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5 from 2 votes

Sesame Candy (芝麻糖)

Sesame seed candy is a quick and easy treat that only requires four ingredients! This version is less brittle, perfectly sweetened, and is healthier than the traditional candy. It also adds nuts for extra flavor.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time1 hour
Total Time1 hour 10 minutes
Course: Snack
Cuisine: Chinese
Keyword: chinese sesame candy, sesame candy, sesame candy recipe, 芝麻糖
Servings: 40 candies
Calories: 80kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 cups black sesame seeds (290 grams)
  • 1/2 cup white sesame seeds (55 grams)
  • 1 cup walnuts (100 grams, can use any other nuts)
  • 3 egg whites
  • 2/3 cup sugar (133 grams)
  • pinch of salt

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a large 9" x 13" baking sheet with parchment paper. Note 1
  • (Optional, but recommended) If you are using raw sesame seeds, toast them in a dry pan over medium heat for 3-6 minutes until fragrant. Set aside to cool. Also toast the walnuts (or any other nuts) in the pan until browned and fragrant, around 5 minutes. Roughly chop the walnuts and set aside to cool. Note 2
  • In a bowl, add the egg whites, sugar, and salt. Mix until just combined. Do not whisk or incorporate any air.
  • Add the sesame seeds and walnuts to the bowl. Mix well to combine.
  • Pour the mixture into the lined baking sheet. Press down firmly to make sure the candy is compact. Note 3
  • Bake the candy for 1 hour.
  • Remove the candy from the oven and use a sharp knife to cut it immediately into squares. The candy is easiest to cut when warm.
  • Let the candy cool before storing in an air-tight container. The sesame snack can be stored for up to a month in a cool, dry place.

Notes

  1. If you do not have a 9" by 13" inch baking sheet, you can also use any other baking pan. The cooking time may vary based on the pan size. For example, you may want to divide the candy among two 8" by 8" pans so that the candy is not too thick. If the thickness goes over 1/2", I would advise baking for a longer time. 
  2. If you are using toasted sesame seeds, you can still toast them again for a minute or so to bring out more flavor. For nuts, you can also bake them in a 350F oven for 6-7 minutes.
  3. Make sure the candy is very compact so that it is less prone to falling apart when you cut it. It will also help to make the texture crisper.