Sweet & Spicy Candied Cashews
Candied Cashews
Candied cashews are a delightful snack that blends sweet and savory flavors. They are perfect for any occasion, from a simple movie night at home to a festive gathering with friends. These crunchy nuts are not only delicious but also quite easy to make, making them a great addition to your snack repertoire.
Why Make This Recipe
Creating your own candied cashews at home allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavors to your liking. The combination of honey, lime juice, and a hint of chipotle powder adds a unique twist to traditional candied nuts. Plus, they make for an excellent homemade gift or a tasty party treat that everyone will enjoy.
How to Make Candied Cashews
Making candied cashews is a straightforward process that requires only a few simple steps. Just follow the actions outlined below, and you’ll have a delicious snack ready in no time.
Ingredients:
- 32 ounces whole roasted unsalted cashews (about 6 ½ to 7 cups)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (such as canola), plus more for oiling pan
- ⅓ cup packed light brown sugar
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
- 2 teaspoons ground chipotle powder or ground chipotle chile pepper
- 2 teaspoons sea salt, plus more to taste
Directions:
-
Prepare the oven and pan
Position the rack in the center of the oven and preheat it to 350°F. Lightly oil a large rimmed sheet pan and set it aside. -
Mix cashews and oil
In a large bowl, combine the cashews with canola oil. Mix well to coat the cashews evenly. -
Prepare the coating mixture
In a small bowl or large measuring cup, whisk together the brown sugar, honey, lime juice, chipotle powder, and salt until everything is combined. -
Coat the cashews
Pour the prepared coating mixture over the cashews and toss them to ensure they are evenly coated. -
Spread and bake
Spread the coated cashews onto the prepared sheet pan. Bake for 24 minutes, stirring every 8 minutes to ensure even cooking. -
Finish baking and glaze
After 24 minutes, bake for a few additional minutes until the nuts are glazed and golden brown. The total baking time should be between 25 to 30 minutes. -
Cool and season
Remove the pan from the oven, and transfer the nuts to a clean sheet pan using a slotted spoon or spatula. Stir every 1 to 2 minutes until they are cool. Taste and adjust the salt if needed. -
Store
Once completely cooled, store the nuts in an airtight container at room temperature for freshness.
How to Serve Candied Cashews
Candied cashews can be served on their own as a snack, mixed into trail mix, or used as a crunchy topping for salads and desserts. They are a versatile addition to any food platter and can brighten up any gathering.
How to Store Candied Cashews
To keep your candied cashews fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should remain delicious for up to two weeks, but they’re likely to be eaten well before then!
Tips to Make Candied Cashews
- Make sure to stir the cashews regularly while baking to prevent burning.
- Adjust the amount of chipotle powder according to your spice preference.
- For an extra touch, consider adding cinnamon or vanilla to the coating mixture for different flavor profiles.
Variation
Feel free to experiment with different nuts or sweeteners. You can replace cashews with almonds, pecans, or walnuts, and try using maple syrup instead of honey for a different taste.
FAQs
-
Can I use unsalted cashews?
Yes, using unsalted cashews is perfectly fine. Just adjust the salt in the recipe to your taste. -
How do I know when the cashews are done baking?
The cashews should be a deep golden brown and glazed. Stirring frequently will help you get an even color. -
Can I make these candied cashews ahead of time?
Definitely! These cashews can be made a few days in advance and are perfect for snacking or gifting.
Enjoy making and sharing these delicious candied cashews!
Candied Cashews
Ingredients
For the Candied Cashews
- 32 ounces whole roasted unsalted cashews (about 6 ½ to 7 cups) Use unsalted for better control over saltiness.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (such as canola), plus more for oiling pan This will help coat the cashews.
- ⅓ cup packed light brown sugar Provides sweetness and caramelization.
- ¼ cup honey Can be substituted with maple syrup for variation.
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice Adds tanginess.
- 2 teaspoons ground chipotle powder or ground chipotle chile pepper Adjust based on preference for spice.
- 2 teaspoons sea salt, plus more to taste Enhances overall flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Position the rack in the center of the oven and preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Lightly oil a large rimmed sheet pan and set it aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the cashews with canola oil. Mix well to coat the cashews evenly.
- In a small bowl or large measuring cup, whisk together the brown sugar, honey, lime juice, chipotle powder, and salt until everything is combined.
Baking
- Pour the prepared coating mixture over the cashews and toss them to ensure they are evenly coated.
- Spread the coated cashews onto the prepared sheet pan. Bake for 24 minutes, stirring every 8 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- After 24 minutes, bake for a few additional minutes until the nuts are glazed and golden brown. The total baking time should be between 25 to 30 minutes.
- Remove the pan from the oven, and transfer the nuts to a clean sheet pan using a slotted spoon or spatula. Stir every 1 to 2 minutes until they are cool. Taste and adjust the salt if needed.
