Make Jordan Almonds: Recipe, Tips, And Variations

What are Jordan Almonds?

Hey guys! Have you ever wondered about those pretty, pastel-colored candies you often see at weddings and special occasions? Those are Jordan almonds, and they're not just a sweet treat – they're steeped in history and tradition! Jordan almonds are essentially almonds coated in a hard candy shell, and they've been enjoyed for centuries. The tradition of giving Jordan almonds as favors dates back to ancient Rome, where sugared almonds were given to celebrate weddings and births. The almonds themselves symbolize fertility, prosperity, and happiness, while the sweet coating represents the sweetness of life. Traditionally, five almonds are given to each guest, symbolizing health, wealth, happiness, fertility, and long life. Making your own Jordan almonds at home might sound intimidating, but trust me, it's a fun and rewarding project! You get to control the ingredients and customize the colors to match your event perfectly. Plus, the process itself is quite fascinating, involving multiple layers of candy coating to achieve that smooth, glossy finish we all love. In this guide, we'll walk you through each step of the process, from selecting the best almonds to achieving that perfect candy shell. We'll also share some tips and tricks to help you avoid common pitfalls and create Jordan almonds that are not only beautiful but also delicious. So, if you're ready to dive into the world of candy making, let's get started! We'll explore the history, symbolism, and the step-by-step process of making these delightful treats, ensuring you have all the knowledge and confidence to create your own batch of perfect Jordan almonds. This isn't just about making candy; it's about carrying on a tradition and adding a personal touch to your special occasions. Imagine the satisfaction of gifting your loved ones with these homemade treats, knowing that you've put your heart and soul into each and every almond. The journey of making Jordan almonds is an experience in itself, filled with the sweet aroma of sugar and the excitement of watching the candy layers slowly build up. So grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and let's embark on this sweet adventure together!

Gather Your Supplies

Alright, let's talk about what you'll need to make these delightful treats. First things first, you'll need high-quality almonds. Look for whole, blanched almonds that are uniform in size and shape. Blanching simply means the skins have been removed, giving your final product a smoother finish. You can usually find these at your local grocery store or online. Next up, the candy coating! The traditional coating is made from granulated sugar and water, but you can also use other sweeteners like corn syrup for a slightly different texture. You'll also need some powdered sugar, which acts as a binder and helps create a smooth, even coating. Food coloring is where you can really get creative! Gel food coloring is generally preferred over liquid food coloring because it's more concentrated and won't add excess liquid to your mixture. Choose colors that match your event theme or go for a classic pastel palette. Now for the equipment! A large, heavy-bottomed pot is essential for cooking the sugar syrup. This will help distribute heat evenly and prevent scorching. You'll also need a candy thermometer to ensure your syrup reaches the correct temperature. This is crucial for achieving the right consistency and a hard, glossy shell. A revolving panning machine, also known as a tumbling machine, is the traditional tool for coating the almonds. However, if you don't have one of these (and most of us don't!), don't worry! We'll show you how to achieve a similar effect using a large bowl and some elbow grease. You'll also need a sieve or strainer to dust the almonds with powdered sugar and a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to let them dry. Finally, make sure you have some spatulas or spoons for stirring the syrup and coating the almonds. Having all your supplies prepped and ready to go will make the whole process much smoother and more enjoyable. So, before you start melting sugar, take a moment to gather everything you need and set up your workspace. This will help you stay organized and focused, allowing you to create the most beautiful and delicious Jordan almonds possible. Think of it like preparing for a culinary adventure – the right tools make all the difference! So, gather your almonds, sugars, colors, and equipment, and let's move on to the next step: making the sugar syrup.

