Heat a large frying pan or deep pot on medium heat. When hot, add the sugar, salt, cinnamon, and water and mix until fully combined. Allow to heat up, stirring occasionally.
When the sugar (or sweetener) has completely melted, add the nuts and mix until fully incorporated. Watch over the pan and continue stirring often until most of the sugar has been coated and beginning to crystallize.
Remove pan from the heat and allow to sit for 1-2 minutes. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, stir the nuts once more to avoid overly large clusters and set on a plate or chopping board to cool completely.
Notes
For more cluster-sized portions, allow to sit for 10 minutes.TO STORE: Place candied nuts in an airtight container for 2 weeks or longer. Keep them in a cool and dry place to prevent the nuts from getting sticky. TO FREEZE: Caramelized nuts also freeze well. Put them in a freezer bag, push out the excess air, and freeze for up to 2 months.