Sweet, smoky, and just a little fiery, these Spicy Maple Mixed Nuts are an irresistible snack that hits every flavor note. The combination of maple syrup, rosemary, and smoked paprika creates a caramelized glaze that clings to toasted almonds, pecans, walnuts, and pumpkin seeds. The result is a crunchy, aromatic mix with a subtle heat from red pepper flakes—perfect for cocktail hour, holiday parties, or thoughtful homemade gifts.
INGREDIENTS:
1 cup raw almonds
1 cup pecans
1 cup walnuts
1/4 cup shelled raw pumpkin seeds (pepitas) or sunflower seeds
1/3 cup pure maple syrup
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons rosemary leaves, chopped
2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon smoked Spanish paprika
1 teaspoon kosher salt
METHOD:
Preheat oven to 350°. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine almonds, pecans, walnuts, and pumpkin seeds. Add maple syrup, olive oil, rosemary, red pepper flakes, paprika, and salt. Toss thoroughly until all nuts are evenly coated.
Spread the nut mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 20–25 minutes, stirring once or twice, until the nuts are golden, fragrant, and caramelized.
Transfer roasted nuts to a clean sheet of parchment paper. Spread out in an even layer and let cool completely, breaking up any clusters as they harden.
Once cool, store the nuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week (if they last that long!).
YIELD: 3 cups
GIFT IDEAS:
Gourmet Snack Jars: Fill small jars or tins with Spicy Maple Mixed Nuts, tie with rustic twine or plaid ribbon, and label “Sweet Heat Snack Mix.”
Host Gift Pairing: Bundle a jar with a bottle of maple syrup, a sprig of rosemary, and a note suggesting they serve it with cocktails or cheese boards.
Holiday Gifts: Combine with homemade candied citrus peel or chocolate bark in a festive tin for a deluxe nut and sweet assortment.
Bar Snack Sampler: Pair with a small-batch whiskey, spiced rum, or local craft beer for a cozy and flavorful gift set.
