Name: Texan BBQ Candied Nuts
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: PT-487363H26M18S
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Texan-American
Ingredients: 1½ cups pecans; 1½ cups raw unsalted almonds (or toasted); 1 cup raw unsalted cashews (toasted ok too); 1½ tsp kosher/cooking salt (or ¾ tsp table salt); 25 g (1½ Tbsp) unsalted butter; ½ cup white sugar; 2 Tbsp water; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp chipotle powder (or substitute ¾ tsp extra smoked paprika); ½ tsp coriander powder; ½ tsp cumin powder; ½ tsp onion powder; ½ tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp black pepper; ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional); Sea salt flakes (optional finish)

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Short Description

Spicy-sweet candied nuts coated in a Texan-inspired sugar glaze with smoked paprika and chipotle—perfectly crunchy, bold in flavor, and ideal for snacking or gifting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A unique blend of sweetness, smokiness, and mild heat from chipotle
Crunchy pecans, almonds, and cashews in one delicious mix
Simple stovetop and baking steps, all made in one sheet pan
Versatile: great for snacking, adding to salads or cheese boards, or gifting in jars

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Nuts

1½ cups pecans
1½ cups raw unsalted almonds (or toasted almonds)
1 cup raw unsalted cashews (toasted ok too)
1½ tsp kosher/cooking salt (use ¾ tsp table salt; if using flaky salt, increase by 50%)

Texan Spiced Candy Coating

25 g (1½ Tbsp) unsalted butter
½ cup white sugar
2 Tbsp water
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp chipotle powder (or substitute with ¾ tsp extra smoked paprika for no spice)
½ tsp coriander powder
½ tsp cumin powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

Optional Finishing

Sea salt flakes, to taste

Directions

Preheat and Prep

Preheat oven to 180 °C (350 °F) (or 160 °C if using fan-forced).
Line a large baking tray with foil and top with parchment paper.

Step 1: Make Nuts Base

Place pecans, almonds, and cashews in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Create Candy Coating

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
Add sugar, water, smoked paprika, chipotle, coriander, cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and cayenne (if using).
Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 2 minutes, stirring regularly to prevent burning.

Step 3: Coat the Nuts

Pour the hot candied coating over the nuts.
Toss immediately with a rubber spatula to coat nuts thoroughly—mixture should be thick and cling to the nuts without pooling.

Step 4: Bake

Spread the coated nuts in a single layer on the prepared baking tray.
Bake for 20 minutes, stirring and flipping halfway through to ensure even browning.
You’re aiming for a deep golden color and minimal loose syrup in the tray.

Step 5: Cool and Break Up

Cool the tray undisturbed for 10 minutes, then break apart the nuts gently while still warm—this helps separate clusters.
Allow them to fully cool for about 30 minutes, during which the coating will harden and become crisp.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Optional: sprinkle with sea salt flakes once cooled for a glossy, seasoned finish.
Serve in bowls, pack into jars, or use as garnish on salads or cheese platters.

Servings And Timing

Servings: Makes about 4 cups of candied nuts (depends on cluster size)
Prep Time: ~5 minutes
Cook Time: ~2 minutes candy + 20 minutes baking
Cooling Time: ~40 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour

Variations

Nut Swap: Substitute walnuts, macadamias, or hazelnuts to mix textures.
Spice Level: Omit chipotle or cayenne for a milder version, or increase for heat lovers.
Sweet Flavor: Use brown sugar or coconut sugar instead of white sugar.
Sweet & Savory: Finish with a drizzle of honey over cooled nuts for extra gloss.
Seasoning Twist: Add a pinch of chili powder, cinnamon, or even espresso powder for complexity.

Storage/Reheating

Storing: Store completely cooled nuts in an airtight container or jar. They stay crisp for up to 2 weeks at room temperature.
Reheating: Warm gently in a 150 °C (300 °F) oven for 5–7 minutes to revive crunch if they lose crispness.

FAQs

Can I Use Pre‑Toasted Nuts?

Yes—just reduce baking time by about 5 minutes to avoid over-roasting.

How Do I Know When Coating Is Right Thickness?

The coating should cling evenly to the nut surfaces and appear thick—not runny or pooled.

What If Nuts Stick Together In Clumps?

Break clusters gently while still warm for easier separation.

Why Cook Sauce Before Coating?

Simmering ensures sugar dissolves and spices meld to form a smooth glaze that bonds to the nuts.

Can I Make This Gluten-Free or Paleo?

Yes—ensure your sugar is compliant and opt for coconut sugar or maple sugar for paleo variation.

Is This Suitable For Vegan Diets?

Yes—use dairy-free butter or coconut oil as a substitute.

How Can I Gift These Nuts?

Pack cooled nuts into clean jars, and tie with ribbon or label for homemade gift presentation.

What’s The Best Serving Idea?

Serve in small bowls at parties or include as a crunchy topping for salads and cheese boards.

Conclusion

Texan BBQ Candied Nuts deliver crunchy, smoky, and sweet perfection in every bite. With a buttery spiced sugar glaze and a mix of pecans, almonds, and cashews, these nuts are a flavorful snack or thoughtful gift. Simple to make and endlessly versatile, they add Texan flair to any occasion.