Sweet & Savory Mixed Nuts

Mixed nuts are always popular with the drinking crowd, the saltiness a complimentary balance to the complexity of flavors and/or sweetness of beer and cocktails. Toasting the nuts with a sweet glaze and a variety of savory spices elevates these delicious snacks to stand out on their own, making them an excellent choice to serve at any party. They were a huge hit at our neighborhood Christmas get together last year, which we threw together somewhat last minute, so being able to make these ahead, allowing me to prioritize cooking and other tasks the day of was a huge bonus. Once you gather all of your ingredients and mix up your spice blend, these mixed nuts come together quickly with minimal prep time and the oven does the majority of the work. They also make great gifts!

INGREDIENTS

• 1 Cup Toasted Almonds see notes below
• 2 Cups Pecan Halves
• 1 Cup Brazil Nuts
• 1- ½ Cups Cashews
• 2 oz. Simple Syrup
• 1 Tbsp. Corn Syrup
• 1 Tbsp. Avocado Oil
• Avocado Spray or other neutral oil

Spice Blend

• 4 Tbsp. Turbinado Sugar
• 2 Tbsp. Light Brown Sugar
• 1 Tbsp. Kosher Salt
• 1 tsp. Table Salt
• 1-½ tsp. Cumin
• 1-½ tsp. Cinnamon
• 1 tsp Cayenne
• 1 tsp. Ground Ginger
• ½ tsp. Ground Black Pepper
• ¼ tsp. Ground Nutmeg

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 300℉. Gather your ingredients, along with mixing bowls and sheet pans. In a small mixing bowl, combine the spice mix ingredients and set aside.

Step 2: Toast the almonds on a sheet pan for ten minutes. After the almonds come out of the oven, reduce the heat to 275℉.

Step 3: Combine all of the nuts in a large bowl, adding in the simple syrup, corn syrup and avocado oil, then tossing altogether with the spice blend to fully coat.

Step 4: Spread the seasoned mixture into an even layer using parchment-lined sheet pans sprayed lightly with neutral cooking spray. Bake in the preheated oven, starting at twenty minutes, rotating mid-way through baking.

After twenty minutes, check to see if the nuts have fully caramelized and are dry to the touch, or if they need additional time, up to a maximum of about 30 minutes (be mindful to check often so the nuts do not get too dark, or they'll turn bitter).

You may need to take a few out and allow them to cool before knowing if they are done.

Note: If the mixture still appears syrupy, even after cooling, pop the pans into refrigerator for about twenty minutes. Allow to cool completely at room temperature before storing.

Nuts will stay fresh, stored tightly, for up to one week- so they're great for making ahead!

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