🎄 Holiday Spiced Nuts

📋 Basic Information

• Servings: 12 portions (about 3 cups)

• Total Time: 35 minutes (10 min prep + 25 min bake)

• Skill Level: Easy

🛒 Ingredients

• 3 cups (400 g) mixed nuts (almonds, pecans, cashews, walnuts)

• 2 tbsp (30 g) unsalted butter, melted

• 2 tbsp (30 ml) maple syrup or honey

• 2 tbsp (25 g) brown sugar

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• ½ tsp ground nutmeg

• ½ tsp ground ginger

• ¼ tsp ground cloves

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Mix coating: In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, maple syrup, brown sugar, and spices.

3. Add nuts: Toss mixed nuts into the bowl until evenly coated.

4. Spread on tray: Arrange nuts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

5. Bake: Roast for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway, until golden and fragrant.

6. Cool & serve: Allow nuts to cool completely before breaking apart and serving.

💡 Notes and Tips

• Serving: Perfect for holiday parties, edible gifts, or as a snack with mulled wine.

• Variations: Use only one type of nut (like pecans), or add dried cranberries for festive sweetness.

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

🌱 Benefits & Vitamins

• Nuts: Excellent source of protein, fiber, vitamin E, magnesium, and healthy fats.

• Spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves): Provide antioxidants and aid digestion.

• Maple syrup/honey: Natural sweeteners with trace minerals.

✨ Extra Tips

• For extra crunch, sprinkle a little coarse sea salt after baking.

• Add orange zest to the spice mix for a citrusy holiday twist.

• Package cooled nuts in festive jars or bags for homemade gifts.

🔍 Top FAQ

Q1: Can I make holiday spiced nuts ahead of time? Yes, they store well for up to 2 weeks in an airtight container.

Q2: Can I use raw nuts for this recipe? Yes, roasting them with the spice mix will cook them perfectly.

Q3: How do I keep spiced nuts crunchy? Cool completely before storing, and avoid humid environments.

Q4: Can I make holiday spiced nuts without sugar? Yes, use only maple syrup or honey for natural sweetness.

Q5: Are holiday spiced nuts healthy? Yes, they’re nutrient-rich, but enjoy in moderation due to added sweeteners.