Candied Cashews

Candied cashews are a delightful snack that perfectly balance sweetness and heat. With a tangy lime and smoky chipotle flavor, these nuts are great for parties, movie nights, or simply as a tasty treat during the day. Their unique combination of flavors makes them stand out, ensuring they will be a favorite among friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal effort and just a few simple ingredients, making it perfect for beginners.
• Flavor Explosion: The tangy lime and spicy chipotle create an irresistible sweet and smoky flavor that keeps you coming back for more.
• Versatile Snack: Enjoy these candied cashews on their own or incorporate them into salads, charcuterie boards, or as toppings for desserts.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a festive gathering or a casual snack at home, these candied cashews fit right in.
• Homemade Goodness: Making your own snacks means you can control the ingredients and avoid preservatives found in store-bought options.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your candied cashews, you’ll need a few essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large rimmed sheet pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Slotted spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large rimmed sheet pan: Provides ample space for even baking without overcrowding the nuts.
• Mixing bowls: Allows for easy mixing of ingredients without making a mess.
• Whisk: Ensures that the sugar and liquids combine smoothly for an even coating on the cashews.
• Slotted spoon or spatula: Helps transfer the nuts efficiently while allowing excess coating to drip off.

Ingredients

Tangy lime and chipotle candied cashews for a sweet and smoky treat.

Ingredients:
– 32 ounces whole roasted unsalted cashews (about 6 ½ to 7 cups)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (such as canola), plus more for oiling pan
– ⅓ cup packed light brown sugar
– ¼ cup honey
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 teaspoons ground chipotle powder or ground chipotle chile pepper
– 2 teaspoons sea salt, plus more to taste

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Candied Cashews

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Position the rack in the center of the oven and preheat it to 350°F. Lightly oil a large rimmed sheet pan (such as 12x18x1-inch) and set it aside.

Step 2: Coat the Cashews

In a large bowl, combine the cashews with canola oil. Mix well to ensure they are evenly coated.

Step 3: Prepare the Coating Mixture

In a small bowl or large measuring cup, whisk together the following:
1. brown sugar
2. honey
3. lime juice
4. chipotle powder
5. salt

Ensure that all ingredients are thoroughly combined.

Step 4: Combine Cashews with Coating

Pour the prepared mixture over the cashews. Toss them gently to ensure an even coating on each nut.

Step 5: Bake the Cashews

Spread the coated cashews onto your prepared sheet pan. Bake them for about 24 minutes, stirring every 8 minutes to promote even cooking.

Step 6: Finish Baking

After 24 minutes, check if they are golden brown. If not, bake for a few additional minutes until they achieve that perfect glaze. Total baking time should be between 25 to 30 minutes.

Step 7: Cool Down

Once baked, remove the pan from the oven. Use a slotted spoon or spatula to transfer the nuts onto another clean sheet pan. Stir them every 1 to 2 minutes until completely cooled. Taste and adjust salt if necessary.

Step 8: Store Properly

After cooling down completely, store your candied cashews in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crunchiness.

How to Serve Candied Cashews

Candied cashews make a delightful snack or an elegant addition to various dishes. Their sweet and smoky flavor pairs well with many foods, making them versatile for any occasion.

As a Snack

• Perfect for munching on during movie nights or casual gatherings.
• Great as an afternoon pick-me-up to satisfy your sweet tooth.

In Salads

• Sprinkle candied cashews on mixed greens for added crunch and sweetness.
• Enhance fruit salads by adding these nuts for a flavorful twist.

With Cheese Boards

• Serve alongside cheese platters for a delightful contrast to savory cheeses.
• Pair with dried fruits and crackers for an appealing spread.

In Desserts

• Use as a topping for ice cream or yogurt for added texture.
• Incorporate into brownies or cookies for a unique flavor boost.

How to Perfect Candied Cashews

For the best results when making candied cashews, keep these tips in mind:

• Use fresh ingredients: Ensuring that your nuts and spices are fresh will enhance the overall flavor of your candied cashews.
• Control the heat: Baking at the right temperature helps achieve that perfect crunch without burning the sugar coating.
• Stir frequently: Stirring every 8 minutes during baking ensures even cooking and prevents burning.
• Taste test before cooling: Adjust salt levels when the nuts are still warm for optimal flavor.
• Store properly: Keep your candied cashews in an airtight container to maintain freshness and crunchiness.

