Candied Cashews

Candied cashews are an irresistible treat that brings together sweet and smoky flavors, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, looking for a snack to enjoy during movie night, or searching for a unique gift idea, these tangy lime and chipotle candied cashews will impress friends and family alike. Their crunchy texture and delightful taste make them a standout addition to your snack repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor Combination: The blend of sweet honey, brown sugar, zesty lime juice, and smoky chipotle creates a flavor explosion.
• Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly with minimal effort—perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
• Versatile Snack: Enjoy these candied cashews on their own, as a salad topping, or in trail mix for added crunch.
• Perfect for Gifting: Package them in a jar to give as a homemade gift; everyone will love this thoughtful treat.
• Make Ahead: These cashews store well in an airtight container at room temperature, making them great for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation smoother and enhances your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk or spoon
• Slotted spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: A large rimmed baking sheet allows even baking of the cashews without spilling.
• Mixing bowls: Different bowl sizes help keep ingredients organized when mixing the coating and nuts separately.

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 whole roasted unsalted cashews with canola oil. Mix until all nuts are evenly coated.

Step 3: Prepare the Coating Mixture

In a small bowl or large measuring cup, whisk together the brown sugar, honey, lime juice, chipotle powder, and salt until fully combined.

Step 4: Combine Cashews with Coating

Pour the prepared coating mixture over the coated cashews. Toss gently until every nut is evenly coated with the mixture.

Step 5: Bake the Cashews

Spread the coated cashews onto the prepared sheet pan. Bake them in the oven for 24 minutes while stirring every 8 minutes to ensure even cooking.

Step 6: Achieve Golden Brown Color

After 24 minutes of baking time, check frequently as you continue baking until the nuts become glazed and golden brown—total baking time should be between 25 to 30 minutes.

Step 7: Cool Down

Remove the pan from the oven. Using a slotted spoon or spatula, transfer the nuts to a clean sheet pan. Stir every 1 to 2 minutes until cooled completely. Taste your candied cashews and adjust salt if necessary.

Step 8: Store Properly

Once cooled completely, store your delicious candied cashews in an airtight container at room temperature for maximum freshness.

How to Serve Candied Cashews

Candied cashews are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a snack, these sweet and smoky nuts will impress everyone.

As a Snack

• Enjoy them straight from the jar for a quick, satisfying bite.
• Pair them with cheese for a balanced snack that combines sweetness and creaminess.

In Salads

• Sprinkle candied cashews on top of fresh salads to add crunch and flavor.
• Use them in Asian-inspired salads for an extra layer of taste.

With Desserts

• Top ice cream or yogurt with candied cashews for a crunchy twist.
• Incorporate them into baked goods like cookies or brownies for added texture.

As a Gift

• Package candied cashews in decorative jars for thoughtful homemade gifts.
• Customize labels or tags to make them extra special for any occasion.

How to Perfect Candied Cashews

To achieve the best candied cashews, consider these helpful tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cashews and high-quality honey make all the difference in taste.
• Control baking time: Keep an eye on the nuts as they bake to prevent burning; adjust time as needed.
• Allow cooling: Let the cashews cool completely before storing to maintain their crunchiness.
• Adjust seasonings: Feel free to tweak the chipotle powder and salt to match your taste preferences.
• Experiment with flavors: Try adding cinnamon or cayenne pepper for different flavor profiles.

Best Side Dishes for Candied Cashews

Candied cashews pair wonderfully with various side dishes, making them perfect for any meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses complements the sweetness of the cashews perfectly.
2. Fruit Salad: Fresh fruits balance out the sugary nuts while adding vibrant colors and flavors.
3. Roasted Vegetables: The savory taste of roasted veggies contrasts nicely with the sweetness of candied cashews.
4. Hummus and Veggies: Enjoying these nuts alongside hummus adds a crunchy element to your veggie platter.
5. Grain Bowls: Incorporate candied cashews into grain bowls for added texture and flavor complexity.
6. Popcorn Mix: Create a sweet-savory popcorn mix by tossing in candied cashews along with your favorite seasonings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making candied cashews, even small mistakes can lead to less than perfect results. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the oil: Not using oil can result in uneven coating. Make sure to coat the cashews thoroughly with vegetable oil before adding the sweet mixture.
• Incorrect baking time: Overbaking can lead to burnt nuts, while underbaking may not achieve the desired crispiness. Keep an eye on the cashews and stir them every 8 minutes for even baking.
• Ignoring salt adjustments: Seasoning is crucial. Taste your candied cashews after cooling and adjust the salt as needed for a balanced flavor.
• Using old ingredients: Stale nuts or expired spices can ruin your recipe. Always use fresh ingredients for the best taste and texture.
• Not allowing cooling time: Rushing to store the nuts can lead to sogginess. Let them cool completely on a separate pan before placing them in an airtight container.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container: Use a clean, dry container to prevent moisture from affecting the nuts.
• Duration: Candied cashews can last up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.

Freezing Candied Cashews

• Use freezer-safe bags or containers: Ensure that they are sealed tightly to avoid freezer burn.
• Duration: You can freeze candied cashews for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Candied Cashews

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and spread the cashews on a baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes until warm and crispy.
• Microwave: Place a small quantity in a microwave-safe dish and heat in short bursts of 15-20 seconds, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick pan over low heat and stir gently until warmed through; this method helps retain their crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Candied Cashews?

Candied cashews are roasted nuts coated with sugar, honey, and spices like chipotle, creating a sweet and smoky treat that’s perfect as a snack or topping.

How long do homemade Candied Cashews last?

Homemade candied cashews can last up to two weeks when stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature.

Can I customize my Candied Cashews?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different spices or sweeteners based on your preferences. Adding cinnamon or cayenne pepper can create unique flavor profiles.

Are there any dietary restrictions with Candied Cashews?

These candied nuts contain honey and sugar; however, you can substitute with alternatives if you have dietary concerns, such as using agave syrup or coconut sugar.

Final Thoughts

Candied cashews are not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various occasions. Whether served at parties or enjoyed as a snack, their sweet and spicy flavor will delight anyone who tries them. Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe by adding your favorite spices or adjusting sweetness levels! Enjoy making these tasty treats!

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Tangy Lime and Chipotle Candied Cashews

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Indulge in the delightful blend of sweet and smoky flavors with tangy lime and chipotle candied cashews. This simple yet sophisticated treat is perfect for any occasion—whether you’re snacking during a movie night, entertaining guests, or searching for a unique gift. The crunchy texture combined with the explosion of flavors from honey, brown sugar, zesty lime juice, and smoky chipotle powder makes these candied cashews a standout addition to your snack repertoire. Easy to prepare and customizable, they offer endless possibilities for serving—enjoy them on their own or as an exciting topping for salads and desserts. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this irresistible homemade treat!

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: About 16 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 oven to 350°F and lightly oil a large rimmed baking sheet.
2. In a large bowl, coat cashews with vegetable oil.
3. In another bowl, whisk together brown sugar, honey, lime juice, chipotle powder, and salt until combined.
4. Pour the mixture over cashews and toss to coat evenly.
5. Spread coated cashews on the baking sheet and bake for 24 minutes, stirring every 8 minutes.
6. Continue baking until golden brown (25-30 minutes total).
7. Cool completely before storing in an airtight container.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 ounce (28g)
• Calories: 160
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 95mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Monitor baking closely to prevent burning; adjust time as necessary. Customize flavors by adding spices like cinnamon or cayenne pepper.