Spicy Cajun Nuts Mix (Printable)
A fiery nut medley coated in Cajun spices delivers a bold, crunchy snack with Southern flair.
# What You'll Need:
→ Nuts
01 - 1 cup raw cashews
02 - 1 cup raw pecan halves
03 - 1 cup raw almonds
04 - 1 cup raw peanuts
→ Spices & Seasonings
05 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
06 - 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
07 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
08 - 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
09 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
10 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
11 - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
12 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
13 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
14 - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
→ Optional
15 - 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
# How-To Steps:
01 - Preheat oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Place all nuts in a large mixing bowl.
03 - In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, pepper, and maple syrup or honey if using.
04 - Pour the spice mixture over the nuts and toss thoroughly until evenly coated.
05 - Spread nuts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden and fragrant.
06 - Remove from oven and let cool completely on the tray. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- Once you start eating them, you literally cannot stop
- The spice blend hits every note, smoky, sharp, and earthy all at once
02 -
- Do not skip the cooling step because that is when the magic really happens and the texture transforms
- The nuts will continue cooking slightly on the hot pan, so pull them out when they look barely done
03 -
- Whisk your spice blend with a little warm water before adding oil to help it dissolve better
- Use your hands to toss the nuts for the most even coating, just wash them thoroughly first