Adjust oven rack to middle position and heat oven to 350 degrees F. Line baking sheet with parchment paper.

Whisk sugar, hot water, and salt in large bowl until sugar is pretty much dissolved. Add in nuts and stir to fully coat.

Spread nuts on a prepared baking sheet in a single layer and bake until nuts are crisp and dry, 10 to 12 minutes.

Transfer sheet to wire rack and let nuts cool completely, about 20 minutes. Transfer nuts to cutting board and chop if desired. (Nuts can be stored at room temperature for up to 1 week.)