Sweet and Spicy Roasted Nuts Recipe

Sweet and Spicy Nuts: A Perfect Snack for Any Occasion

If you’re looking for a snack that combines the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory, this recipe for Sweet and Spicy Nuts is exactly what you need. Shared with me by my son, who claims they’re so addictive, it would be a crime not to share them, this easy-to-make treat is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re having a cozy night in, hosting a picnic, or looking for a thoughtful homemade gift, these nuts fit the bill. The recipe calls for a classic mix of walnuts, pecans, and almonds, but feel free to add a few extra nuts like cashews or peanuts if you’re in the mood for something a little different. With minimal preparation and just 30 minutes in the kitchen, you’ll have a batch of crunchy, flavorful nuts that everyone will love.

Recipe Category: Under 30 Minutes
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6 cups
Calories (per serving): 911.1 kcal

Ingredients for Sweet and Spicy Nuts

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Begin by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This ensures the nuts will roast perfectly and get a nice golden brown glaze.

2. Prepare the Baking Sheet
   Lightly spray a large baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray. This prevents the nuts from sticking to the sheet while baking.

3. Melt the Butter
   In a large nonstick skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Allow the butter to melt gently to avoid browning, stirring occasionally.

4. Add the Spices and Sugar
   Once the butter has melted, add the golden brown sugar, water, chili powder, salt, cumin, oregano, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to the skillet. Stir the mixture constantly for about 1 minute, or until the sugar dissolves and the ingredients combine into a smooth syrup-like consistency.

5. Coat the Nuts
   Add the walnut halves, pecan halves, and almonds (or any additional nuts if you like) into the skillet. Stir well for about 2 minutes, ensuring that the nuts are thoroughly coated in the spicy butter mixture. The coating should be thick and glossy.

6. Spread the Nut Mixture
   Once the nuts are coated, spread the mixture out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Try to keep the nuts in an even layer to ensure even roasting.

7. Bake to Perfection
   Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes. Stir the nuts every 8 minutes to ensure they cook evenly and don’t burn. You’ll know the nuts are ready when they are deep brown, glazed, and aromatic.

8. Cool and Store
   Remove the nuts from the oven and let them cool completely on the sheet. Stir occasionally as they cool to prevent them from sticking together. Once they are fully cooled, transfer them to an airtight container for storage.

   Storage Tip: These sweet and spicy nuts can be made up to 1 week ahead. Simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crispness and flavor.

Tips for Making Sweet and Spicy Nuts

• Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a less spicy snack, feel free to reduce the amount of cayenne pepper. Alternatively, if you like more heat, add a bit more!
• Use Other Nuts: This recipe is highly adaptable. Feel free to mix in other nuts such as cashews, peanuts, or even pistachios to add variety.
• Make Ahead for Gifts: These nuts make great homemade gifts! Package them in a nice jar or gift box and give them to friends or family as a thoughtful treat.

Whether you’re serving these at a casual gathering, packing them in a lunchbox, or simply munching on them during your favorite TV show, Sweet and Spicy Nuts are sure to be a hit. Easy to make, full of flavor, and totally addictive, this recipe is one you’ll return to time and again. Enjoy!