These spiced nuts are incredibly easy to make and are perfect for snacking, parties, or as a thoughtful homemade gift. One autumn afternoon, while the leaves were turning vibrant shades of gold and red, I decided to whip up a batch of spiced nuts for a cozy gathering with friends. The warm, inviting aroma filled my kitchen, and the nuts were an instant hit! From that day on, this spiced nuts recipe became a staple in my home, especially during the holiday season.
These spiced nuts aren’t just delicious; they’re also versatile. Sprinkle them over salads, add them to your favorite trail mix, or incorporate them into baked goods for an extra crunch. Trust me, once you try this simple recipe, you’ll be making it again and again. It’s a real crowd-pleaser, and it always brings a smile to people’s faces, just like it did for my friends that crisp fall day.
Why You’ll Love This Spiced Nuts Recipe
This Spiced Nuts recipe is a true winner for several reasons. The blend of sweet maple syrup, fragrant rosemary, and warm spices creates a flavor explosion that’s both comforting and exciting. The nuts offer a satisfying crunch, making them the perfect snack for any occasion. Plus, the recipe is incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort and simple ingredients. It’s a fuss-free treat that everyone will adore.
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Spiced Nuts
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Yield: About 5 cups
Description
Enjoy a sweet and savory snack with these easy spiced nuts. A delightful blend of maple syrup, rosemary, and spices coats a mix of almonds, pecans, cashews, pistachios, and pumpkin seeds. Perfect for parties, gifts, or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw almonds
- 1 cup raw pecans
- 1 cup raw cashews
- ¾ cup raw shelled pistachios
- ⅔ cup raw pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1¼ teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ¾ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Flaky sea salt (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Lightly coat a baking sheet with nonstick spray.
- Whisk together maple syrup, rosemary, curry powder, salt, and cayenne pepper.
- Add nuts and pumpkin seeds to the bowl and toss until coated.
- Spread nuts on the baking sheet, sprinkle with flaky salt (optional), and bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown.
- Cool completely on the baking sheet before storing in an airtight container.
Notes
For a richer flavor, toast the nuts lightly before adding the spice mixture. If you don’t have maple syrup, honey or agave nectar can be substituted, but the flavor profile will change slightly. For a spicier kick, increase the cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredient Lowdown
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful spiced nuts recipe:
- 1 cup raw almonds
- 1 cup raw pecans
- 1 cup raw cashews
- ¾ cup raw shelled pistachios
- ⅔ cup raw pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1¼ teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ¾ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Flaky sea salt (optional, for an extra touch of salty goodness)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Lightly coat a baking sheet with nonstick spray. This will prevent the nuts from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, dried rosemary, curry powder, kosher salt, and cayenne pepper. Make sure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the syrup.
Step 3: Coat the Nuts
Add the almonds, pecans, cashews, pistachios, and pumpkin seeds to the bowl. Toss everything together until the nuts are completely coated in the spiced syrup mixture.
Step 4: Bake
Spread the coated nuts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. If desired, sprinkle a bit of flaky sea salt over the nuts for an extra burst of flavor. Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring a couple of times during baking, until the nuts are toasted and golden brown.
Step 5: Cool and Store
Let the nuts cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container. This helps maintain their crispness. Store the spiced nuts at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Pro Tips
Here are a few tips to help you make the most delicious spiced nuts:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your preference. For a milder flavor, use black pepper instead.
- Pumpkin Seeds: Raw, unsalted pumpkin seeds (pepitas) are ideal, but roasted unsalted pepitas will work fine too. You can find them in the bulk bin section of many grocery stores. For more snack ideas, check out our Desserts page.
- Cooling is Key: It’s essential to let the nuts cool completely on the baking sheet before storing them. This prevents them from becoming soggy and helps maintain their crunchy texture.
Recipe Variations
- Sweet and Spicy: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the spice mixture for a warmer, sweeter flavor profile. Try our delicious Breakfast recipes.
- Savory and Smoky: Substitute smoked paprika for the curry powder to create a smoky, savory twist.
- Herby Delight: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, oregano, or sage.
- Honey-Glazed: Swap the maple syrup for honey for a different kind of sweetness.
Can I use different types of nuts?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite nuts, such as walnuts, macadamia nuts, or Brazil nuts. Just keep the total amount of nuts roughly the same.
How do I store the spiced nuts?
Once the nuts have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, these spiced nuts are perfect for making ahead of time. Prepare them a few days in advance and store them in an airtight container until ready to serve.
What can I serve these spiced nuts with?
These spiced nuts are delicious on their own as a snack, but they also make a great addition to cheese boards, salads, or yogurt parfaits. You can also use them as a topping for baked goods or as part of a trail mix.
Serving Suggestions
- Snack Time: Enjoy these spiced nuts by the handful as a satisfying snack. They’re a great source of protein and healthy fats.
- Party Appetizer: Serve them in a pretty bowl as a party appetizer. Your guests will love the irresistible flavor combination.
- Salad Topper: Sprinkle the spiced nuts over your favorite salad for added crunch and flavor. Try our Lunch recipes!
- Gift Idea: Package the spiced nuts in a decorative jar and give them as a thoughtful homemade gift.
Final Thoughts
This spiced nuts recipe is quick, easy, and utterly delicious. It’s a perfect snack or appetizer for any occasion, and the variations are endless. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a batch of these irresistible spiced nuts. Don’t forget to check out our Dinner recipes for more culinary inspiration. Share your spiced nuts creations on social media! Find me on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and Twitter/X.
