or incorporating into a recipe.
Notes
*It's a good idea to keep an eye on nuts while toasting to make sure none of them are browning too much. A burning smell means stop!
Laura (Tutti Dolci)
Toasted nuts are such a great snack!
alexandra
True! The hardest part about toasting some for a recipe is making sure they last long enough to go in the recipe. ;)