These Holiday Spiced Nuts are a delightful blend of sweet, savory, and warm spices, perfect for festive gatherings or gift-giving. With a crunchy texture and a flavor profile that combines cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of cayenne, these nuts offer a satisfying snack that complements the holiday season. Whether served at a party, enjoyed by the fire, or packaged as a thoughtful homemade gift, these nuts are sure to be a hit with friends and family.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups mixed nuts (pecans, almonds, walnuts, and cashews)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Add the mixed nuts to the bowl and toss them in the spice mixture until evenly coated.
- Spread the nuts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the nuts are toasted and fragrant.
- Remove from the oven and let the spiced nuts cool completely on the baking sheet. They will become crisp as they cool.
- Once cool, store the nuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Enjoy these spiced nuts as a snack or garnish, or package them up in festive jars for a homemade holiday gift!
