Looking for something quick to make and package as a last-minute host or hostess gift? Or do you love nuts or have nut loving friends? Here’s a great go-to recipe featuring original flavors.
(Makes approximately 6 cups)
Ingredients:
- 6 cups of your favorite raw nuts or assortment (pecans, cashews, almonds)
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup white sugar
- 2 ½ tbsp. cocoa powder (unsweetened)
- 2 tsp. ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp. cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1 egg white (from extra-large egg)
- 1 Tbsp. water
Directions:
Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent nuts from sticking. Set aside. Arrange oven racks in the center of the oven. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. To make the sugary spice mix, grab a medium bowl and combine both sugars with the cocoa powder, ground cinnamon, cayenne pepper, and salt. Whisk those dry ingredients until combined and mixture is smooth (no lumps). Set aside. Next, grab a large bowl. Add the egg white and the tbsp. of water to the large bowl. Whisk vigorously until egg is foamy and light. Gently fold the nuts into the egg white mixture using a spatula. Gently fold and mix until the nuts are completely coated. Then add the sugary spice mix to the egg coated nuts. Gently fold and mix until nuts are completely coated. Divide the coated nuts between the two baking sheets and spread in a single layer. Discard any leftover powder in the bowl. Place one baking sheet on the upper middle rack and the other on the lower middle rack of the preheated oven. Bake for 10 minutes. Remove from oven to stir and flip them. Rotate the baking sheets and place nuts back in the center of the oven to bake for about another 10 minutes. Watch them carefully as to not burn. When done, they will appear fragrant and lightly caramelized. Let nuts cool on the baking sheet before transferring to airtight mason jars. Decorate jars with ribbon and fill to give as gifts. Or save the nuts in an airtight container to eat later or to serve at your holiday party. Nuts last about one week at room temperature in airtight containers.
Chef tips:
- Make sure the nuts are well coated in the egg whites before coating them in the sugary spice mixture to ensure that the coating sticks.
- Watch them carefully when baking as sugar coated nuts can burn quickly.
- Let nuts totally cool down before transferring them to mason jars or containers.
Article sources:
Control the Mess
https://homemadehooplah.com (Sugar coated nuts) – How long do they last?