How to Toast Almond Slices
Why toast almond slices? To get extra flavor and crispness. It’s amazing how the simple act of toasting almonds can really intensify their flavor. Once you try it, I know you’ll agree it’s worth it!
Read more: Candied Pecans, Homemade Trail Mix, 5 Sources of Plant Protein, Everyday Healthy Snacks.
Why Toast Almond Slices
Make the most of your almonds by toasting them. In just 3-5 minutes you’ll get:
- Crunchier texture
- Nuttier flavour
- Golden colour
What’s the Best Way to Toast Almond Slices?
There are two ways to toast almonds – in the oven or on the stove. You will get more even, consistent results when you toast them in the oven. But the stove method is quicker and uses less energy – so you decide.
You can use this method for whole almonds, sliced almonds and slivered almonds – blanched and not blanched. The bigger the pieces the longer it will take.
Here are both methods.
CAUTION: No matter which method you choose, almonds left in a pan or on a baking sheet will continue to brown, so remove them right away to let cool.
1. Toasting Almonds on the Stove
I use this method when I have just a few almonds I want to toast for a specific use, like a topping for a salad. It’s quick and easy, but the results will be more uneven than the oven method. The heat in the pan is uneven and will cause some pieces to become darker than others. You HAVE TO stay with the pan, observe and stir.
Here’s how to toast almonds in a pan on top of the stove:
- Place nuts in a dry skillet in a single layer (don’t crowd the pan).
- Stir and watch as almonds turn golden
- Do NOT walk away, they can burn quickly
- The whole process should take 3-5 minutes
2. Toasting Almonds In the Oven
I use this method for larger quantities and I want a nice even colour.
Here’s how to toast almond slices in the oven. Use the same method for whole almonds or slivered almonds, just add more time.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Spread almonds in a single layer on cookie sheet.
- Bake for 3-4 minutes.
- Check almonds and shake pan to stir.
- Check every minute until they’re desired color.
- Remove from oven and immediately pour onto a plate or platter where they can cool in a single layer. If left on the cookie sheet or in a pile, the almonds will continue to brown.
- Once completely cooled, store in an airtight container for up to two weeks. You could safely store them longer, but the flavor and texture will deteriorate.
Note: To save on energy, I usually toast almonds in the oven before or after baking cookies or something else so I don’t have to heat the oven for 3 minutes of almond toasting!
How to Store Toasted Almond Slices
If you make extras, here’s how to keep your toasted almonds:
- Cool completely before storing to avoid condensation.
- Keep in an airtight container in a dark, cool cupboard for 2 weeks.
- For extended storage keep them in the freezer.
How to Use Toasted Almonds
Use toasted almonds in any recipe calling for almonds, you’ll get more almond flavour and crunch with toasted almonds. Here are some ideas to get you started.
Salads – add a golden crunchy garnish to Mandarin Orange Spinach Salad, Strawberry Spinach Salad and so on.
Power Bowls – Add to power bowls like this grilled pineapple power bowl.
Roasted, Sauteed or Steamed Veggies – Dress up your green beans, roasted broccoli or cauliflower with crunchy toasted almonds.
Cookies and Baking – Use in or on top of cookies. Almond crescent cookies are one of our favourite Christmas cookies or how about a Nutella croissant with slivered almonds on top?! And this pear and almond chocolate tart is AMAZING.
Yogurt or Ice Cream Topping – Berries, yogurt and toasted almonds are the best! If you want to swap yogurt with ice cream – that’s pretty good too!
Recipe for Toasting Almonds – 2 Ways
How to Toast Almond Slices – 2 Ways
Ingredients
- 1 cup almonds sliced
Instructions
Stove Top Toasted Almonds
- Spread almonds in single layer in dry pan – no oil.
- Heat over medium high heat. Watch pan carefully and stir or shake as needed. Watch and stir for 3-5 minutes.
- Once you have desired colour, remove almonds from pan so they don't continue to brown.
Oven Toasted Almonds
- Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Spread almonds in a single layer on cookie sheet.
- Bake for 3-4 minutes.
- Check almonds, shake pan to stir almonds.
- Check every minute until they're desired color.
- Remove from oven and immediately pour onto a plate or platter where they can cool in a single layer. If left on the cookie sheet or in a pile, the almonds will continue to brown.
- Once completely cooled, store in an airtight container for up to two weeks. For longer storage, keep in freezer.
Video
Notes
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
How to Roast other Nuts and Seeds
You may also want to check out these other tips and recipes for nuts and seeds.
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Yes, I definitely think that it is worth it to toast them :). I was looking for an easier method than stovetop (it takes forever because some will be nearly overdone while others are completely pale), so I sit there are do tiny batches and it took me about 20 min today! So glad to have a new method to try soon!!!
Hi Sonya,
Glad you found an alternative method. I use the stove top if I’m doing a tiny batch for one salad and want to go quickly. The oven method is great for bigger batches for sure. Next time!
These roasted almonds look so delicious! My lovely wife buys me roasted almonds all the time, but I was unaware that she could make them herself! I definitely will be sharing this with my wife. May I also add that everything tastes better homemade. Thank you for the post!
Make them for yourself maybe & give your wife a break. All these men can’t even toast some nuts themselves!!
Good idea, Steve.
I’m glad you like the look of these, Xavier. This process is so easy, perhaps you could try roasting them yourself. Wouldn’t that be a great surprise for your wife!
Erm… I think you mean “Preheat oven to 350°F (180° ***C***).”
Yikes! You’re right, Lyon. Thanks for the heads up! I’ve updated the recipe.