Description
These Spiced Honey Roasted Almonds are a perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and salty flavors. Coated with honey and a pinch of cayenne pepper, then roasted to perfection, they make a deliciously addictive snack or a delightful addition to your salads and desserts.
Ingredients
Almonds and Spice Mix
- 2 1/2 cups raw almonds
- 3/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 3/4 tsp kosher salt
- 1/8 cup raw sugar
Honey Coating
- 1/4 cup honey
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to fully preheat to ensure even roasting of the almonds.
- Prepare baking sheet: Line a large rimmed cookie sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Mix sugar and salt: In a small bowl, combine 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/8 cup raw sugar; set this mixture aside for later use.
- Coat almonds with honey and spices: In a non-stick skillet over medium heat, gently melt 1/4 cup honey until it becomes liquidy. Remove from heat, then add the raw almonds and sprinkle 3/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper over them. Stir well until all almonds are evenly coated with the honey and cayenne mixture.
- Spread and bake almonds: Transfer the coated almonds to the prepared baking sheet, spreading them out in a single layer to ensure even roasting. Place the sheet in the oven and bake for 10 minutes at 350°F.
- Cool and toss in sugar-salt mix: Remove the almonds from the oven and let them cool on the countertop for about 5 minutes. Then, toss them in the previously mixed sugar and salt to coat them evenly, enhancing the flavor with a perfect balance of sweetness and saltiness.
- Final cooling: Spread the almonds back onto the baking sheet or parchment paper and allow them to cool completely. This sets the honey coating and creates a delightful crunchy texture.
Notes
- For a milder spice level, reduce the cayenne pepper quantity.
- Use raw almonds for the best texture and flavor; roasted almonds won't absorb the honey coating as well.
- Store cooled almonds in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.
- These almonds make a great gift when packaged in decorative jars or bags.
- Be careful when melting honey to avoid burning it; melt gently over medium heat.
