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Sugar and Spice Candied Nuts Recipe


  • Author: Aiden
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 8 cups of candied nuts 1x

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

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit (150 degrees Celsius) to prepare for baking the candied nuts.
  2. Prepare Nuts: Place 2 pounds of your choice of nuts into a large bowl, ensuring they are ready to be coated.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.
  9. 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