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Texan BBQ Candied Nuts Recipe

4.6 from 78 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. Cool: Remove from the oven and let the candied nuts cool completely on the baking sheet; they will harden as they cool.
  7. 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