Rum Cashews
Sweet and boozy rum-coated cashews create a crunchy, caramelized treat perfect for snacking or gifting, with rich flavors of rum and buttery caramelized sugar.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar and rum in a medium-sized saucepan.
- Bring to a boil; cook for 3 minutes or until 234°F on a candy thermometer.
- Remove from heat. Immediately add cashews and stir to coat.
- Return to medium heat and stir constantly to re-melt the sugar.
- When sugar is golden brown, remove from heat and stir in butter.
- Spread on a well-oiled cookie sheet to dry.
- Break apart with a fork.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the perfect caramelization, ensure your sugar and rum mixture reaches 234°F without stirring while it boils. If you want a less intense rum flavor, consider substituting half of the rum with water or apple juice. For a unique twist, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon for added warmth. This recipe is similar to American recipes that feature sweet and savory combinations.
Serving Suggestions
These Rum Cashews make a delightful snack on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a cheese platter or as a topping for salads. For a festive treat, serve them alongside Easy Mustard Breadsticks during gatherings. They can also be a fun addition to a dessert board with treats like Pilgrim Pumpkin Bars and Milk Chocolate Popcorn.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Rum Cashews in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them crunchy, avoid refrigerating them as humidity can cause them to lose their crispness. If they become soft, you can re-crisp them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rum Cashews contains roughly 352 calories, with 6g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. It also contributes 4g 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 a different type of nut in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute cashews with other nuts such as almonds or pecans. Just keep in mind that different nuts may have varying cooking times, so adjust accordingly to ensure they are perfectly coated and roasted.
Is there a way to make this recipe without alcohol?
Certainly! You can replace the rum with a combination of vanilla extract and a splash of apple juice or coconut water. This will mimic the sweetness and flavor profile without the alcohol, making it suitable for all ages.
How can I make these cashews more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding spices like smoked paprika or garlic powder to the sugar mixture before boiling. You can also toss the finished cashews with sea salt or crushed herbs for an extra flavor dimension. Experimenting with spices can elevate your snack experience.
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).