Sweet & Spicy Candied Nuts
If you’re looking for a snack that perfectly balances sweet and spicy flavors, look no further than these Sweet & Spicy Candied Nuts. They’re not just delicious; they’re incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed as a snack on their own, added to salads, or used as a topping for desserts. The combination of mixed nuts, a hint of cayenne pepper, and a sugary coating creates a crunchy, addictive treat that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, making a gift, or just craving a delightful munch, this recipe is sure to impress.
Why This Sweet & Spicy Candied Nuts Stands Out
What sets these Sweet & Spicy Candied Nuts apart is the dynamic flavor profile that captures both the warmth of spices and the sweetness of sugar. The blend of cayenne pepper and cinnamon works harmoniously, elevating the taste of the nuts to a whole new level. Plus, the process of making these nuts is straightforward, making it accessible for both novice and seasoned cooks alike. Once you try them, you’ll find it hard to go back to store-bought snacks. They also make an excellent homemade gift idea that’s sure to wow your friends and family!
Ingredient Breakdown
To create your batch of Sweet & Spicy Candied Nuts, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds mixed nuts – Choose your favorites! Almonds, cashews, walnuts, and pecans all work beautifully.
- 2 large egg whites, room temperature – This helps the sugar adhere to the nuts and creates a lovely crunch.
- 2 Tbsp water – Used to help whisk the egg whites to the right consistency.
- 1 cup brown sugar – Adds a rich sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 1 cup white granulated sugar – Balances the brown sugar and adds crispness.
- 1 Tbsp kosher salt – Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper – Adds a kick of heat that makes these nuts irresistible.
- 2 tsp cinnamon – Provides warmth and sweetness, rounding out the flavor profile.
Kitchen Gear Checklist
Before you dive into making your Sweet & Spicy Candied Nuts, gather these kitchen essentials:
- Large mixing bowl – For combining the egg whites and other ingredients.
- Whisk – To whip the egg whites until frothy.
- Baking sheet – Preferably lined with parchment paper for easy clean-up.
- Rubber spatula – For folding the nuts into the sugary mixture.
- Oven – Preheat to ensure even baking.
Sweet & Spicy Candied Nuts: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your nuts will crisp up beautifully when they bake.
Step 2: Prepare the Egg Whites
In a large mixing bowl, combine the egg whites and water. Use a whisk to beat the mixture until it becomes frothy. You don’t need stiff peaks; just ensure there’s enough air incorporated.
Step 3: Add the Sugars and Spices
Gradually add the brown sugar, white granulated sugar, kosher salt, cayenne pepper, and cinnamon to the egg white mixture. Stir gently until everything is well combined and a thick paste forms.
Step 4: Coat the Nuts
Add the mixed nuts to the bowl and use a rubber spatula to fold them into the sugary mixture. Make sure each nut is evenly coated for maximum flavor.
Step 5: Spread on Baking Sheet
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy removal later. Spread the coated nuts in a single layer on the sheet, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. This helps them to roast evenly.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the nuts in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through. Keep an eye on them as they can burn quickly. You want them to turn a beautiful golden brown.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Once the nuts are done baking, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet. As they cool, they will harden and become wonderfully crunchy. Once cooled, they’re ready to be enjoyed as your new favorite snack!
No-Store Runs Needed
You might be surprised to learn that you probably have most of the ingredients for these Sweet & Spicy Candied Nuts right in your pantry. Here’s a quick list of what you likely already have:
- Mixed nuts
- Brown sugar
- Granulated sugar
- Kosher salt
- Cinnamon
If you need to grab only a couple of items, it’s likely just the egg whites and cayenne pepper that you might need to purchase.
Things That Go Wrong
While making these Sweet & Spicy Candied Nuts is relatively straightforward, a few things can go awry:
- Burnt Nuts: Keep a close watch on the nuts towards the end of the baking time. They can go from perfectly roasted to burnt in a matter of minutes.
- Sticky Coating: If the nuts seem too sticky after baking, they may not have baked long enough. Ensure they cool completely before handling.
- Uneven Coverage: Make sure to coat the nuts thoroughly to avoid clumps of sugar. Stir well when mixing them in the bowl.
How to Store & Reheat
To keep your Sweet & Spicy Candied Nuts fresh and crunchy, follow these tips:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
- If they lose their crunch, reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Your Questions, Answered
Can I use different nuts for this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite nuts. Almonds, walnuts, pecans, and cashews all work wonderfully in this recipe.
Can I make Sweet & Spicy Candied Nuts ahead of time?
Yes! These nuts store well. You can make them a week in advance and keep them fresh in an airtight container.
What can I use these nuts for besides snacking?
These Sweet & Spicy Candied Nuts are perfect for topping salads, adding to yogurt or oatmeal, or even using them as a crunchy garnish for desserts like ice cream or cakes.
Can I adjust the level of spiciness?
Yes! If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper. You can also omit it entirely for a sweeter version of these candied nuts.
You Might Also Like
- Honey Garlic Chicken – A tasty, savory dish that’s perfect for weeknight meals.
- Mini Peanut Butter Cookies – A delightful treat that pairs wonderfully with your candied nuts.
See You at the Table
These Sweet & Spicy Candied Nuts are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. With their perfect blend of sweetness and heat, they’ll satisfy any craving and impress your guests. Whether you’re sharing them at a party or enjoying them solo as a snack, you won’t regret making this recipe. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to indulge in a batch of these delicious nuts that are as fun to make as they are to eat!
Sweet & Spicy Candied Nuts
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the egg whites and water. Whisk until frothy.
- Step 3: Gradually add the brown sugar, white granulated sugar, kosher salt, cayenne pepper, and cinnamon. Stir until a thick paste forms.
- Step 4: Add the mixed nuts and fold into the sugary mixture until each nut is coated.
- Step 5: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the coated nuts in a single layer.
- Step 6: Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through until golden brown.
- Step 7: Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely on the baking sheet.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
- If they lose their crunch, reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Feel free to mix and match different nuts based on your preference.
