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Homemade Spiced Roasted Nuts

These spiced roasted nuts are a warm, crunchy snack infused with a blend of cinnamon, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. The nuts are tossed with oil and spices, then roasted until golden and fragrant, creating a comforting treat with a satisfying crunch and complex flavor profile. Perfect for snacking, gifting, or adding a cozy touch to your gatherings.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 220

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups mixed nuts almonds, cashews, pecans preferred
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar optional, for caramelization
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust for heat preference
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • to taste flaky sea salt

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Baking sheet with parchment or silicone mat
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spatula or large spoon
  • Cooling Rack

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup.
  2. Place the mixed nuts in a large mixing bowl, ensuring they’re spread out evenly.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, brown sugar, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and cinnamon until well combined. This mixture should be slightly thick and fragrant.
  4. Pour the spice mixture over the nuts and toss thoroughly with a spatula or large spoon, ensuring every nut is evenly coated with the spice blend.
  5. Spread the coated nuts in a single, even layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding to promote crispiness.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, shaking the pan or stirring the nuts halfway through to promote even roasting. Keep an eye on them as they turn golden and fragrant—this signals they’re ready.
  7. Once roasted, remove the nuts from the oven and immediately sprinkle with flaky sea salt while still warm for an extra burst of flavor.
  8. Transfer the nuts to a cooling rack and let them cool completely for about 10 minutes. They will become crispier as they cool down.
  9. Enjoy the crunchy, fragrant spiced nuts as a snack straight from the bowl, or store them in an airtight container for up to two weeks.

Notes

Feel free to customize the spice mix with cumin, vanilla, or chili powder for different flavor profiles. For a milder snack, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. Always watch the nuts closely in the last few minutes of baking to prevent burning.