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Bowl of Texas Barbecue Candied Nuts with a rustic wood background

Texan BBQ Candied Nuts

A delightful blend of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors that transforms ordinary nuts into an irresistible snack, perfect for game days and gatherings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 225
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Nuts
  • 1.5 cups pecans Rich, buttery flavor
  • 1.5 cups raw unsalted almonds (or toasted) Subtle sweetness and crispy texture
  • 1 cup raw, unsalted cashews (toasted okay too) Creamy texture and earthy notes
Candied Coating
  • 1.5 tsp kosher salt Enhances all flavors
  • 25 g unsalted butter Adds richness to the coating
  • 0.5 cups white sugar Caramelizes for a sweet finish
  • 2 tbsp water Helps dissolve the sugar
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika Adds smokiness
  • 1 tsp chipotle Adjust according to heat preference
  • 0.5 tsp coriander powder Adds depth
  • 0.5 tsp cumin powder Enhances earthy flavors
  • 0.5 tsp onion powder Adds savory notes
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder Infuses umami
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper Balances sweetness
  • 0.25 tsp cayenne pepper (optional) For extra kick
Finishing Touch
  • sea salt flakes For enhancing flavors before serving

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F, 160°C fan-forced) and prepare a large tray by lining it with foil and baking paper.
Simmer the Candied Coating
  1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, then add remaining candied coating ingredients. Stir until it simmers, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for about two minutes.
Toss with Nuts
  1. Pour the candied coating over the bowl of nuts and mix thoroughly with a rubber spatula for about 30 seconds.
Bake
  1. Spread the coated nuts on the prepared tray and bake for about 20 minutes, tossing halfway through. They should turn a deep golden color.
Break Up and Cool
  1. Allow the nuts to cool undisturbed on the tray for around 10 minutes, then gently break them apart and let cool fully for about 30 minutes.
Serve and Enjoy
  1. Serve the nuts directly from the bowl, or gift them in jars. They can be chopped and sprinkled on salads for added crunch.

Notes

For variations, try substituting different nuts or adding spices like cinnamon. Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.