Toast chopped nuts to a golden brown so they become crispy and to bring out their robust flavor. In general, for more than 1 cup of nuts use the oven method. For smaller quantities, pull out a skillet. Either way, just remember to stir the nuts often to prevent them from burning.
This how to baking technique is used with the Sour Cream Apple Walnut Pie Recipe Tutorial.
Nuts:
ALMONDS:
Skillet or saucepan method: Place almonds in a heavy, ungreased skillet. Stir often over medium heat until golden brown.
Oven method: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Spread nuts in one layer on ungreased shallow baking pan. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden.
Microwave method: Place 1/2 cup slivered almonds and 1 tablespoon butter in a 9-inch microwave-proof pie plate. Microwave on high, stirring every minute until brown, 4 to 5 minutes.
HAZELNUTS: After blanching and optionally, chopping, Hazelnuts can be toasted. When doing so, make sure you take the hazelnuts from the oven when they are on the light side, as they will darken more as they cool. Also, when hazelnuts are added to hot melted chocolate or caramel, their heat will brown the nuts further. Let toasted nuts cool completely before using. They can be stored, covered, in a cool, dry place for up to 2 weeks.
In the Oven: Spread blanched, chopped nuts evenly in shallow pan. Bake in preheated 350 degree F oven 7-15 minutes or until golden brown. Stir frequently and DO NOT leave unchecked.
On Top of the Stove: Place skinned, chopped nuts evenly in a dry skillet. Cook over medium heat and cook, stirring or shaking the pan frequently to prevent burning. Take from pan when the nuts begin to release their flavor, about 4 minutes
HOW TO TIPS:
1. Position an oven shelf in the middle of the oven. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Chop walnuts fairly coarsely. And, then measure amount needed for the recipe.
2. Toast chopped walnuts until they start to turn golden brown. Stir about every few minutes.
This should take about 8 minutes (for 1 cup). Be careful not to burn them…they can go from perfect to burned very quickly!
3. Set walnuts aside to cool completely before using and/or storing.
