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The moment you pull these Candied Cashews out of the oven, the enticing aroma of honey mingling with a hint of chipotle will fill your kitchen, inviting everyone to come and taste. I first created this recipe during a cozy night in, seeking something to elevate my snacking game beyond the usual chips. The combination of sweet, smoky, and just the right amount of spice turns ordinary cashews into an irresistible treat that’s perfect for sharing—or even hiding away for a late-night indulgence!

This scrumptious snack is not just easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can adjust the spiciness to suit your taste, making it a crowd-pleaser for parties or a thoughtful homemade gift. Whether you enjoy them as a topping on a salad or straight from the jar, these candied cashews will add a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor to any moment. Ready to turn your kitchen into a fragrant haven of sweet and spicy delights? Let’s get started!

Why are Candied Cashews a must-make?

Irresistible flavor: The unique combination of sweet, spicy, and smoky creates a taste sensation that will leave you craving more.

Easy to prepare: You only need a few simple ingredients and basic skills to make this delightful snack at home.

Customizable spice level: Adjust the chipotle according to your preference, making them perfect for anyone who enjoys a kick!

Perfect for sharing: Great for parties, gatherings, or as a thoughtful gift in a jar, these cashews are sure to impress.

Versatile use: Enjoy them as a standalone snack, a topping for salads, or even in trail mixes for an added crunch!

Let these candied cashews redefine your snack game today!

Candied Cashews Ingredients

For the Cashews
• Cashews – Use whole roasted unsalted cashews for the best flavor and crunch.
• Vegetable Oil – This helps coat the nuts evenly for perfect baking; can be swapped with canola oil if preferred.

For the Sweet and Spicy Glaze
• Light Brown Sugar – Adds a rich sweetness; feel free to use granulated sugar if needed.
• Honey – It creates a delightful glaze; maple syrup serves as a tasty vegan alternative.
• Fresh Lime Juice – Brings a zest of brightness; lemon juice can replace if you’re out of lime.
• Ground Chipotle Powder – Infuses a smoky, spicy flavor; adjust the amount for your desired heat level.
• Sea Salt – Enhances the overall taste; don’t hesitate to add more to suit your preference.

These candied cashews are simple yet elevate any snacking experience!

How to Make Candied Cashews

Preheat the oven: Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly oil a large rimmed sheet pan to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
Coat the cashews: In a mixing bowl, combine the whole roasted unsalted cashews with vegetable oil. Stir until each cashew is evenly coated and shiny.
Mix the glaze: In another bowl, whisk together the light brown sugar, honey, fresh lime juice, ground chipotle powder, and sea salt until well combined. The mixture should have a smooth consistency.
Combine: Pour the sweet and spicy glaze over the coated cashews. Toss everything together gently until the cashews are completely and evenly covered in the glaze.
Spread on the pan: Arrange the cashews in a single layer on the prepared sheet pan. Make sure they are spread out to allow for even baking.
Bake: Place the sheet pan in the oven and bake for 24 minutes, stirring every 8 minutes. They should become glazed and golden brown while filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
Cool down: Once baked, remove the cashews from the oven and transfer them to a clean sheet pan. Stir frequently as they cool to prevent them from sticking together.

Optional: Drizzle with extra honey and a sprinkle of sea salt before serving for added sweetness and flavor!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Spicy Candied Cashews?

These delightful sweet and spicy gems are perfect for enhancing your meal and snacking experience.

Crispy Spring Rolls: The crunchy texture and light filling of spring rolls balance beautifully with the rich flavors of the candied cashews.
Fresh Green Salad: Serve them on a bed of mixed greens topped with a zesty vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the sweet, smoky crunch.
Spicy Roasted Chickpeas: Pair these for an extra layer of flavor and texture, as their savory spices mingle wonderfully with the candied cashews.
Fruit and Cheese Platter: Complement the sweet and spicy notes with sharp cheese and fresh fruits. The fruit’s acidity will cut through the sweetness beautifully.
Craft Beer: A cold bottle of craft beer, particularly an IPA, matches perfectly with the spicy kick while enhancing the flavors of the cashews.
Dark Chocolate: For a little indulgence, dark chocolate’s bitterness contrasts the sweetness, creating an extraordinary flavor explosion.
Spicy Salsa: Dip crispy tortilla chips into a flavorful salsa alongside these cashews for an unforgettable party snack.
Margaritas: Pair with a refreshing margarita, where the acidity of lime boosts the candied cashews’ zest, making for a vibrant cocktail experience.

