Sweet Spiced Nuts
Sweet spiced nuts with warm cinnamon, allspice, cloves, and nutmeg offer a crunchy, flavorful snack perfect for parties, gifts, or a cozy treat with coffee.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 2-quart casserole, combine brown sugar, water, salt, cinnamon, allspice, cloves, and nutmeg.
- Cook at high for 1 to 1 1/2 minutes or until sugar is melted; stir in nuts.
- Cook at high for 4 to 5 minutes or until syrup begins to harden.
- Immediately pour the nut mixture onto a buttered cookie sheet.
- Spread the nuts thinly on the sheet.
- Cool completely; break into small pieces.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of nuts like almonds and pecans. If you're short on time, you can substitute granulated sugar for brown sugar, though the flavor will differ slightly. Be sure to stir the mixture thoroughly to prevent burning. If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. This recipe also makes a delightful addition to Sweet Snacks.
Serving Suggestions
These Sweet Spiced Nuts make a fantastic snack on their own but can also be served as a topping for salads or desserts. They pair beautifully with Gladys' Easy Party Punch for a festive gathering. Consider incorporating them into a cheese platter or alongside fruits for a delightful contrast of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Sweet Spiced Nuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them, though they may lose some crispness. If you want to reheat them, spread the nuts on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet Spiced Nuts contains roughly 839 calories, with 27g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 69g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (72% of the Daily Value), protein (54% of the Daily Value), and iron (30% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use any combination of nuts such as walnuts, cashews, or pecans. Each type will add a unique flavor and texture, so feel free to experiment with your favorites.
How do I know when the syrup is ready?
The syrup is ready when it begins to harden and becomes sticky. This usually takes about 4 to 5 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
Can I make these nuts in advance for a party?
Yes, these Sweet Spiced Nuts can be made ahead of time! Just store them in an airtight container, and they will stay fresh for up to two weeks. They make a great snack for gatherings or can be packaged as gifts.
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).