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The Nonpareil almond (Prunus dulcis) is one of California's most recognized and highly valued almond cultivars, distinguished by its elongated shape, thin light-brown skin, crisp texture and delicately sweet flavor. Grown in California, United States, and marketed under the Supreme Almonds® brand, this selection features the large 20/22 size classification, particularly attractive for snacking, confectionery and culinary applications requiring whole almonds with excellent presentation
Nonpareil is considered a benchmark variety in the international almond industry due to its uniformity, processing versatility and delicate flavor. Its relatively thin skin facilitates blanching and peeling, while its mild taste makes it suitable for both sweet and savory preparations.
Organoleptic Properties
Edible kernel with an oval, elongated and slightly flattened shape, generally tapering toward one end. The thin skin ranges from golden brown to light brown, with a relatively smooth surface and creamy-white, firm and compact flesh. Texture is crisp, while flavor is mild, subtly sweet and characteristically nutty. Roasting enhances its aroma and develops richer toasted notes.
Almonds naturally contain predominantly unsaturated fats, plant-based protein, dietary fiber and vitamin E, contributing to their nutritional value. Their natural oil content also provides a pleasant mouthfeel and makes them suitable for nut butters, pastes and confectionery products.
Suggested Uses
Ideal for direct consumption as a snack, either alone or combined with other nuts, seeds and dried fruits. Suitable for granola, cereals, oatmeal, yogurt, salads, bowls and nut bars. In baking and confectionery, Nonpareil almonds are particularly appreciated in cookies, cakes, pies, chocolates, nougat, marzipan, pralines and decorative toppings, whether whole, roasted, sliced, chopped or ground.
Their delicate flavor also makes them suitable for pesto, sauces, crusts for fish and meat, vegetarian dishes, almond butter and plant-based beverages. Light roasting can intensify their natural aroma, while excessive heat should be avoided to prevent bitterness.
Format
250 Gr pack of Nonpareil almonds, Supreme Almonds® brand, with commercial classification #Extra C 20/22.
The 20/22 size indicates approximately 20–22 whole almond kernels per ounce (28.35 Gr), equivalent to approximately 706–776 kernels per kilogram. Almond sizing is determined by the number of kernels per ounce rather than their diameter: the lower the count per ounce, the larger the individual almond.
The designation Extra C identifies the commercial specification supplied for this product; formal grade requirements should be confirmed against the supplier's technical documentation.
Storage and Handling
Store in a cool, dry and clean place protected from direct sunlight, keeping the package tightly sealed to minimize exposure to oxygen and moisture. For extended storage, temperatures below 10 °C (50 °F) and relative humidity below 65% are recommended to preserve texture and slow the oxidation of natural oils.
Avoid storage near strongly aromatic products, as almonds may absorb external odors. Prolonged exposure to heat, air and moisture may cause loss of crispness, flavor deterioration and rancidity.
Quality and Selection Criteria
Select almonds that are whole, uniform, firm and crisp, with characteristic light-brown skin and no significant damage, moisture, insect infestation, mold or abnormal odors. Flavor should remain mild and fresh, without unusual bitterness or rancid notes.
The 20/22 size classification provides a presentation of large, relatively uniform kernels. Kernel integrity, minimal breakage and sound skin condition are particularly desirable, subject to applicable commercial grading tolerances.
Season
California's almond harvest generally takes place between August and October, depending on cultivar, production region and weather conditions. After harvesting, almonds undergo drying, shelling, sorting and grading processes that support storage and commercial availability throughout the year.
Origin
United States.
The Nonpareil almond occupies an important place in the history of California's almond industry. Introduced and commercially established during the nineteenth century, it became a benchmark variety thanks to its kernel quality, relatively soft shell and excellent processing characteristics. Its name comes from French and may be interpreted as “without equal,” reflecting the reputation this cultivar has earned over generations.
One of Nonpareil's most distinctive characteristics is its thin, relatively smooth skin, which facilitates blanching, slicing and processing for confectionery applications. California almonds are commercially evaluated through separate criteria for variety, size and grade, considering kernel uniformity, integrity, appearance and acceptable defect tolerances. This combination of attractive presentation, delicate flavor and culinary versatility has made Nonpareil one of the most widely recognized almond varieties in the international market.
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