Sugar And Spice Nuts
Sweet and spicy, these Sugar and Spice Nuts are a crunchy, flavorful treat perfect for holiday gatherings or gifting. The combination of salted mixed nuts coated in cinnamon sugar creates a delightful snack with warm, aromatic flavors that appeal to both sweet and savory cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 300°F.
- In large bowl, combine the mixed nuts and melted butter; set aside.
- In a small bowl, blend the sugar and ground cinnamon.
- Stir the cinnamon sugar mixture into the nut mixture until evenly coated.
- Spread the nut mixture evenly on an ungreased baking sheet.
- Bake, stirring occasionally, for 40 minutes or until nuts are golden.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider using a mix of nuts like pecans, almonds, and cashews. You can substitute brown sugar for a deeper caramel flavor or try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. Make sure to stir the nuts occasionally as they bake to ensure even roasting and prevent burning. For a sweeter twist, replace cinnamon with pumpkin pie spice.
Serving Suggestions
These Sugar And Spice Nuts make a fantastic snack on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a cheese platter or a charcuterie board. Serve them alongside drinks at a party for a delightful treat that complements cocktails. You can also use them as a topping for salads or yogurt for added texture and flavor. For dessert lovers, they are a great accompaniment to Leche Quemada.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Sugar And Spice Nuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If they lose their crunch, reheat them in a 300°F oven for about 5-10 minutes. This will restore their crispness and refresh the flavors. For longer storage, consider freezing them, but ensure they are well sealed to prevent freezer burn.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sugar And Spice Nuts contains roughly 1265 calories, with 19g protein, 140g carbohydrates, and 76g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (38% of the Daily Value), protein (37% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. 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 unsalted nuts instead of salted?
Yes, using unsalted nuts is perfectly fine! Just be aware that the final flavor will be less salty, so you may want to adjust the sugar or add a pinch of salt to enhance the overall taste. Unsalted nuts can also provide a blank canvas for other seasonings, allowing you to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
How do I know when the nuts are done baking?
The nuts are done when they are golden brown and fragrant, typically after about 40 minutes of baking. Stirring occasionally helps ensure they cook evenly. Keep a close eye in the last few minutes, as nuts can quickly go from perfect to burnt. If unsure, taste one to check for the right crunch and flavor.
Can I add other spices or flavors to the recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment by adding spices like nutmeg, ginger, or even vanilla extract for a different flavor profile. Adding dried fruits like cranberries or apricots after baking can also provide a nice contrast to the spiced nuts. Customize based on your preferences or the season for an exciting twist!
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).