Are you looking for a quick and easy snack recipe that's both sweet and spicy? Look no further! These spicy sweet almonds are incredibly addictive, perfect for movie nights, parties, or just a little afternoon pick-me-up. This homemade snack is far healthier than store-bought options, and surprisingly easy to make. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe, perfect for those seeking easy recipes and healthy meals. This quick dinner idea is also a fantastic way to impress your guests with minimal effort!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole almonds (raw or roasted)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This simple step prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
Prepare the Coating:
- In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture comes to a boil. This creates a simple syrup that coats the almonds beautifully.
Combine and Coat:
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the cayenne pepper, cinnamon, ginger, and salt. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of spices. This is where you can adjust the spice level to your liking!
Bake to Perfection:
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Add the almonds to the saucepan and toss gently to coat them evenly with the spicy sweet mixture. Be sure to coat each almond thoroughly.
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Spread the coated almonds in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
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Bake for 10-12 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the almonds are golden brown and the sugar is caramelized. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Cool and Enjoy:
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Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the almonds cool completely on the baking sheet. This allows the sugar to set properly, resulting in a satisfying crunch.
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Once cooled, store your spicy sweet almonds in an airtight container at room temperature. They'll stay crunchy and delicious for several days.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: For extra heat, add a pinch of chili powder or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the spice mixture.
- Sweeten it up: If you prefer a sweeter snack, add a tablespoon or two of honey or maple syrup to the sugar syrup.
- Nutty variations: Feel free to experiment with other nuts like pecans, walnuts, or cashews.
- Add some zest: A little orange or lemon zest would add a lovely citrusy note.
- Chocolate lovers rejoice: After the almonds have cooled, toss them with some melted dark chocolate for an extra decadent treat.
Nutritional Information (per serving - approximate, based on 1/4 cup):
- Calories: Approximately 200
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Sugar: 8g
This recipe provides a healthy and delicious snack option, packed with protein and healthy fats. Remember that nutritional information can vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used. Enjoy this delicious and easy recipe! These spicy sweet almonds are a perfect example of how homemade cooking can yield the best recipes, far surpassing anything you can buy in the store. They're fantastic for meal prepping, making them a great addition to your weekly healthy meal plan.