Candied Cashews Variations

Feel free to mix and match these additions to personalize your candied cashews and elevate their flavor profile!

Nut Swap: Use pecans or walnuts instead of cashews for a unique texture and flavor twist. Each nut brings its aromatic notes to the party!
Sweetness Boost: Drizzle extra honey or maple syrup over the finished nuts for an added layer of sweetness that clings beautifully to each cashew.
Citrus Zest: Add lime or orange zest into the glaze for an aromatic burst of citrus that enhances the existing flavors with refreshing brightness.
Spice Road: Toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper for a perkier heat. It’s a great way to take your spiciness up a notch without overpowering the original flavors.
Savory Add-in: Incorporate a sprinkle of smoked paprika or turmeric for a savory depth that beautifully complements the sweetness and spice.
Herbal Touch: Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can be added during the mixing stage for an earthy flavor contrast; just a little is enough for a fragrant lift.
Chocolate Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cashews for a decadent twist that takes the sweet-and-spicy combination to new gourmet heights.
Reduced Heat: For a milder treat, substitute chipotle powder with paprika and reduce the quantity; you’ll still achieve a lovely color without overwhelming heat.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing these Candied Cashews ahead of time is a game changer for busy home cooks! You can mix the cashews with vegetable oil and prepare the sweet and spicy glaze up to 24 hours in advance; simply store the coated cashews and glaze separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, combine them and follow the recipe instructions as usual. To maintain their delightful crunch, make sure to stir the cashews frequently during cooling. These steps not only save you precious time on busy days but also promise the same irresistible taste when served!

How to Store and Freeze Candied Cashews

Room Temperature: Keep your candied cashews in an airtight container at room temperature for optimal freshness and crunch, lasting up to one week.

Fridge: Although not necessary, if you prefer a longer shelf life, you can refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to two weeks. Just note that they may lose some crunch.

Freezer: To freeze, place cool cashews in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before enjoying.

Reheating: If you’ve stored them in the fridge or freezer and notice they’ve lost their crunch, simply toast at 350°F for a few minutes to revive that delightful texture.

Expert Tips for Candied Cashews

Quality Nuts Matter: Always use whole roasted unsalted cashews for the best flavor and texture in your candied cashews.
Watch the Clock: Bake for exactly 24 minutes, stirring every 8 minutes to prevent burning. These nuts can go from golden to charred quickly!
Cooling Process: Allow your candied cashews to cool completely on a clean sheet pan while stirring frequently. This helps prevent them from clumping together due to the sticky glaze.
Adjusting Spice: If you’re unsure about the heat level, start with less chipotle powder. You can always add more later for a spicier candied cashew!
Storage Secrets: To keep your cashews fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. This preserves their crunch!

Candied Cashews Recipe FAQs

What kind of cashews should I use for candied cashews?
Use whole roasted unsalted cashews for the best flavor and crunch in your candied cashews. The unsalted variety allows the natural flavor of the cashews to shine through while the glaze adds the perfect balance of sweetness and saltiness.

How should I store my candied cashews?
To keep your candied cashews fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing to avoid moisture buildup. If you want to extend their shelf life, refrigerating them can preserve freshness for an additional week, but be aware they may lose some of their delightful crunch.

Can I freeze candied cashews?
Absolutely! To freeze your candied cashews, place cooled cashews in a freezer-safe bag, pressing out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw in the refrigerator. If they’ve lost some crunch, toast them on a baking sheet at 350°F for a few minutes to revive their texture!

What should I do if my cashews stick together?
If your cashews clumped together when cooling, don’t worry! Simply break apart any clusters gently with your fingers. To prevent this in the future, make sure to stir the cashews frequently while they cool, ensuring they remain coated with the glaze and don’t stick together due to moisture.

How can I adjust the spice level in my candied cashews?
To suit your taste preferences, you can easily adjust the amount of chipotle powder in the recipe. If you prefer milder candied cashews, start with a smaller amount, taste the glaze, and gradually add more until you reach your desired heat level. Remember, you can always add more, but it’s harder to tone it down!

Are candied cashews a healthy snack option?
While candied cashews are undoubtedly indulgent, they offer healthy fats and protein from the nuts. However, be mindful of the sugar content. If you’re looking for a healthier twist, consider using less sugar or a sugar substitute to reduce sweetness while maintaining the crunchy texture. Enjoy in moderation to balance indulgence with a nutritious diet.