Holiday Cashews
Sweet, spicy, and crunchy cashews coated with warm pumpkin pie spice and raisins, perfect for snacking or gifting during the holidays.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the raw cashews and butter in a skillet.
- Cook over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, then stir in the pumpkin pie spice.
- Continue cooking and stirring for an additional 3 minutes.
- Add raisins and toss to coat evenly.
- Spread the mixture on foil to cool completely before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using ghee instead of butter. If you prefer a sweeter touch, consider adding a tablespoon of maple syrup or honey after cooking. If pumpkin pie spice isn't available, a combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger can work as an alternative. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
These Holiday Cashews are perfect as a festive snack on their own or can be served alongside cheese platters. They pair beautifully with Edwardian English Muffins for a delightful brunch. For an added treat, serve them with a side of dark chocolate for a sweet and salty combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Holiday Cashews in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them, which can extend their freshness for up to two weeks. Reheat in a skillet over low heat to restore their crunchiness before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Holiday Cashews contains roughly 707 calories, with 16g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (79% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (34% of the Daily Value), and protein (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. It also contributes 9g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 roasted cashews instead of raw?
Yes, you can use roasted cashews, but reduce the cooking time to prevent them from burning. Roasted cashews will add a deeper flavor, so adjust the pumpkin pie spice to taste since they may not absorb the flavor as well as raw cashews.
Is there a nut-free alternative for this recipe?
If you're looking for a nut-free option, consider using sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds in place of cashews. The cooking process will remain the same, but be mindful of the cooking time as seeds may toast quicker than nuts.
Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment by adding dried cranberries, chopped dark chocolate, or even a sprinkle of sea salt for added flavor. Just be sure to balance the sweetness and spice to keep the overall taste harmonious.
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).