There’s something almost magical about the scent of chestnuts simmering in syrup on a chilly afternoon.It’s the kind of sweetness that feels like a hug, delicate, slow, and nostalgic.
In the heart of winter, when the world turns quiet, these golden, glossy chestnuts bring a touch of warmth to every home.
Making them is not about rushing, it’s about patience, care, and the simple joy of turning nature’s gift into a soft, melt-in-your-mouth treat.
Ingredients
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500 g peeled chestnuts (whole and unbroken if possible)
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2 cups granulated sugar
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2 cups water
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1 vanilla bean or 1 tsp vanilla extract
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Optional: 1 cinnamon stick or a few drops of rum
Instructions
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Prepare the chestnuts:
If using raw ones, score the shells, boil for 10 minutes, and peel carefully. Make sure no inner skin remains. -
Make the syrup:
In a wide pot, combine sugar, water, and vanilla. Bring to a gentle boil until sugar dissolves. -
Add the chestnuts:
Lower the heat and carefully place the chestnuts into the syrup.
Simmer for about 20–25 minutes, until they are tender but not falling apart. -
Soak and rest:
Remove from heat and let the chestnuts cool completely in the syrup.
Repeat the process (bringing back to a boil, simmering a few minutes, and cooling) once or twice over the next 1–2 days.
This helps the chestnuts slowly absorb the syrup, becoming beautifully glossy and rich. -
Dry and glaze:
Remove the chestnuts from the syrup and let them dry on a wire rack for several hours.
For a classic glazed finish, you can warm a little syrup and brush it over each chestnut before serving.
