• Candied almonds are a delightful treat that can easily be made in either an air fryer or an oven, offering a sweet and crunchy snack perfect for any occasion. To prepare them, start by combining raw almonds with sugar, a pinch of salt, and a splash of vanilla extract in a mixing bowl.

    If using an air fryer, preheat it to around 160°C (320°F). Spread the nut mixture in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook for approximately 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even coating. The heat will caramelise the sugar, coating the almonds in a shiny, sweet glaze.

    For those opting for the oven, preheat it to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper. Spread the almond mixture evenly on the tray and bake for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.

    Once the almonds are golden and fragrant, remove them from the heat and allow them to cool. The result is a batch of irresistibly crunchy, sweet nuts that can be enjoyed on their own or used as a delightful topping for desserts. Whether you choose the air fryer or the oven, candied almonds are sure to become a cherished snack in your repertoire.

  • Roasting almonds in an air fryer is a delightful way to enjoy this wholesome snack while achieving a perfect crunch. Begin by preheating your air fryer to around 160 degrees Celsius. Spread raw almonds evenly in the basket, ensuring they’re in a single layer for consistent roasting. For an extra touch of flavour, consider tossing them in a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt before cooking. Roast the almonds for about 8 to 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure they brown evenly. Keep a watchful eye, as nuts can quickly go from perfectly roasted to burnt. Once they’re golden and fragrant, allow them to cool before savouring them as a healthy nibble or a delightful addition to your favourite salads. The air fryer method not only enhances their natural flavour but also provides a quick and efficient way to prepare this nutritious treat.

  • Toasted Coconut Scones with Almonds are a delightful twist on the traditional British treat, merging the rich flavours of coconut and the subtle nuttiness of almonds. Perfectly golden and slightly crunchy on the outside, these scones boast a tender, melt-in-the-mouth texture that is simply irresistible.

    To make the best scones, start by preheating your oven to 220°C (200°C fan) and lining a baking tray with parchment paper. In a large bowl, combine 225g of self-raising flour, 75g of desiccated coconut, a pinch of salt, and 50g of toasted almonds, roughly chopped. The toasting process enhances the almonds' flavour, so don't skip it!

    Next, add 50g of cold, cubed butter and rub it into the flour mixture until it resembles fine breadcrumbs. Stir in 75g of caster sugar for a touch of sweetness, followed by 150ml of milk and a sprinkle of vanilla extract. Mix gently until the dough just comes together—be careful not to overwork it!

    Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and pat it into a round about 2.5cm thick. Use a sharp knife or a scone cutter to cut out your scones, and place them on the prepared baking tray. Brush the tops with a little milk for a golden finish.

    Bake in the oven for around 12-15 minutes, or until they are beautifully risen and a lovely golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before serving with a generous spread of clotted cream and a dollop of your favourite jam. Enjoy these scones with a steaming cup of tea for the ultimate afternoon treat!