How to Toast Almonds

LLearn how to toast sliced or slivered almonds on the stovetop or in the oven. These simple methods bring out their nutty flavor and give them a golden color and crisp texture.

Use toasted almonds in salads, baked goods, or as a topping for vegetables. All you need is raw almonds and a dry skillet or baking sheet, with no oil required.

Toasting sliced and slivered almonds

Toasting almonds brings out their flavor and adds crunch to sweet and savory dishes. It takes just a few minutes, but watch closely because almonds can go from golden to burnt quickly.

I prefer the stovetop when toasting less than a cup of almonds. For larger amounts, I use the oven so I can spread them out on a baking sheet.

Sliced almonds are thin, flat pieces, while slivered almonds are thicker strips. Sliced almonds generally toast more quickly, so use their color and nutty aroma to judge when they’re ready.

What you'll need to Toast Almonds

• Almonds: Use raw, unsalted sliced or slivered almonds. Check that they smell and taste fresh before toasting.
• For the stovetop: Use a heavy skillet with enough room to spread the almonds in a single layer. You’ll also need a heatproof spatula for stirring.
• For the oven: Use a rimmed baking sheet. Parchment paper is optional, but makes transferring the almonds easier.
• A plate or tray: Transfer the toasted almonds from the hot pan immediately to prevent them from browning further.

How to toast almonds on the stovetop

The stovetop works well for small batches of sliced or slivered almonds.

1. Place the almonds in a dry skillet, spreading them in a single layer. No oil or butter is needed.
2. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring or shaking the pan frequently so the almonds toast evenly.
3. Watch closely as they begin to color. The almonds are ready when they’re lightly golden and smell nutty. Sliced almonds may brown at the edges first.
4. Immediately transfer the almonds to a plate or tray. Don’t leave them in the hot skillet, where they’ll continue to brown.
5. Allow them to cool before using or storing. They’ll become crisper as they cool.

The time will vary depending on your skillet, stove, and the thickness of the almonds. Use color and aroma as your main guides.

How to toast almonds in the oven

The oven works well for larger batches of sliced or slivered almonds.

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Spread the almonds in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet. Line with parchment paper if desired. No oil or butter is needed.
3. Bake for 6–10 minutes, stirring halfway through. Begin checking at 6 minutes, especially if using thinly sliced almonds.
4. Remove from the oven when the almonds are lightly golden and smell nutty.
5. Immediately transfer the almonds to a plate or tray so they don’t continue browning on the hot baking sheet. Allow to cool before using or storing.

The exact time will vary with the thickness and amount of almonds and your oven. Watch closely during the final few minutes.

Tips for perfectly toasted almonds

• Toast similar pieces together. Sliced and slivered almonds can brown at different rates, so toast them separately.
• Avoid overcrowding. Keep the almonds in a single layer. Use batches on the stovetop if needed.
• Stay nearby. Almonds brown quickly once they start to toast.
• Check both color and aroma. Look for a light golden color and a nutty smell rather than relying only on the timer.
• Cool before tasting for crunch. Warm almonds may seem slightly soft. They become crisper as they cool.

Ways to use toasted almonds

Sprinkle toasted almonds over salads, roasted vegetables, or casseroles for extra crunch. Try them in my green beans almondine or as part of the buttery topping for trout almondine. They’re also delicious layered into a Greek yogurt parfait or scattered over oatmeal and vanilla ice cream.

How to store toasted almonds

Allow the almonds to cool completely before storing so trapped warmth doesn’t create condensation and soften them.

Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to two weeks. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to three months for the best quality.

Toasted Almonds FAQs

For another simple way to add flavor and crunch, learn how to toast pecans. You’ll also find more useful techniques in my collection of kitchen and baking basics.

If you make this recipe, I’d love to hear about it! Leave a comment below and snap a picture and tag me on Instagram @beyondthechickencoop