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My sweet and spicy nut mix brings bold flavors to your snack game. After years of tweaking spices I found the perfect balance of heat sugar and herbs. These protein packed bites disappear fast at parties and make thoughtful holiday gifts.
Flavor Magic
Every handful delivers warm spices fresh rosemary and just enough heat to wake up your taste buds. The brown sugar caramelizes slightly during roasting creating an addictive coating. They shine on cheese boards and holiday spreads.
What You'll Need
- Nuts: My favorite mix includes almonds cashews walnuts pecans.
- Spices: Fresh ground cumin and coriander for warmth.
- Brown Sugar: Light or dark both work beautifully.
- Butter: Salted or plant based either is perfect.
- Rosemary: Fresh sprigs from the garden.
- Cayenne: Just enough for a gentle kick.
- Sea Salt: Brings all flavors together.
Quick Steps
- Toast
- Spread nuts on baking sheet 350°F for 10 minutes until golden fragrant.
- Season
- Toast spices in pan 30 seconds add butter sugar rosemary cayenne stir until melted.
- Mix
- Pour warm spiced butter over nuts toss with salt until coated.
Storage Notes
Keep in airtight jar up to week stays perfectly crunchy. Make double batch they vanish quickly. Perfect for party prep ahead.
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Mix It Up
Try adding pepitas or sunflower seeds. Swap in smoked paprika for extra depth. Double sugar and butter for candied version or skip cayenne for mild snacking.
The Perfect Balance
These nuts work because each element plays its part. Toasting releases natural oils while warm spices and brown sugar create an irresistible coating that keeps you reaching for more.
Ways to Serve
Set out bowls during cocktail hour add to cheese boards or package in mason jars for gifts. They elevate any gathering from casual game nights to formal holiday parties.
Good For You Too
Nuts pack protein healthy fats and fiber into each bite. Using raw nuts lets me control salt and sugar making them a smart choice for everyday snacking.
Holiday Perfect
The warm spices and sweet notes make these nuts ideal for winter gatherings. They bring cozy vibes to Thanksgiving spreads Christmas parties and New Year celebrations.
Success Tips
Watch nuts carefully while toasting they go from perfect to burnt quickly. Start with less cayenne you can always add more. Let them cool completely before storing ensures lasting crunch.
Classic Recipe Updated
I adapted this from an old Fine Cooking recipe adding my own spice blend. Years of making these taught me exactly how to balance sweet heat and herbs for the perfect handful.
Creative Variations
Mix in dried cranberries for holiday flair. Sprinkle with flaky salt before serving. Each batch can be unique based on your favorite nuts and seasonings.
Gift Giving
Fill pretty jars with cooled nuts seal tight. They make thoughtful hostess gifts and holiday presents. Include recipe card for personal touch.
Party Essential
These nuts never fail to draw people to the snack table. The blend of sweet spicy crunchy keeps everyone coming back for just one more handful.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → How long do these nuts stay fresh?
- Store in airtight container up to one week. Cool completely before storing to prevent moisture buildup.
- → Can I adjust the spice level?
- Adjust cayenne pepper amount to taste. Start with less for mild heat, double for extra kick.
- → What nuts work best?
- Any combination works. Cashews, walnuts, pecans, almonds are recommended. Pepitas make good alternatives.
- → Can I make these dairy-free?
- Simply swap regular butter for dairy-free butter. Taste and flavor remain similar.
- → Why toast the spices first?
- Toasting coriander and cumin releases oils and deepens flavors. This step enhances overall taste.