Step 1

Preheat the oven to 350ºF and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the walnuts, maple syrup and salt.

Step 2

Stir often, until the walnuts are toasted and the maple syrup is starting to stick to the nuts, about 3-5 minutes. The walnuts should look glossy, with less maple syrup visible on the pan.

Step 3

Transfer the cooked walnuts to the parchment lined baking sheet, and use two forks or spatulas to carefully separate the nuts into a single layer. (Don't use your hands, the hot maple syrup will stick to them!)

Step 4

Place the walnuts in the oven to bake at 350ºF for 5 to 7 minutes, then remove the pan and let them cool completely. (This should take 15 minutes or so.) When the walnuts are cool, break apart any nuts that have cooked together, and enjoy them straight off the pan, or in a serving bowl.

Step 5

These candied walnuts can be stored in an airtight container for up to 1 week, or for up to 1 month in the fridge. Serve them over salads for extra crunch!