In Celtic folklore, the walnut tree—and the nuts that fall from it—are associated with an unrelenting passion for all of life’s challenges. Maybe that’s why I’m so crazy for this treat. Or maybe it’s just because I love crunchy maple treats. Someone laughingly said that these delicious nuts are like peanut brittle without the chewy toffee grout. All I know for sure is that this is a delight for those who gravitate toward crispy snacks. Plus, walnuts have so many nutritional benefits. In addition to being high in omega-3s, they’re heart-healthy and may even help slow memory loss. So don’t be shy about eating these straight up, or sprinkle them on cereal, salad, or anything you like for extra flavor and crunch.

　　

Ingredients

makes 1/2 cups

　　1/2 cup raw walnuts

　　2 teaspoons maple syrup

　　Pinch of salt

　　Pinch of cayenne

　　

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a sheet pan with parchment paper.

　　

Step 2

Toss the walnuts with the maple syrup, salt, and cayenne until evenly coated, then spread them evenly on the sheet pan. Bake for 7 to 10 minutes, until aromatic and slightly browned. Let cool to room temperature, then use a metal spatula to loosen the nuts.

　　

variation

Step 3

For an extra kick, add some ginger and 1/4 teaspoon of orange zest.

　　

Step 4

If you’d prefer a savory variation, substitute 1/4 teaspoon of olive oil for the maple syrup.

　　

Step 5

If you aren’t a walnut fan, substitute 1/2 cup sliced almonds or pecans.

　　

storage

Step 6

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2 weeks or in

　　

Step 7

the freezer for 2 months.

　　

nutrition information

Step 8

(per serving)

　　

Step 9

Calories: 90

　　

Step 10

Total Fat: 8.2g (0.8g saturated, 1.1g monounsaturated)

　　

Step 11

Carbohydrates: 4g

　　

Step 12

Protein: 2g

　　

Step 13

Fiber: 1g

　　

Step 14

Sodium: 75mg

　　Excerpted from The Cancer Fighting Kitchen, copyright 2017 by Rebecca Katz and Met Edelson. Published with permission by Ten Speed Press.