Sweet & Smoky Celebration Nuts

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Looking for a quick yet irresistible snack to serve at your next gathering? These party nuts combine a subtle sweetness with a hint of smoky spice, making them the perfect munchies to welcome guests. Serve them with a refreshing beverage or treat them as the ultimate topper for salads and charcuterie boards.

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Ingredients

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  • 2 cups mixed nuts (such as almonds, cashews, and pecans)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon ground cayenne (optional for heat)
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Gather your favorite nuts in a large mixing bowl—think almonds, cashews, or even hazelnuts for a delightful crunch. Drizzle in the olive oil and stir to coat them evenly.

Next, sprinkle on the brown sugar, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Gently stir until the nuts are thoroughly coated in the sweet and smoky spice mixture. Transfer them onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they’re in a single layer.

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Pop the nuts into the preheated oven and let them toast for 10 to 12 minutes. Keep a close eye on them—nuts can go from lightly golden to overdone rather quickly. Once they turn a shade deeper in color and fill the kitchen with their toasty scent, pull them out and let them cool for a few minutes.

As they cool, the caramelized coating will set, creating that addictive crunch we all love. Serve your party nuts warm, or let them reach room temperature before storing in an airtight container.

These festive nuts are a perfect mix of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors, which makes them a hit for nearly any occasion. They’re ideal for those who love protein-packed snacks, and you can tweak the recipe to your liking by swapping out the sugar for honey or maple syrup, adding extra spices, or experimenting with your favorite nut varieties. Whether you’re dressing up a salad or simply munching away while chatting with friends, these party nuts are guaranteed to make any gathering feel a little more special.

Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.