Dawn's Candied Walnuts

1 . Stage

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Place walnuts onto a baking sheet and spread in a single layer.

2 . Stage

Roast in the preheated oven until nuts are fragrant and begin to turn brown, 8 to 10 minutes.

3 . Stage

Meanwhile, stir sugar, milk, cinnamon, and salt together in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat; attach a candy thermometer to the saucepan and bring mixture to a boil. Cook, without stirring, until mixture reaches 240 degrees F (115 degrees C), about 8 minutes. A small amount of syrup dropped into cold water should form a soft ball that flattens when removed from the water and placed onto a flat surface. Remove from the heat and immediately stir in vanilla.

4 . Stage

Stir nuts into the pan until well coated. Spoon nuts onto waxed paper and use a fork to remove any clumps. Cool to room temperature.