These sweet and spicy mixed nuts are easy to make and VERY easy to eat. They’re sweet, savory, and just spicy enough to make them horribly addictive. Happy Holidays!
Ok, so let’s catch up on some life stuff real quick. Thanksgiving was great – fun family time (including adorable niece who says all the adorable things), delicious food, LOOOOOONG weekend. Post Thanksgiving turkey ramen was also pretty rad – you can read all about that situation right over here. And in other news…WE’RE GOING TO HAVE A BABY!!!!!!!
Obviously we’re pretty excited, and I’ve been dying to share this secret with the world for the past few months. But alas, discretion was warranted, and dammit if I was ever discrete! But now that we’re further along I’m proud to announce that come spring of 2020, our party of four (and I’m obviously including the cats in that count) will become a Party of FIVE!
So, now that you know all the good and exciting news, perhaps it makes slightly more sense that while other food bloggers are ramping up for the busiest time of the year I have been slowing things way down. Don’t worry though, there will still be plenty of delicious holiday treats in the coming weeks, just maybe simpler and less extravagant than if I didn’t have an adorable stowaway hanging out in my body and conducting business as though they owned the joint.
For special occasions like showers or birthday parties, you can serve nuts in tiny mason jars. Not only does this alleviate contamination concerns, but it also makes for easier snacking. Feel free to customize the jars with the date of the celebration and a ribbon.
How to Make Sweet and Spicy Mixed Nuts
This seriously couldn’t be easier. Make a batch on a lazy afternoon – it’s the perfect recipe for commercial breaks.
- Preheat your oven to 300°F – this is always the first step, remember?
- Whisk the spices, salt, brown sugar, and olive oil in a large bowl until well combined.
- Add the nuts and toss until everything is evenly coated in your sweet and spicy mixture.
- Spread the nuts onto a rimmed baking sheet, in one even layer.
- Pop the sheet in the oven and bake, stirring every 15 minutes, until the nuts are golden brown – about 45 minutes total
- Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet. Serve right away (warm is fine), or store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
Tips for Making Sweet and Spicy Mixed Nuts
Holidays are stressful, tips are helpful. Let’s get to tipping!
- If you’re nervous about the spice level, pull back on the cayenne by half. You can always taste the nuts before they go into the oven and adjust as necessary.
- Make sure to mix up your spices before you introduce the nuts to the party – this will make sure every nut gets well and evenly coated.
- Bake these on the middle rack for even cooking.
- Feel free to adjust the temp down by 15 or 25 degrees if your oven tends to run hot, or if you just want a little extra insurance against burned nuts.
- To the point above: Do keep an eye on these (especially in the last 15 minutes of cooking). Roasted nuts are great, burned nuts, not so much.
Warm Nuts quick party appetizer | SAM THE COOKING GUY
FAQ
How do you serve nuts to guests?
Can I leave nuts out in a bowl?
How many nuts is one serve?
How do you make party nuts?
These sweet and savory party nuts are lightly sweetened, have a touch of spice and are absolutely addicting. They are the perfect snack to serve at a holiday party or make for an easy DIY gift. Preheat oven to 350°F and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Mix maple, salt, cinnamon and cayenne in a small bowl.
What can you do with a nut?
Versatile: So many ways to enjoy! You could serve these nuts with cocktails, as a topping for salads, or just enjoy them as a tasty snack on their own. Perfect for gifting: With the holidays being just around the corner, these sweet and spicy nuts make a thoughtful and delicious gift for friends and family.
Are party nuts a good gift?
Pro tip: Just make sure to let the nuts cool completely before adding them to a jar for gifting. These sweet and savory party nuts are lightly sweetened, have a touch of spice and are absolutely addicting. They are the perfect snack to serve at a holiday party or make for an easy DIY gift.
Do party Nuts get Along with cocktails?
They get along with cocktails pretty well, too. The perfect party nuts are a tease. They tempt you (and your lucky guests) with a lot of crunch and a little sweetness, keep you coming back for more of its saltiness, and sneak in a little heat right under your noses.