Candied Cashews

Tangy lime and chipotle candied cashews are a perfect blend of sweet and smoky flavors, making them an irresistible snack for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a movie night, or simply craving a delicious treat, these candied cashews will delight your taste buds. The combination of lime and chipotle adds a unique twist that sets them apart from typical nut snacks, ensuring they stand out on any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple steps and minimal ingredients, making it accessible for everyone.
• Flavor Explosion: The tangy lime and spicy chipotle create a delightful contrast that elevates your snacking experience.
• Versatile Snack: Enjoy these candied cashews on their own, as a topping for salads, or mixed into trail mixes.
• Perfect for Gifting: Package these treats in a decorative jar for a thoughtful homemade gift.
• Healthy Indulgence: Packed with protein and healthy fats, these nuts are a satisfying snack without the guilt.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your candied cashews, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Slotted spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Essential for even baking and helps achieve that perfect golden brown glaze.
• Mixing bowls: Allows for easy mixing of ingredients without spills.
• Whisk: Ensures your coating mixture is well combined for uniform flavor.

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 to 350°F. Lightly oil your large rimmed sheet pan (such as 12x18x1-inch) using some vegetable oil. Set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cashews

In a large bowl, combine the whole roasted unsalted cashews with canola oil. Mix thoroughly to ensure all cashews are evenly coated.

Step 3: Mix the Coating Ingredients

In a small bowl or large measuring cup, whisk together the following until combined:
1. Brown sugar
2. Honey
3. Lime juice
4. Chipotle powder
5. Sea salt

Step 4: Coat the Cashews

Pour your prepared coating mixture over the cashews in the large bowl. Toss everything together until each nut is well-coated with this flavorful mixture.

Step 5: Bake the Cashews

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

Step 6: Finish Baking

After baking for about 24 minutes, check if they’re golden brown. If not yet done, continue baking for an additional few minutes until they reach that perfect glazed finish—total baking time should be between 25 to 30 minutes.

Step 7: Cool Down

Remove the pan from the oven carefully. Using a slotted spoon or spatula, transfer the nuts to a clean sheet pan. Stir them every minute or two until they cool off completely. Taste once cooled and adjust salt if needed.

Step 8: Store

Once completely cooled, store your delicious candied cashews in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh!

How to Serve Candied Cashews

Candied cashews are versatile and can add a delightful touch to various dishes. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will enhance your snacking experience.

As a Snack on Their Own

• Perfect for munching, these sweet and smoky nuts can be enjoyed straight from the jar.

In a Salad

• Toss candied cashews into mixed greens or fruit salads for a crunchy texture and flavorful surprise.

With Cheese Plates

• Pair these cashews with soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese for an elegant appetizer.

On Top of Desserts

• Sprinkle candied cashews over ice cream, yogurt, or brownies for added sweetness and crunch.

In Trail Mix

• Combine with dried fruits and other nuts to create a delicious homemade trail mix perfect for on-the-go snacking.

As Party Favors

• Package them in small bags as party favors; they make delightful edible gifts for guests.

How to Perfect Candied Cashews

Achieving the ideal texture and flavor for your candied cashews involves some key steps. Follow these tips to ensure your nuts turn out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lime juice and quality chipotle powder will enhance the flavors significantly.
• Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on the nuts as they bake to prevent burning; golden brown is the goal.
• Stir regularly: Stirring every eight minutes helps to achieve an even coating and prevents sticking.
• Cool properly: Allow the nuts to cool completely on a clean sheet pan; this ensures they remain crunchy.
• Adjust salt to taste: After cooling, taste your candied cashews and add more salt if needed for balance.
• Store correctly: Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Candied Cashews

Candied cashews can complement many dishes, making them a fantastic addition to your meal. Here are some side dish ideas that pair well with these tasty nuts.

1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The earthy flavor of Brussels sprouts contrasts nicely with the sweetness of candied cashews.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with fresh herbs offers a nutritious base that pairs beautifully with nutty flavors.
3. Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness of roasted sweet potato fries makes an excellent match with candied cashews.
4. Cheese and Charcuterie Board: Include these nuts alongside cured meats and cheeses for a balanced charcuterie experience.
5. Fruit Platter: Fresh fruits like apples, pears, or berries can be enhanced by tossing them with candied cashews.
6. Spicy Roasted Chickpeas: The crunchiness of chickpeas complements the sweet-spicy notes of the nuts quite well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making candied cashews, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of:

• Overlooking the baking time: Baking for too long can lead to burnt nuts. Keep an eye on them and start checking around the 25-minute mark.
• Not stirring enough: Failing to stir the cashews every 8 minutes can result in uneven coating. Make sure to toss them regularly for uniform flavor.
• Skipping the cooling step: Allowing the nuts to cool properly is essential for achieving the right texture. Don’t skip this step; it helps them become crispy instead of sticky.
• Using low-quality ingredients: The flavor of your candied cashews depends on the quality of your ingredients, especially the honey and spices. Choose fresh, high-quality products for the best results.
• Neglecting salt adjustment: After cooling, taste your candied cashews and adjust the salt if needed. A little extra salt can enhance the sweet and spicy flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
• Keep in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Freezing Candied Cashews

• For longer storage, freeze in a sealed freezer bag or container.
• They will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Candied Cashews

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 15 seconds, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a pan over low heat for a few minutes, stirring frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make candied cashews spicy?

You can increase the amount of chipotle powder or add additional spices like cayenne pepper for more heat.

Can I use other nuts instead of cashews?

Yes! Almonds, pecans, or walnuts work well as substitutes while maintaining delicious flavors.

How do I ensure my candied cashews stay crunchy?

Make sure to let them cool completely after baking and store them in an airtight container to maintain their crunchiness.

What dishes pair well with candied cashews?

These nuts are great as toppings on salads, added to trail mixes, or enjoyed as a standalone snack with drinks.

Final Thoughts

This recipe for candied cashews offers a delightful balance of sweet and spicy flavors that makes them irresistible. Their versatility allows you to customize them with your favorite spices or even try different nuts altogether. Whether you’re snacking alone or entertaining guests, these treats are sure to impress!