Are you ready to elevate your snacking game with a tantalizing twist? Meet the "Spicy Chili Oil Candied Nuts" — a delightful blend of sweet, spicy, and savory that will have your taste buds dancing! Perfect for parties, movie nights, or simply indulging yourself, this recipe transforms ordinary mixed nuts into an irresistible treat that’s hard to resist. With just a handful of ingredients and a quick 30-minute preparation time, you’ll be savoring these crunchy delights in no time. Get ready to impress your friends and family with a snack that’s as addictive as it is delicious!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 cups
Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed nuts
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons chili oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed nuts, maple syrup, chili oil, salt, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder. Stir thoroughly to ensure each nut is evenly coated with the spicy-sweet mixture.
- Spread the coated nuts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not clustered together to allow even roasting and caramelization.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, stirring the nuts every 5-7 minutes to prevent burning and ensure uniform coating and crispness.
- Remove the nuts from the oven when they are golden brown and have a glossy, caramelized appearance. The nuts will continue to crisp up as they cool.
- Allow the nuts to cool completely on the baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes. During this time, the syrup will harden and create a crisp, spicy-sweet coating.
- Once cooled, break apart any clusters and transfer the nuts to an airtight container for storage. They will remain crisp and flavorful for up to 2 weeks.
Tips
- Choose Your Nuts Wisely: While mixed nuts work great, you can customize your blend with your favorites like almonds, cashews, or pecans for a unique flavor profile.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder kick, reduce the cayenne pepper or omit it altogether. Conversely, for an extra fiery punch, feel free to add more!
- Keep an Eye on the Oven: Nuts can go from perfectly roasted to burnt quickly. Stir them every 5-7 minutes to ensure even cooking and prevent any unwanted char.
- Let Them Cool: Allow the nuts to cool completely on the baking sheet. This step is crucial as it helps the syrup harden, giving the nuts that delightful crunch.
- Storage Secrets: To maintain their crispiness, store the nuts in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 weeks—if they last that long!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
