Irresistible Sweet and Spicy Mixed Nuts

Crunchy, flavorful, and utterly addictive, my Sweet & Spicy Mixed Nuts recipe is a game-changer for your snack game. The perfect balance of sweetness, heat, and aromatic herbs makes these protein-packed bites a must-have at any gathering. Picture this: brown sugar caramelizing to perfection, cayenne pepper giving a delightful kick, and fresh rosemary adding a touch of earthiness. These nuts are the star of the show, whether you’re hosting a happy hour or looking for a thoughtful holiday gift.

Crafted after years of experimenting with different spice blends, these mixed nuts are a testament to the harmonious marriage of warm spices, rich brown sugar, and the subtle heat of cayenne. Almonds, cashews, walnuts, and pecans come together in this recipe, each nut playing a vital role in creating the ultimate snacking experience. Whether you’re setting up a cheese board, prepping for a party, or just looking for a satisfying snack, these Sweet & Spicy Mixed Nuts are sure to please every palate. So go ahead, whip up a batch, and watch them disappear in no time – these nuts are a true crowd-pleaser!

Quick Benefits

• Bold Flavors: Perfect balance of heat, sugar, and herbs for an addictive snack
• Protein-Packed: Almonds, cashews, walnuts, and pecans provide a nutritious boost
• Versatile: Ideal for parties, cheese boards, holiday spreads, or thoughtful gifts
• Thoughtful Ingredients: Fresh rosemary, warm spices, brown sugar, and just enough cayenne for a kick

Why You’ll Love This Irresistible Sweet and Spicy Mixed Nuts Recipe

• Addictive Flavor Combination: The sweet caramelized brown sugar, warm spices, and hint of cayenne create a perfect balance of sweet and heat that keeps you reaching for more.
• Versatile Snack: Perfect for happy hour, parties, or even as a thoughtful holiday gift, these nuts are a hit on cheese boards, game nights, and formal gatherings.
• Easy to Customize: You can mix and match nuts, adjust spice levels, and even add different seasonings like smoked paprika to create your own unique twist on this recipe.
• Healthy Snacking Option: Packed with protein, healthy fats, and fiber, these nuts are a smart choice for everyday snacking, giving you a satisfying crunch without the guilt.
• Festive and Cozy Vibes: Ideal for winter gatherings, these nuts bring a cozy touch to Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s celebrations, making them a must-have for your holiday spreads.
• Crunchy and Addictive: The nuts stay perfectly crunchy when stored in an airtight jar, making them a convenient make-ahead party snack that disappears quickly.
• Thoughtful Gift Idea: Packaged in pretty jars with a recipe card, these nuts make thoughtful hostess gifts and holiday presents that are sure to impress and delight your friends and family.

Ingredients for Irresistible Sweet and Spicy Mixed Nuts

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin.
• 1 cup raw pecans.
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar.
• 1 cup raw almonds.
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped.
• 2 tablespoons butter.
• 1 cup raw walnuts.
• 1 cup unsalted cashews.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander.
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt.

Pro Tips for Irresistible Sweet and Spicy Mixed Nuts

Pro tip #1: When making the Sweet & Spicy Mixed Nuts, keep a close eye on them as they roast to prevent the brown sugar from burning. Stir occasionally to ensure the nuts are evenly coated with the caramelized sugar mixture for a perfect crunch.

Pro tip #2: Customize your nut mix by adding in your favorite nuts like pepitas or sunflower seeds for extra texture and flavor. Feel free to adjust the cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference, starting with a smaller amount and adding more gradually. Experiment with different seasonings like smoked paprika for a unique twist on this addictive snack.

How to Make Irresistible Sweet and Spicy Mixed Nuts

Step 1: Step 01

Preheat oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Step 02

Arrange nuts in a single layer and bake for 10-12 minutes until toasted.

Step 3: Step 03

Toast coriander and cumin in a skillet for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Step 04

Combine butter, sugar, cayenne, and rosemary in a pan and cook for 2 minutes.

Step 5: Step 05

Combine warm nuts with spice mixture and salt, then let cool completely.

Storage Tips

To store the finished Sweet & Spicy Mixed Nuts, it is recommended to keep them in an airtight jar. This will help maintain their crunchiness and preserve their flavors. The nuts can be stored in the airtight jar for up to a week. If you anticipate the nuts being enjoyed quickly, consider making a double batch as they tend to vanish rapidly, especially during parties or gatherings.

