Step 1

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2

Mix walnuts and brown sugar together in a large saucepan and set on a stove-top over medium heat (or just below).

Step 3

As the brown sugar melts, use a wooden spoon to move the mixture around in the saucepan, making sure that all of the nuts get coated and none of the sugar stays in one place long enough to burn. Don't walk away from the stove; this will happen very quickly! Cook for about 5 minutes at the most, until all of the sugar has melted and all of the nuts are coated (or immediately if you smell anything burning).

Step 4

Remove pan from heat and quickly spread the nuts out on the lined baking sheet to prevent them from drying in a clump.

Step 5

Sprinkle nuts with sea salt, if desired, and allow to cool for a couple minutes before eating or using in a recipe.