Best Side Dishes for Candied Cashews

Candied cashews can elevate various side dishes, adding a unique taste. Here are some ideal pairings:

1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The nutty sweetness of roasted Brussels sprouts balances well with the flavors of candied cashews.
2. Quinoa Salad: Combine quinoa with veggies and sprinkle candied cashews on top for extra crunch and flavor.
3. Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness of fries complements the spicy notes of chipotle in the cashews.
4. Cheese Platter: Include assorted cheeses, crackers, and candied cashews for a delightful appetizer option.
5. Fruit Salad: Toss in candied cashews to add a crunchy element to fresh fruit mixes.
6. Grilled Chicken Salad: Top this salad with candied cashews for a sweet touch that pairs beautifully with savory chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making candied cashews can be easy, but there are some common mistakes that can ruin your batch. Avoid these pitfalls for a perfect snack.

• Skipping the oil: Not using vegetable oil can lead to uneven coating. Make sure to coat the cashews thoroughly with oil before adding the sugar mixture.

• Overbaking the nuts: Baking for too long can burn the cashews. Keep an eye on them and stir every 8 minutes to ensure they bake evenly and don’t become bitter.

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Incorrect measurements can affect flavor balance. Use precise measuring tools for both liquid and dry ingredients to get the best results.

• Ignoring cooling time: Allowing the cashews to cool is essential for achieving the right texture. Stir frequently until they are completely cooled to prevent sticking together.

• Using stale nuts: Old cashews won’t have the same crunch or flavor. Use fresh, whole roasted unsalted cashews for the best taste and texture in your candied cashews.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Proper storage and reheating will keep your candied cashews fresh and tasty for longer.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Candied cashews can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Freezing Candied Cashews

• Place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can last up to 3 months in the freezer without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating Candied Cashews

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 5-7 minutes to regain crunch.

• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and heat in 10-15 second intervals, stirring in between until warmed through.

• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet, stirring frequently for even warming, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Candied Cashews?

Candied cashews are roasted nuts coated with a sweet mixture of sugar, honey, lime juice, and chipotle powder, giving them a sweet yet smoky flavor profile.

How long do homemade candied cashews last?

When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, homemade candied cashews last about 2 weeks. For longer storage, consider freezing them.

Can I customize my candied cashews?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different spices like cinnamon or nutmeg or swap lime juice for orange juice to create unique flavors tailored to your preferences.

Are candied cashews healthy?

While they do contain nutritious fats from the nuts, be mindful of added sugars. Enjoy them as an occasional treat instead of a daily snack.

Final Thoughts

These candied cashews offer a delightful blend of sweetness and spice that makes them perfect for snacking or entertaining. Their versatility allows you to customize flavors based on your taste preferences. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try—you’ll love how easy it is to make a delicious treat at home!

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Candied Cashews

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Indulge your taste buds with these irresistible candied cashews that perfectly blend sweet and smoky flavors. Coated in a delightful mixture of brown sugar, honey, tangy lime juice, and chipotle powder, these nuts make for an ideal snack at parties, movie nights, or just a tasty treat during the day. The unique combination of flavors ensures they will be a hit among family and friends. Plus, making them at home allows you to control the ingredients and avoid preservatives found in store-bought options. Serve them solo or sprinkle them over salads, desserts, or cheese boards for added flair.

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 32 ounces whole roasted unsalted cashews
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• ⅓ cup packed light brown sugar
• ¼ cup honey
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
• 2 teaspoons ground chipotle powder
• 2 teaspoons sea salt

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly oil a large rimmed sheet pan.
2. In a bowl, coat cashews with vegetable oil.
3. In another bowl, whisk together brown sugar, honey, lime juice, chipotle powder, and salt until smooth.
4. Pour the mixture over the cashews and toss to coat evenly.
5. Spread the coated cashews on the sheet pan and bake for 24 minutes, stirring every 8 minutes.
6. Once golden brown, remove from oven and let cool completely before storing in an airtight container.

• Author: Stephanie
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Snack
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 160
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 90mg
• Fat: 13g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Use fresh ingredients for optimal flavor. Stir frequently during baking to prevent burning. Feel free to customize flavors by experimenting with different spices.