Creole Spiced Nuts Snack

The kitchen was filled with this incredible smoky aroma that had everyone wandering in from the living room, asking what I was making. I'd thrown together these spiced nuts on a whim before a party, just trying to use up some random nuts from the pantry. Within an hour of setting them out, the bowl was completely empty and people were actually asking for the recipe instead of just politely eating them.

I made these for a Super Bowl gathering last winter and my brother in law stood by the bowl the entire time, casually eating one after another until I caught him red handed. Now every time we have people over, someone texts me ahead of time asking if those nuts will make an appearance.

Ingredients

• 2 cups raw mixed nuts: I love using pecans, almonds, cashews, and walnuts for variety in texture and flavor
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps the spices cling evenly to every nut
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and helps the spices bloom during baking
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Gives that beautiful deep red color and smoky depth
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Adjust based on your heat tolerance
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Savory foundation of the spice blend
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Rounds out the savory notes perfectly
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Earthy aromatic that balances the heat
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Classic herb flavor that hints at Mediterranean influence
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential to balance all the spices and bring out nut flavors
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds subtle warmth and complexity
• 1/2 teaspoon brown sugar: Just enough to caramelize slightly and mellow the spices

Instructions

Preheat the oven:

Set your oven to 325°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup

Whisk together the spice blend:

In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, melted butter, smoked paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, black pepper, and brown sugar until well mixed

Coat the nuts:

Add the mixed nuts to the bowl and toss thoroughly, ensuring every single nut gets covered in the spice mixture

Spread and bake:

Arrange the nuts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, stirring once halfway through cooking

Cool completely:

Let the nuts cool completely on the baking sheet, as they will become crunchier as they reach room temperature

Save

These spiced nuts have become my go to host gift instead of wine or cookies. I pack them in mason jars with ribbon labels and friends actually get excited about them instead of just saying thank you politely.

Making Ahead

I always double this recipe because they disappear faster than you would expect. They stay perfectly fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, though I have never personally tested them lasting that long.

Serving Suggestions

These nuts pair incredibly well with cold beer, cocktails, or even just as a afternoon snack with tea. The combination of smoky, spicy, and slightly sweet makes them versatile enough for casual gatherings or more formal entertaining.

Flavor Variations

Sometimes I mix in different nuts depending on what I have on hand or what is on sale at the store. The spice blend works equally well with just pecans for a southern twist or almonds for a more focused flavor profile.

• Try adding a pinch of ground cumin for extra earthiness
• A dash of celery salt gives them a classic bloody mary vibe
• Double the brown sugar if you prefer them on the sweeter side

Save

Every time I make these, I am reminded that the simplest recipes are often the ones that bring the most joy to people.

Recipe FAQs

→ What types of nuts are best for this snack?

A blend of pecans, almonds, cashews, and walnuts works wonderfully, providing varied textures and flavors.

→ How can I adjust the spice level?

Modify the cayenne pepper amount to increase or decrease heat according to your taste preferences.

→ Can I prepare these nuts in advance?

Yes, once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to maintain freshness.

→ What cooking equipment is needed?

A large mixing bowl, baking sheet with parchment paper, measuring spoons, and a spatula are essential for preparation.

→ Are these nuts suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, provided the nuts are sourced from a gluten-free facility to avoid cross-contamination.