Skip the pricey snack aisle and make your own bold, smoky, and spicy almonds at home! These Chipotle Roasted Almonds are tossed with chili, sugar, and salt, then pan-roasted until fragrant and perfectly seasoned. Serve them slightly warm with a cold beer for the ultimate game-day snack or party appetizer.
INGREDIENTS:
1 tablespoon ground chipotle chili pepper
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon coarse salt
1 1/2 cups whole natural almonds
1 tablespoon almond oil
METHOD:
In a small bowl, combine the chipotle chili pepper, sugar, and salt. Set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the almonds with the almond oil over medium-high heat. Cook, stirring and shaking the pan occasionally, until the almonds are fragrant and the skins begin to “pop,” about 5–7 minutes.
Reduce heat to medium-low. Stir in the chipotle mixture and cook, shaking the skillet constantly, for about 30 seconds to release the chili’s oils and coat the almonds.
Transfer almonds to a bowl. Let cool slightly, then serve warm.
GIFT IDEAS:
Savory Snack Jars: Package the Chipotle Roasted Almonds in small glass jars or tins, tie with twine or a rustic ribbon, and label them “Smoky Chipotle Almonds.”
Gourmet Gift Baskets: Pair a jar of almonds with local honey, a small bottle of hot sauce, or a wedge of aged cheddar for a spicy-sweet snack collection.
Holiday or Host Gifts: Tuck a bag of almonds into a basket of barbecue-themed items—like spice rubs or grilling tools—for a thoughtful homemade touch.
Party Favors: Divide almonds into cellophane bags or parchment cones and seal with decorative stickers for festive, grab-and-go treats.
YIELD: Makes 1 1/2 cups
