How to Make Crunchy Toasted Almonds (Whole, Slivers, and Slices)

Toasting or roasting raw almonds gives them a satisfying crunch and enhances their flavor. It only takes about 15 minutes or less to make toasted almonds! In this post, learn how to toast almonds three ways: in the oven, on the stovetop, or in your air fryer. Instructions for whole nuts, almond slivers, and almond slices included!

As a Registered Dietitian, I include a variety of nuts in my diet on a regular basis because they are packed with nutrients. I love to add toasted almonds to all kinds of recipes, like homemade granola, salads, and baked oatmeal.

Wondering why you should toast almonds and other nuts? Toasted almonds (or roasted almonds) have a stronger and more pronounced flavor and a satisfying crunchy texture. If you try a toasted almond compared to a raw almond, you’ll notice the difference immediately!

Learn how to make toasted pecans on my blog, too!

This post outlines three methods for making toasted almonds: in the oven, on the stovetop, and in your air fryer. You need just one ingredient to make dry roasted almonds – raw almonds! You can use whole almonds, almond slices, or almond slivers, depending on how you plan to use them.

Step-by-step video

Almonds nutrition & health benefits

There are many benefits of eating almonds, whether you sprinkle some over a yogurt bowl or just grab a handful as a snack. One ounce of almonds (about 1/4 cup) provides:

• 4 grams of dietary fiber (14% of your daily needs)
• 6 grams of plant-based protein
• 0.329 mg riboflavin (25% of your daily needs)
• 6.67 mg Vitamin E (44% of your daily needs)
• 0.3 mg copper (33% of your daily needs)
• 76.83 mg magnesium (18% of your daily needs)
• 196.18 mg phosphorus (10% of your daily needs)

In addition to micronutrients, fiber, and protein, almonds are an excellent source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fatty acids. This type of fat can help lower the “bad” LDL cholesterol in your blood, and therefore helps reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Because they are so nutritious, almonds are a good choice for anyone, but particularly if you follow a plant-based diet since they provide a good amount of protein.

Toasted almonds in the oven

Roasting almonds in the oven is the easiest method, but it takes a few extra minutes because you have to preheat the oven. Oven toasted almonds is also the best method for larger batches of almonds, one cup or more. Here’s how to toast almonds in the oven:

• Preheat oven to 325°F.
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Spread raw almonds out on the baking sheet, making sure they are not crowded or overlapping.
• Cook time as follows:
  • Whole almonds: 8-13 minutes
  • Slivered almonds: 5-10 minutes
  • Sliced almonds: 5-10 minutes

When I have the time, this is my prefered method because the almonds cook most evenly.

You will know toasted almonds are done when they are one shade darker for whole almonds, light golden brown for almond slices and slivers, and fragrant when you open the oven door.

Toasted almonds in a skillet

With a smaller amount of almonds to toast, like half a cup, you can toast them on the stovetop in a non-stick skillet. This method is quicker than oven roasted almonds, but requires more hands-on time. Here’s how to do it:

• Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat on the stovetop.
• Add almonds and use a wooden spoon to mix them around. Don’t leave the stove – you’ll need to stir regularly to prevent burning, which can happen quickly!
• Cook time as follows:
  • Whole almonds: 7-10 minutes
  • Slivered almonds: 3-6 minutes
  • Sliced almonds: 3-6 minutes

Toasted almonds in the air fryer

Did you know you can use your air fryer to toast almonds and other nuts? This method is best for smaller batches – one cup or less.

• Spread out almonds in your air fryer tray or basket, ensuring they are not overlapping or crowding.
• Set air fryer to 250°F.
• Cook times as follows:
  • Whole almonds: 12-17 minutes
  • Slivered almonds: 8-12 minutes
  • Sliced almonds: 5-10 minutes

Note: Temperature and cook time may vary based on the air fryer model you have.

What to do with toasted almonds

Toasted almonds are a versatile ingredient that adds crunchy texture and lots of nutrients to meals. Add a sprinkle to enhance your dishes – both sweet and savory! Here are a few ways to use toasted almonds:

• Oatmeal bowls or yogurt bowls
• Salads – like this arugula salad with burrata
• Grain bowls
• Baked goods like cookies or quick breads
• Roasted vegetables – add a sprinkle to roasted cauliflower, broccoli, or winter squash
• Pasta – toasted almonds add a nice crunchy texture
• Sauces – blend toasted almonds into sauces, such as pesto or romesco

How to store toasted almonds

Store toasted almonds in a glass jar or airtight container for up to three months. It’s best to keep them in the fridge, freezer, or a cool, dark place away from heat, which can cause the fats in almonds to oxidize and go rancid.

Let me know if you love this post by leaving a comment or star rating below, and check out Instagram and Pinterest for more healthy lifestyle inspiration. Thanks for stopping by!

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