Description
These Spiced Nuts are a flavorful and crunchy snack featuring a warm blend of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and a hint of cayenne pepper. Coated in a sweet and sticky mix of brown sugar, corn syrup, and spices, then baked to caramelized perfection, they’re perfect for nibbling on their own or adding a festive touch to cheese boards and salads.
Ingredients
Spice Mixture
- ¼ cup (packed) dark brown sugar
- 1 scant teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¾ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon light corn syrup
Nuts
- 3½ cups raw unsalted nuts (equal parts cashews and pecans, or any combination of cashews, pecans, and almonds)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 275°F (135°C) and position an oven rack in the middle. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Mix Spice Coating: In a large bowl, combine the brown sugar, salt, cinnamon, ground ginger, nutmeg, cayenne pepper (if using), water, and light corn syrup. Stir well until all ingredients form a uniform syrupy mixture.
- Coat Nuts: Add the raw unsalted nuts to the spice mixture and toss thoroughly until every nut is evenly coated with the sticky spice blend.
- Arrange and Bake: Spread the coated nuts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring the syrupy coating is evenly distributed. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 45 minutes, stirring once halfway through baking to promote even caramelization and toasting.
- Check for Doneness and Cool: Remove a few nuts and place them on a cool surface for a few minutes; if they feel dry to the touch and caramelized, they’re done. Carefully slide or lift the parchment with the nuts off the hot baking sheet onto a countertop and let them cool completely.
- Break and Store: Once cooled, break up any clusters with your hands. Store the spiced nuts in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to one week to maintain freshness.
Notes
- If you prefer a milder snack, omit the cayenne pepper entirely.
- You can customize the nut mix to your liking; walnuts or almonds also work well.
- Be careful when handling the hot caramelized nuts as the sugar mixture will be very hot right out of the oven.
- For longer storage, nuts can be refrigerated, extending freshness for up to two weeks.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
