Crisp Spiced Nuts
Crisp spiced nuts combine sweet, savory, and smoky flavors with a crunchy texture, perfect for snacking or gifting to friends and family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a bowl with an electric mixer, beat egg whites with salt until very foamy.
- Gradually beat in sugar, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, and cayenne.
- Stir in almonds, hazelnuts, pecans, and melted cooled butter, combining well.
- Spread the nut mixture in a large shallow baking pan.
- Bake nuts in the middle of the oven, stirring every 10 minutes, until crisp and golden, about 30 to 40 minutes.
- Spread nuts on a sheet of foil and cool.
- Break up nut clusters before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the spice mix. If you prefer a less spicy version, reduce the cayenne pepper or omit it altogether. You can substitute the nuts with other varieties like walnuts or peanuts, but ensure they are blanched for the best texture. This recipe is versatile, so feel free to adjust the spices to your taste.
Serving Suggestions
These Crisp Spiced Nuts make a fantastic snack on their own or served alongside a cheese platter. They also pair beautifully with Asparagus On Cheese Toast for a delightful appetizer. For a sweet touch, serve them alongside desserts like Gooey Butter Cakes, or package them as gifts in decorative jars for friends and family.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover spiced nuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. To maintain their crispiness, avoid refrigerating them as moisture can make them soggy. If you need to re-crisp them, simply spread them on a baking sheet and warm them in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crisp Spiced Nuts contains roughly 451 calories, with 14g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (132% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (65% of the Daily Value), and iron (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 687mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of nuts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a variety of nuts based on your preference. Just ensure they are blanched and adjust the baking time if you're using larger nuts like walnuts. Mixing in seeds such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds can add a nice crunch and flavor as well.
How do I know when the nuts are done baking?
The nuts are done when they are golden brown and emit a fragrant aroma, which usually takes about 30 to 40 minutes. Be sure to stir them every 10 minutes to ensure even baking and prevent burning. Keep a close eye towards the end of the baking time.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! These spiced nuts can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container. They maintain their flavor and crispness for up to two weeks, making them perfect for parties or as a snack to have on hand.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).