Description
Sugar and Spice Candied Nuts are a delightful snack featuring a perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors. Coated with a mixture of brown and granulated sugar along with aromatic cinnamon and a hint of cayenne pepper, these nuts are baked to crunchy perfection. Ideal for snacking, gifting, or adding a flavorful crunch to salads and desserts.
Ingredients
Scale
Nuts
- 2 pounds nuts (any variety)
Coating Mixture
- 2 large egg whites (room temperature)
- 2 tablespoons water
- 2/3 cup brown sugar
- 1 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit (150 degrees Celsius) to prepare for baking the candied nuts.
- Prepare Nuts: Place 2 pounds of your choice of nuts into a large bowl, ensuring they are ready to be coated.
- Mix Egg White Coating: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 large room temperature egg whites and 2 tablespoons of water until frothy. Pour this mixture over the nuts and stir well to coat all nuts evenly, which helps the sugar mixture adhere better during baking.
- Combine Sugar and Spices: In a separate bowl, mix 2/3 cup brown sugar, 1 1/3 cup granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon kosher salt, 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper thoroughly to create the flavorful coating.
- Coat Nuts with Sugar Mixture: Pour the sugar and spice mixture over the coated nuts and stir well to ensure all nuts are evenly covered with the sweet and spicy blend.
- Arrange Nuts for Baking: Spread the coated nuts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Bake the Nuts: Bake the nuts in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes. This helps to cook them evenly and prevents burning.
- Cool and Separate: After baking, remove the nuts from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Carefully separate any nuts that have stuck together while warm.
- Store: Once completely cooled, store the candied nuts in an airtight container. They will keep fresh for 1 to 2 weeks, perfect for snacking or gifting.
Notes
- The cayenne pepper adds a spicy kick; adjust the amount based on your heat preference or omit for a milder flavor.
- Use any variety of nuts you like such as pecans, almonds, walnuts, or a mixed nuts blend.
- Ensure egg whites are at room temperature for easier whisking and better coating.
- Stirring every 10 minutes during baking is important to avoid burning and to evenly coat the nuts with the sugar mixture.
- Store in airtight containers to maintain freshness and crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: candied nuts, spiced nuts, sweet and spicy nuts, holiday snack, maple cinnamon nuts, baked nuts
