Candied Cashews

We’re super excited to introduce a snack that’s become a favorite in our home – candied cashews, which blend the sweet and spicy perfectly. We often find ourselves reaching for these candied nuts, whether as a quick snack during a busy day, as a treat during the evening, or even to add a twist to a cheeseboard!

Cashews

We love cashews for this recipe, precisely because of their natural sweetness. As a nut, they’re also quite soft, which lends itself so well to the crunchier caramel coating. If you’d prefer to go for other nuts, be our guest because this recipe works well with all sorts.

Caramel coating

We start by gently melting butter in a pan to make the mouthwatering caramel coating. As it begins to bubble, we slowly stir in brown sugar. Brown sugar imparts a rich, deep flavor that transforms the caramel, and as the sugar dissolves, it melds with the butter to form a luscious caramel sauce. And once we add the cashews, they toast lightly in the caramel, absorbing all its delectable flavors.

Blend of spices

The real magic happens with the addition of spices. We love the warmth of cinnamon and the subtle kick of nutmeg. But the secret ingredient – a pinch of cayenne pepper – sets these cashews apart. This tiny addition introduces a delightful heat that dances on the tongue, contrasting beautifully with the caramel’s sweetness. If spicy isn’t your thing, feel free to leave out the cayenne, but we think it adds an exciting twist!

Chameleons cashews

• Vanilla bean: Infusing the caramel with the essence of vanilla bean or extract adds an aromatic dimension to the cashews.
• Chocolate drizzled: Drizzling melted dark or milk chocolate over the cooled candied cashews creates a decadent and irresistible snack. This variant marries the crunchy texture of cashews with chocolate’s smooth, creamy richness, making it a perfect indulgence for chocolate lovers.
• Sea salt: A light sprinkle of sea salt on these caramel-coated cashews offers a lovely contrast between sweet and salty. This combination appeals to those who enjoy a nuanced flavor profile, balancing the sweetness of the caramel with the crisp, savory taste of sea salt.
• Spicy chai: Mixing in chai spices like cardamom, cloves, and ginger gives the cashews a warm, aromatic twist.
• Maple Syrup: Substituting maple syrup for sugar in the caramel gives the cashews a unique and rich flavor profile. The natural sweetness and distinct taste of maple syrup elevate these cashews, especially during the fall season.
• Pumpkin spice: Embracing fall flavors, adding pumpkin spice to the caramel mix offers a seasonal treat. This variant is perfect for autumn celebrations, bringing the flavors of pumpkin pie to a crunchy, bite-sized snack.
• Espresso: Incorporating finely ground espresso or coffee beans introduces a subtle coffee-flavored kick, and this option, combining the rich, bold flavors of espresso with the sweet crunch of candied cashews, is fantastic for coffee enthusiasts.
• Citrus zest: Adding lemon or orange zest to the caramel mix infuses the cashews with a bright, citrusy note. This refreshing twist is perfect for those who enjoy a hint of tanginess to balance the sweetness of the caramel.

Some inspiration

Looking for some ways to use your candied cashews? We’ve got some ideas that we think you’ll like;

• Snacking: Perfect for munching on their own.
• Salads: Adds a sweet crunch when sprinkled on top.
• Baking: Great for adding texture and flavor to cookies, brownies, or muffins.
• Toppings: Ideal for ice cream, yogurt, or oatmeal.
• Cheese platters: Offers a sweet contrast in cheese boards.
• Trail mix: Combines beautifully with dried fruits and nuts for a homemade blend.
• Gifts: These can be packaged for a thoughtful homemade present.
• Dessert garnishes: Adds flair to cakes, cupcakes, or puddings.
• Breakfast cereals: Stir into morning cereals or granola.
• In stir-fries: Adds a sweet crunch to Asian-inspired dishes.
• Energy bars: Incorporates well into homemade energy bars.
• Roasted vegetables: Sprinkles nicely over roasted veggies for a flavor twist.

Nuts about nuts?

You’ll love exploring our other nutty recipes if you’re as nuts about nuts as we are. From the sweet and tangy Mashuga Nuts to the savory Cashew Shrimp, there’s something for every taste bud. And for those with a sweet tooth, our Honey Roasted Cashews and Chocolate Cashews will surely hit the spot.