The whole Christmas routine has gotten away from this year. Between work and the kid’s activities I have not had time to dedicate. Today at work they sent everyone home early just for the fun of it. How awesome is that! Well since I was working at home that bought me even more time. I used it wisely and got caught up some cooking. I made my world famous spiced nuts. OK, so maybe they are not famous around the world. Well, technically they aren’t even famous. Anyway, would not be Christmas in our house without them! They are great for cocktail party snacks and gift giving. I made Cowboy Candy as well, another tasty treat. Got the freezer stocked with some food for the long weekend of festivities too. I even snuck in some Christmas shopping where I got to see a friend I had not seen in awhile.
What an unexpectedly awesome productive day. I love when that happens! Tomorrow on to the baking. For now, enjoying some sushi, wine, and a Christmas show with the kids.
Here is the recipe for the spiced nuts, it is really foolproof. They are the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and spicy.
Spiced Nuts
- 1 large egg white
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon allspice
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 40 oz container mixed nuts
- Heat oven to 350°.
- Beat egg white until foamy. Mix in all spices. Add nuts and stir to coat.
- Bake nuts in a single layer in a ungreased baking pan.
- Bake for 20 minutes. Give them a stir.
- Lower heat to 325° and bake for another 20 minutes
- Cool and store for up to 2 weeks.
I always double the recipe and use a 40 oz container of salted cashews plus the 40 oz container of mixed nuts. Perfect ratio if you are a cashew lover like me.
I may have to try this with mixed nuts. I made these with 2 lbs of pecans. I love these, great addition to a salad too!