Sugar and Spice Candied Nuts

The first time I made Sugar and Spice Candied Nuts, I was hosting a small gathering at my home. As friends arrived, the warm scent of the nuts filling the air immediately drew them to the kitchen. I vividly remember the laughter and chatter, punctuated by the crunch of those irresistible, sweet and spicy treats. They quickly became a favorite, disappearing within minutes. There’s something magical about the combination of sugar, spices, and nuts that creates an irresistible snack. This recipe holds a special place not only in my heart but also at every festive gathering. Whether it’s for Thanksgiving or a casual movie night, these candied nuts are always a hit. Making them is a delightful process, bringing warmth and joy into your kitchen. If you haven’t tried them yet, trust me when I say they’re worth every minute spent preparing them. You’ll find that once you take that first bite, you’ll be hooked!

There are so many reasons to love Sugar and Spice Candied Nuts. First of all, the flavors are simply phenomenal. The blend of dark brown sugar and granulated sugar creates a rich sweetness that perfectly complements the spices. Next, the addition of cinnamon and a pinch of cayenne pepper adds warmth and a surprising kick, making each bite a delightful experience. The versatility of these nuts is another reason to adore them. They can be made with walnuts, pecans, or cashews, allowing you to customize the recipe to your taste preferences. Additionally, they’re incredibly easy to prepare. Just gather your ingredients, bake, and enjoy! These nuts also make wonderful gifts. A jar filled with these crunchy treats is a heartfelt gesture that friends and family will appreciate. Finally, they are perfect for snacking and can be enjoyed at any time of day, making them a great addition to your pantry.

What You’ll Need for Sugar and Spice Candied Nuts

To create the perfect batch of Sugar and Spice Candied Nuts, you’ll need a delightful mix of ingredients that work in harmony. The sweetness from the sugars combined with the warmth of cinnamon and the kick of cayenne pepper create an irresistible flavor profile. Each component is essential to achieving the right balance, ensuring every bite is packed with deliciousness.

• ⅓ cup dark brown sugar: This brings a rich, deep sweetness and moisture.
• ⅔ cup granulated sugar: Adds extra sweetness for that perfect candy coating.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses warmth and depth to the flavor.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances flavors.
• Heaping pinch cayenne pepper: Provides a subtle kick that elevates the taste.
• 1 egg white: Acts as a binder to coat the nuts evenly.
• 1 tablespoon water: Helps to create the right consistency for the coating.
• 1 pound walnut or pecan halves or cashews, or a combination: The star of the show, providing crunch and heartiness.

How to Assemble Sugar and Spice Candied Nuts

Making Sugar and Spice Candied Nuts is a straightforward and enjoyable process that yields mouthwatering results. Just follow these simple steps for a batch that will have everyone coming back for more.

1. Preheat your oven to 300 degrees F. It’s important to start with a preheated oven to ensure even cooking. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the dark brown sugar, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, kosher salt, and cayenne pepper. Make sure there are no lumps in your sugar mixture, as you want an even coating for your nuts.
3. In a large bowl, whisk the egg white and water until it becomes very frothy. This frothiness will help the nuts stick to the sugar mixture beautifully.
4. Add the nuts to the bowl with the frothy egg white mixture, stirring to coat them evenly. Take your time to ensure every nut is covered in that delightful mixture.
5. Once coated, sprinkle the sugar mixture over the nuts. Toss them gently to ensure they are evenly coated with the sugar and spice blend.
6. Spread the nuts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Giving them space to breathe will help them crisp up nicely.
7. Bake for 30 minutes, stirring twice during the baking process. This will ensure even cooking and prevent burning. Keep an eye on them as they bake; the aroma will be irresistible!
8. After 30 minutes, remove the nuts from the oven. Stir and separate them as they cool on the baking sheet. This helps prevent sticking and promotes an even crunch.
9. Once completely cool, transfer the nuts to an airtight container or glass jars. They can be stored at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to 1 month, but I doubt they’ll last that long!

Ways to Customize

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are countless ways to customize your Sugar and Spice Candied Nuts. Get creative with flavors and add-ins for a unique twist. Here are some ideas to inspire you!