Making the Sugar Syrup

Okay, let's get to the heart of the matter: making that all-important sugar syrup! This is where the magic begins, guys. The sugar syrup is the foundation of your Jordan almond coating, and getting it just right is crucial for achieving that smooth, hard, and glossy shell. First, you'll need to combine granulated sugar and water in your heavy-bottomed pot. The ratio is usually about 2 parts sugar to 1 part water, but you can adjust it slightly depending on your recipe. Place the pot over medium heat and stir constantly until the sugar dissolves completely. This prevents the sugar from crystallizing and ensures a smooth syrup. Once the sugar is dissolved, stop stirring and insert your candy thermometer. Now comes the waiting game! You need to heat the syrup to the “hard-ball” stage, which is around 250-265°F (121-129°C). This is where the candy thermometer becomes your best friend. Keep a close eye on the temperature, as going beyond this range can result in a brittle or grainy coating. As the syrup heats, it will bubble and thicken. Don't be tempted to stir it at this point, as this can also cause crystallization. Just let it do its thing and monitor the temperature. Once the syrup reaches the hard-ball stage, remove the pot from the heat immediately. You don't want it to keep cooking and risk burning or overcooking. Now, here's a pro tip: have a bowl of ice water ready. If you're unsure about the temperature, you can carefully drop a small spoonful of syrup into the ice water. If it forms a hard, pliable ball, you've reached the hard-ball stage. If it's still soft and gooey, keep cooking the syrup for a few more minutes. Once your syrup is ready, you can add your chosen food coloring. Start with a few drops and stir gently until you achieve your desired color. Remember, the color will intensify as the syrup cools, so it's best to err on the side of caution and add more color gradually. Now that you have your perfectly cooked and colored sugar syrup, it's time to move on to the exciting part: coating the almonds! But before we do that, let's take a moment to appreciate the science and artistry that goes into making this simple syrup. It's all about precision, patience, and a little bit of culinary magic. So, pat yourself on the back for getting this far, and let's get ready to transform these almonds into beautiful, delicious Jordan almonds.

Coating the Almonds

Alright, guys, this is where the magic really happens! We're about to transform those plain almonds into beautiful, candy-coated treats. Coating the almonds is a multi-step process that requires patience and a little bit of technique, but the results are totally worth it. If you have a revolving panning machine, now's the time to break it out. These machines are designed to evenly coat candies by gently tumbling them in a rotating drum while the syrup is added. However, if you're like most of us and don't have a panning machine, don't worry! We can achieve a similar effect using a large bowl and some good old-fashioned elbow grease. First, place your blanched almonds in the bowl. Next, take a spoonful of your warm sugar syrup and drizzle it over the almonds. The key here is to use a small amount of syrup at a time. You want to coat the almonds in thin layers, allowing each layer to dry before adding the next. Now, gently toss the almonds in the syrup, making sure they are evenly coated. This is where the patience comes in! You'll need to keep tossing the almonds until the syrup starts to dry and form a thin, slightly rough coating. This may take a few minutes, so keep at it! Once the first layer is dry, dust the almonds with a little bit of powdered sugar. This helps the next layer of syrup adhere better and creates a smoother finish. Sift the powdered sugar over the almonds using a sieve or strainer to ensure an even coating. Repeat the process of adding syrup, tossing, and dusting with powdered sugar multiple times. Each layer will build upon the previous one, creating that signature hard candy shell. Aim for at least 5-7 layers of coating for a good, solid shell. As you add more layers, you'll notice the almonds becoming smoother and more uniform in shape. This is a sign that you're on the right track! If the almonds start to stick together, don't panic! Simply separate them gently with your fingers or a spoon. You can also add a little more powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Once you've added all the layers of coating, spread the almonds out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let them dry completely. This may take several hours, or even overnight. The drying process is crucial for achieving that hard, glossy finish. And there you have it! Perfectly coated Jordan almonds, ready to be enjoyed or gifted. It's a labor of love, but the results are truly stunning. The smooth, colorful shells and the crunchy almonds inside make for a delightful treat that's perfect for any occasion. So, take a moment to admire your handiwork, and get ready to enjoy the fruits (or should we say, almonds?) of your labor.

Drying and Finishing

Alright, guys, we're in the home stretch! You've coated your almonds, and now it's time to let them dry and add the finishing touches that will make them truly spectacular. Drying is a crucial step in the Jordan almond making process. It's what allows the sugar coating to harden and create that signature glossy finish. As we mentioned earlier, spread the coated almonds out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure they're not touching each other, as this can prevent them from drying evenly. Now, the waiting game begins! Depending on the humidity and temperature in your kitchen, the drying process can take anywhere from several hours to overnight. The ideal conditions for drying are cool and dry. If you live in a humid climate, you may want to use a fan to circulate air around the almonds and speed up the drying process. You'll know the almonds are dry when the coating is hard to the touch and no longer sticky. They should also have a smooth, glossy appearance. If the almonds are still sticky, they need more time to dry. Once the almonds are fully dry, you can add a final touch of shine by polishing them. This is an optional step, but it can really elevate the look of your Jordan almonds. To polish the almonds, place them in a clean bowl or container and toss them gently. The friction from the tumbling will buff the surface of the coating and create a beautiful shine. You can also add a small amount of edible luster dust to the almonds for an extra shimmer. Luster dust comes in a variety of colors and adds a subtle sparkle to your candies. And there you have it! Perfectly dried and finished Jordan almonds, ready to be packaged and enjoyed. They look absolutely stunning, don't they? The smooth, glossy shells and the vibrant colors make them a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds. Now that your Jordan almonds are complete, you can package them in pretty bags or boxes to give as gifts or use as wedding favors. They're also a delicious treat to have on hand for snacking or entertaining. So, congratulations on mastering the art of making Jordan almonds! You've taken a simple almond and transformed it into a beautiful and delicious confection. Pat yourself on the back for a job well done, and get ready to enjoy the sweet rewards of your labor.

