Candied Chestnuts

Marrons Glacés

A note from Sylvie:

Chestnuts are really delicious when they're simply roasted, but the candied version is a very special treat in France and is a traditional Christmas gift. They take about a week to make. But, this recipe is truly easy to prepare and is well worth the effort. I tested numerous methods of peeling the chestnuts, and I think this one's the most efficient.

3 lbs. Chestnuts

6 c. Sugar

2 whole Vanilla Beans or 3 Tbsp.Vanilla Extract

1 c. Powdered Sugar

Easy Peel:

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees.

With a small, sharp knife cut a cross on the outer layer of the chestnuts. Boil the chestnuts in enough water to cover them for 2 to 3 minutes. Drain and place on a baking sheet to roast for 8-10 minutes. Do not overcook them, as the skin will re-attach itself.

Remove chestnuts from the oven to peel them. It is best to work with them while they are still hot. You may do this step in batches and keep the chestnuts warm by covering them with a kitchen towel.

To Candy and Glaze the Chestnuts:

In a large saucepan, prepare the syrup by bringing 6 cups of water, 3 cups of sugar, and the vanilla beans to a boil. Turn heat off, and plunge the chestnuts into the syrup.Cover and set aside overnight.

The next day, add the remaining sugar,bring the syrup to a boil for 1 to 2 minutes, set aside and cover again. You will need to bring the syrup to a boil for 1 to 2 minutes everyday for 6 days, or until the syrup is almost completely absorbed. You will have enough syrup left to use in your glaze.

The last day, preheat the oven to 350degrees, then line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Drain the chestnuts well and place them on the lined baking sheet. In a medium bowl combine the powdered sugar with enough warm syrup to obtain a smooth paste. Dip the chestnuts in the glazing paste and place on the prepared baking sheet again. To set the glaze, bake the chestnuts in the preheated oven for 3 to 4 minutes, or until the glaze looks set and dried. Remove from the oven and when cooled place the chestnuts in an air tight container. They will keep for up to two weeks.