Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the most addictive snack you'll ever experience! Imagine a handful of golden, perfectly roasted cashews glazed with a mesmerizing maple syrup coating that delivers a subtle kick of heat. This Slightly Spicy Maple Cashew Crunch isn't just a snack – it's a culinary adventure that transforms ordinary cashews into an extraordinary treat that will have everyone begging for your secret recipe.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup cashews
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that the cashews roast evenly and develop a nice crunch.
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the maple syrup, cayenne pepper, salt, and vanilla extract. Stir the mixture well until all the ingredients are fully combined and the cayenne pepper is evenly distributed.
- Add the cashews to the bowl with the syrup mixture. Stir gently to coat each cashew evenly with the syrup mixture, ensuring that they are well-covered.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Spread the coated cashews in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not overcrowded.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes, stirring the cashews halfway through to ensure even roasting. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning, as nuts can go from perfectly toasted to burnt quickly.
- Once the cashews are golden brown and fragrant, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Allow the cashews to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes; they will continue to harden as they cool.
- Once cooled, break apart any clumps of cashews that may have formed. You can store the Slightly Spicy Maple Cashew Crunch in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Serve the cashew crunch as a snack, a topping for salads, or as a delicious addition to your favorite trail mix. Enjoy!
Tips
- Use high-quality, raw cashews for the best flavor and texture.
- Watch the cashews carefully during roasting – they can burn quickly, so set a timer and stir halfway through.
- For an extra flavor boost, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or smoked paprika to the syrup mixture.
- Make sure your cashews are spread in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure even roasting.
- Let the cashews cool completely before storing to maintain their crispy texture.
- Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh and crunchy for up to a week.
- Experiment with the cayenne pepper amount to adjust the heat level to your preference.
- These make a perfect homemade gift or party snack that's sure to impress!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