When storing the nuts, ensure that they have cooled completely before sealing them in the airtight jar. This step helps in retaining the crunch of the nuts. It’s also advisable to keep an eye on the nuts while toasting to prevent burning, as they can quickly go from perfectly roasted to burnt. By following these storage tips, you can enjoy the Sweet & Spicy Mixed Nuts at their best for snacking, serving on cheese boards, or gifting in pretty jars as thoughtful presents.

Ingredient Substitutions

For those with dietary restrictions or preferences, there are several ingredient substitutions you can consider for this sweet and spicy mixed nuts recipe. To make this recipe vegan or dairy-free, simply swap the butter for a plant-based alternative like vegan butter or coconut oil. Both options will work well to create a delicious coating for the nuts.

If you are looking to adjust the level of spiciness in the nuts, feel free to customize the amount of cayenne pepper used. Start with a smaller amount and gradually increase to suit your taste preferences. You can also omit the cayenne entirely for a mild version that is perfect for those who prefer less heat in their snacks.

Additionally, if you want to vary the flavors in the nut mix, consider experimenting with different types of nuts or seeds. Pepitas or sunflower seeds can be added to the mix for extra crunch and flavor. You can also try using smoked paprika in place of cayenne for a deeper, smokier taste profile. Don’t be afraid to get creative and tailor the recipe to your liking by incorporating your favorite nuts and seasonings.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try incorporating these sweet and spicy mixed nuts into a charcuterie board. Pair them with a variety of cheeses, dried fruits, crackers, and meats for a well-rounded and flavorful snack spread that is sure to impress your guests. The crunchy texture and bold flavors of the nuts will complement the other elements on the board, creating a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy notes.

Another fun idea is to package these addictive nuts in small mason jars and tie them with a festive ribbon for a thoughtful and delicious holiday gift. Include a handwritten recipe card with serving suggestions to personalize the gift and share the joy of these irresistible homemade treats with your friends and family. Perfect for spreading holiday cheer and showing appreciation to your loved ones, these sweet and spicy mixed nuts are a delightful and unique present that will surely be enjoyed by all.

FAQs for Irresistible Sweet and Spicy Mixed Nuts

Can I substitute the nuts in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize the nut mix based on your preferences. You can swap out any nuts you don’t like or add more of your favorites to the mix.

How can I make these nuts less spicy?

If you prefer a milder version of these sweet and spicy nuts, you can reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. You can always start with a small amount and add more later to adjust the heat level to your liking.

How long do these sweet and spicy mixed nuts stay fresh?

When stored in an airtight container, these nuts can stay fresh and crunchy for up to a week. Make sure to let them cool completely before sealing the container to maintain their texture.

Can I make a large batch of these nuts for a party?

Absolutely! These sweet and spicy mixed nuts are perfect for party prep ahead of time. Consider making a double batch as they tend to disappear quickly and are a hit at gatherings.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these Sweet & Spicy Mixed Nuts are truly a game-changer when it comes to snack time. The balance of heat from the cayenne, sweetness from the brown sugar, and aromatic herbs create a flavor explosion that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a thoughtful gift, or just want a delicious snack to enjoy, these nuts are sure to please.

So, gather your favorite nuts, spices, and herbs, and whip up a batch of these addictive Sweet & Spicy Mixed Nuts. They are perfect for any occasion and are guaranteed to be a hit with everyone who tries them. Don’t forget to make extra because these crunchy treats have a way of disappearing quickly once you put them out. Enjoy the warm spices, the sweet notes, and the satisfying crunch of these delectable nuts – they are bound to become a staple in your snack rotation!

Irresistible Sweet and Spicy Mixed Nuts

Indulge in the addictive crunch of Sweet & Spicy Mixed Nuts – a perfect balance of warm spices, caramelized brown sugar, and a hint of cayenne heat.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time10 Minutes

Cook Time15 Minutes

Total Time25 Minutes

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings16 Servings (4 cups)

Ingredients

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin.
• 1 cup raw pecans.
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar.
• 1 cup raw almonds.
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped.
• 2 tablespoons butter.
• 1 cup raw walnuts.
• 1 cup unsalted cashews.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander.
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt.

Instructions

1. Step 01: Preheat oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Step 02: Arrange nuts in a single layer and bake for 10-12 minutes until toasted.
3. Step 03: Toast coriander and cumin in a skillet for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Step 04: Combine butter, sugar, cayenne, and rosemary in a pan and cook for 2 minutes.
5. Step 05: Combine warm nuts with spice mixture and salt, then let cool completely.