• Storage: Store your candied nuts in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They can last up to a month at room temperature.
• Freezing: Yes, you can freeze these nuts! Just make sure they are in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for several months.
• Spice Variations: Try different spices like ginger or nutmeg for a new flavor profile.
• Nut Combinations: Experiment with different nuts. Use a mix of almonds, hazelnuts, or pistachios for a diverse mix.
• Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of sugar to your liking, making them less sweet or even sugar-free using alternatives.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve these nuts on a cheese platter, with dried fruits, or as toppings for yogurt or ice cream.
• Flavor Enhancements: Add a splash of maple syrup or honey for an extra layer of flavor.

What to Pair With Sugar and Spice Candied Nuts

When it comes to serving Sugar and Spice Candied Nuts, the options are limitless! Here are some delightful ideas to elevate your snacking experience.

• Cheese Platters: Pair these candied nuts with a selection of cheeses for a perfect balance of sweet and savory.
• Seasonal Parties: Perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings, Christmas parties, or any autumn celebration, these nuts will impress your guests.
• Picnic Treats: They are a great addition to picnic baskets, adding crunch and flavor to your outdoor meals.
• Snack Bowls: Serve them in a decorative bowl for an elegant touch during movie nights or casual get-togethers.
• Breakfast Toppings: Sprinkle them over your morning oatmeal or yogurt for a delicious breakfast boost.
• Gift Giving: Pack them in jars for thoughtful, homemade gifts that friends and family will cherish.
• Holiday Treats: Include them in holiday gift bags alongside other homemade goodies for a festive touch.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Sugar and Spice Candied Nuts recipe is a delightful blend of sweet and spicy flavors that create an irresistible snack. With their easy preparation and customizable nature, they are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive gathering. I encourage you to try this recipe yourself; it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy the crunchy goodness and the smiles they bring to your friends and family!

Sugar and Spice Candied Nuts

The ultimate snack for any occasion, Sugar and Spice Candied Nuts combines sweet and spicy flavors in a crunchy treat. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in, these nuts are a delightful mix of flavors that will keep everyone coming back for more. Make them tonight for a deliciously addictive snack!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Snack

Cuisine American

Servings 24 servings

Calories 220 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet
• Wooden Spoon
• Whisk
• Oven

Ingredients

  

• ⅓ cup dark brown sugar
• ⅔ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• Heaping pinch cayenne pepper
• 1 egg white at room temperature
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 pound walnut or pecan halves or cashews or a combination

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 300 degrees F. It's important to start with a preheated oven to ensure even cooking. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
• In a medium bowl, whisk together the dark brown sugar, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, kosher salt, and cayenne pepper. Make sure there are no lumps in your sugar mixture, as you want an even coating for your nuts.
• In a large bowl, whisk the egg white and water until it becomes very frothy. This frothiness will help the nuts stick to the sugar mixture beautifully.
• Add the nuts to the bowl with the frothy egg white mixture, stirring to coat them evenly. Take your time to ensure every nut is covered in that delightful mixture.
• Once coated, sprinkle the sugar mixture over the nuts. Toss them gently to ensure they are evenly coated with the sugar and spice blend.
• Spread the nuts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Giving them space to breathe will help them crisp up nicely.
• Bake for 30 minutes, stirring twice during the baking process. This will ensure even cooking and prevent burning. Keep an eye on them as they bake; the aroma will be irresistible!
• After 30 minutes, remove the nuts from the oven. Stir and separate them as they cool on the baking sheet. This helps prevent sticking and promotes an even crunch.
• Once completely cool, transfer the nuts to an airtight container or glass jars. They can be stored at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to 1 month, but I doubt they’ll last that long!

Notes

Tips: Nutritional values are based on one serving.

Keyword Candied Nuts Recipe, Easy Nut Snack, Homemade Candied Nuts, Sugar and Spice Nuts

Previous PostSalted Caramel Magic Bars

Next Post Shrimp Sauce

Meet Bella Banks

I’m the one who makes sure we’re having fun while we work. I love the communal aspect of cooking seven friends in a kitchen can be chaotic, but it’s the best kind of chaos! I cook everything alongside the girls, and I’m often the one setting the table and making sure the “vibe” is right for our photos. I believe that any recipe, no matter how simple or complex, is a celebration.