Texan BBQ Candied Nuts Recipe
Introduction
Texan BBQ Candied Nuts offer a sweet and smoky snack that’s perfect for parties or an everyday treat. These crunchy nuts are coated with a flavorful blend of brown sugar and spices, then baked to caramelized perfection.

Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed nuts
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 large egg white
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk the egg white until frothy. Add the mixed nuts and stir to coat them evenly.
- Step 3: Combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, ground cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt in a separate bowl. Sprinkle this spice mixture over the nuts and toss well to ensure every nut is covered.
- Step 4: Spread the coated nuts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 5: Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to prevent burning and to help them caramelize evenly.
- Step 6: Remove from the oven and let cool completely on the baking sheet. The nuts will crisp up as they cool.
Tips & Variations
- For a milder flavor, omit the cayenne pepper or reduce the smoked paprika.
- Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, sweet twist.
- Use pecans, almonds, or walnuts alone if you prefer a single nut variety.
- Ensure the nuts are spread evenly and not overcrowded for the best caramelization.
Storage
Store the candied nuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. To refresh their crispness, warm them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 minutes before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of nuts?
Yes, feel free to use any nuts you prefer such as pecans, almonds, walnuts, or cashews. Mixed nuts provide variety, but single types work well too.
What if I don’t have egg white?
You can substitute the egg white with a small amount of honey or maple syrup to help the sugar and spices adhere to the nuts, though texture may vary slightly.
PrintTexan BBQ Candied Nuts Recipe
Texan BBQ Candied Nuts are a deliciously sweet and smoky snack featuring a crunchy coating of brown sugar and spices over mixed nuts. Perfect as a party appetizer or a flavorful topping for salads and desserts.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 2 cups 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Texan, American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed nuts (such as pecans, almonds, cashews, and walnuts)
- 1 large egg white
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- Whip Egg White: In a small bowl, lightly beat the egg white until frothy. This will help the sugar and spice mixture adhere to the nuts.
- Coat Nuts: Add the mixed nuts to the bowl with the egg white and stir to coat evenly. In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle the sugar and spice mixture over the nuts and toss to coat thoroughly.
- Spread on Baking Sheet: Spread the coated nuts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not overcrowded to allow even baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to ensure even caramelization and prevent burning. The nuts should be crisp and glossy when done.
- Cool: Remove from the oven and let the candied nuts cool completely on the baking sheet; they will harden as they cool.
- Store or Serve: Once cooled, break any clumps apart and store in an airtight container. These nuts are great as a snack or used as a crunchy topping for salads or desserts.
Notes
- If you prefer a milder spice level, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper.
- Ensure nuts are spread in a single layer for even cooking and clumping-free results.
- The nuts will continue to crisp up as they cool, so avoid overbaking to prevent bitterness.
- Use parchment paper or a non-stick silicone mat to make cleanup easy.
- These nuts can be stored at room temperature for up to two weeks in an airtight container.
Keywords: candied nuts, BBQ nuts, Texan snack, caramelized nuts, spiced nuts, party snack

