Homemade Spiced Nuts

Shopping list

• 400 g mixed raw nuts — such as almonds, pecans, walnuts, and cashews

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• 2 tablespoons maple syrup or clear honey

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• 1 tablespoon melted butter or neutral vegetable oil — the coating fat

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• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika — the spices & seasoning

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• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

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• 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon

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• 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper or chilli powder — adjust to taste for heat

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• 1.5 teaspoons sea salt flakes

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• 1 tablespoon light brown soft sugar — helps create a wonderful caramelised crust

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Step by step

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 160°C (140°C Fan / Gas Mark 3). Line a large baking tray with baking parchment or a silicone mat.

2. 2

   In a large bowl, whisk together the maple syrup (or honey), melted butter (or oil), and brown sugar until smooth.

3. 3

   Tip the mixed raw nuts into the bowl and toss thoroughly until every nut is evenly coated in the sticky syrup mixture.

4. 4

   Sprinkle the smoked paprika, ground cumin, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, and sea salt flakes directly over the nuts. Toss again until the spices form a rich, even coating over all the nuts.

5. 5

   Tip the coated nuts onto your prepared baking tray and spread them out into a single, even layer so they roast uniformly rather than steam.

6. 6

   Place in the oven and roast for 20 to 25 minutes. Give them a good stir every 7 to 8 minutes to prevent the edges from burning, keeping a close eye on them during the final minutes as sugar can catch quickly.

7. 7

   Remove from the oven and let the nuts cool completely on the tray without disturbing them. As they cool, the coating will harden and turn wonderfully crisp.

8. 8

   Break apart any clusters once cooled completely, then serve in bowls or store in an airtight glass jar for up to two weeks.