Storing Your Jordan Almonds

So, you've made a beautiful batch of Jordan almonds – congratulations! Now, let's talk about how to store them so they stay fresh and delicious for as long as possible. Proper storage is key to maintaining the quality and appearance of your candies. The biggest enemies of Jordan almonds are moisture and heat. Moisture can make the sugar coating sticky and dull, while heat can cause the almonds to sweat and the coating to melt. Therefore, the best way to store Jordan almonds is in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. A pantry or a cupboard away from direct sunlight and heat sources is ideal. Avoid storing them in the refrigerator, as the humidity can affect the coating. If you live in a particularly humid climate, you can add a desiccant packet to the container to absorb any excess moisture. Desiccant packets are small pouches filled with a drying agent, such as silica gel, and they can help keep your Jordan almonds fresh and crisp. When stored properly, Jordan almonds can last for several weeks, or even months. However, it's always best to consume them within a reasonable timeframe to ensure the best flavor and texture. Before serving or gifting your Jordan almonds, take a moment to inspect them. Make sure the coating is still smooth and glossy, and that there are no signs of stickiness or melting. If you notice any issues, it's best to discard those almonds to maintain the overall quality of your batch. If you're planning to give your Jordan almonds as gifts, consider packaging them in airtight bags or boxes. This will not only keep them fresh but also add a touch of elegance to your presentation. You can also add a ribbon or a tag to personalize your gifts. And there you have it – all the tips and tricks you need to store your Jordan almonds properly and keep them fresh and delicious. So, go ahead and enjoy your sweet creations, knowing that they'll stay perfect for your next special occasion or sweet craving. Remember, a little bit of care and attention can go a long way in preserving the quality of your homemade candies. So, store them wisely, and savor every bite!

Variations and Customizations

Okay, you've mastered the basic Jordan almond recipe – fantastic! Now, let's get creative and explore some fun variations and customizations you can try. This is where you can really let your personality shine and create Jordan almonds that are uniquely yours. First up, let's talk about flavors. While the classic almond flavor is delicious on its own, you can experiment with adding different extracts to your sugar syrup. Vanilla extract, almond extract, or even citrus extracts can add a subtle but noticeable flavor boost to your Jordan almonds. Just be sure to add the extract sparingly, as too much can overpower the other flavors. Another way to add flavor is by using flavored sugars. You can find a variety of flavored sugars at specialty stores or online, such as vanilla sugar, lemon sugar, or even rose sugar. These sugars will not only add flavor but also a hint of color to your Jordan almonds. Color is another area where you can get creative. While pastel colors are traditional for Jordan almonds, there's no reason you can't experiment with bolder hues. Think vibrant reds, blues, or greens for a modern twist. You can even create ombre effects by gradually changing the color of the syrup as you add layers of coating. If you're feeling extra adventurous, you can try adding edible glitter or shimmer to your Jordan almonds. This will give them a dazzling, eye-catching look that's perfect for special occasions. Simply dust the finished almonds with edible glitter or shimmer powder while they're still slightly sticky. You can also customize the shape and size of your Jordan almonds. While whole almonds are the most common choice, you can also use other nuts, such as hazelnuts or macadamia nuts. You can even try using different shapes of candy molds to create unique Jordan almond designs. Another fun idea is to add a filling to your Jordan almonds. You can use a variety of fillings, such as chocolate ganache, caramel, or even flavored creams. Simply dip the almonds in the filling before coating them with the sugar syrup. Finally, don't forget about the packaging! How you present your Jordan almonds can make a big difference in their overall appeal. Consider using elegant boxes, bags, or ribbons to create a beautiful and memorable gift. And there you have it – a world of possibilities for customizing your Jordan almonds. So, go ahead and experiment, have fun, and create some truly unique treats that will impress your friends and family. The only limit is your imagination! Remember, making Jordan almonds is not just about following a recipe; it's about expressing your creativity and adding a personal touch to your sweet creations.