Sweet and Spicy Roasted Almonds (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ For the Almonds
01 -
2 cups whole almonds
02 -
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
03 -
1 ½ tablespoons honey
04 -
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
→ For the Spice Coating
05 -
2 tablespoons sugar
06 -
½-1 ¼ teaspoons cayenne pepper (start with less and adjust to taste)
07 -
1 teaspoon kosher salt
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat oven to 350°F with a rack in the center position. Line two sheet pans with parchment paper. Set one of the prepared sheet pans aside near the oven for later use.
02 -
Spread the almonds onto the center of the other parchment-lined sheet pan. Drizzle the olive oil and honey over the almonds. Sprinkle with ¼ teaspoon kosher salt. Try to distribute the ingredients evenly over the nuts.
03 -
Place the almonds in the preheated oven for just 3 minutes, then remove and stir well to ensure all the almonds are evenly coated with the honey mixture. Spread the almonds back out to an even layer on the pan.
04 -
Return the pan to the oven and continue roasting for 10-13 minutes, or until the nuts are a nice golden brown. Halfway through the baking time, stir the almonds and spread them back into an even layer to ensure even roasting.
05 -
While the nuts are roasting, combine the sugar, cayenne pepper, and 1 teaspoon kosher salt in a small bowl. Stir well to thoroughly mix and set aside.
06 -
Remove the almonds from the oven and immediately transfer them to the clean parchment-lined sheet pan you set aside earlier, leaving behind any pooled honey or oil. While the nuts are still hot, sprinkle them with the sugar-spice mixture and toss gently with two spoons until evenly coated.
07 -
Spread the coated almonds into a single layer and allow them to cool completely. Once cooled, transfer to an airtight container, leaving behind any excess sugar mixture on the parchment paper. The almonds will keep well stored this way for up to two weeks.
# Notes:
01 -
These versatile almonds offer the perfect balance of sweet honey and spicy cayenne, making them an addictive snack on their own or a flavorful addition to salads.
02 -
Cayenne pepper can vary significantly in heat level. Start with the smaller amount suggested and add more to taste. You can always add more spice but you can't take it away!
03 -
The almonds will become crisper as they cool. For the best texture, be sure to remove them from the oven when they're golden brown rather than dark brown.