Get ready to elevate your snacking game with our Sweet and Smoky Bar Nuts! Perfectly roasted and bursting with flavor, these nuts are the ultimate combination of sweet and savory that will leave your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a cozy movie night, or simply craving a delicious snack, this recipe is sure to impress. With just a handful of ingredients and a quick 30-minute prep time, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing treat that’s as easy to make as it is irresistible. Trust us, once you try these, you’ll never look at nuts the same way again!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed nuts
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed nuts, ensuring an even distribution of different nut varieties like almonds, cashews, pecans, and walnuts.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt until well combined and no lumps remain.
- Drizzle olive oil over the mixed nuts and toss thoroughly to ensure each nut is lightly coated.
- Sprinkle the spice mixture over the oiled nuts, using your hands or a spatula to mix and coat every nut evenly with the sweet and smoky seasoning.
- Spread the seasoned nuts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded to allow even roasting.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, stirring once halfway through to prevent burning and ensure uniform toasting.
- Remove from the oven when nuts are golden brown and fragrant, with a deep, rich color and a crisp texture.
- Allow nuts to cool completely on the baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes. They will continue to crisp up as they cool.
- Transfer to a serving bowl or storage container. These nuts can be served warm or at room temperature as a snack or appetizer.
Tips
- Choose Your Nuts Wisely: Feel free to mix and match your favorite nuts! Almonds, cashews, pecans, and walnuts all work beautifully together, but don’t hesitate to experiment with other varieties like hazelnuts or macadamia nuts for a unique twist.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the cayenne pepper to half a teaspoon or omit it altogether. For those who love a kick, consider adding a pinch of chili powder for extra heat.
- Don’t Rush the Roasting: Keep a close eye on the nuts as they roast. They can go from perfectly golden to burnt in a matter of minutes, so stir them halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Cool for Crispiness: Allow the nuts to cool completely on the baking sheet. This step is crucial as it helps them achieve that perfect crunchy texture.
- Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also make a larger batch ahead of time for easy snacking throughout the week!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 0mg
