Sugared Nuts

 

Sugared and spiced pecans, almonds, cashews, and even walnuts have long been a Holiday staple in many Southern homes. This is a quick and easy way to dress up regular nuts for a celebration, to give out as favors, or to include in a Holiday treat tray or special occasion gift basket. They're also tasty crumbled on top of savory foods and salads.

 

Ingredients

2 cups of salted almonds, or whole cashews, walnut or pecan halves

1 cup of granulated or coarse sugar 2 teaspoons of light brown sugar

1 teaspoon of kosher salt

2 heaping teaspoons of cinnamon

Dash of allspice

1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper

1 egg white

1 tablespoon of cold water

 

Heat the oven to 275°F. A baking pan lined with aluminum foil should be sprayed with butter or sprayed with cooking spray.

Combine the sugars, salt, cinnamon, allspice, and cayenne pepper in a mixing bowl until thoroughly blended. Combine the egg white and cold water in a mixing bowl and whisk until extremely foamy. Stir the nuts into the egg white and mix until well covered. Add the nuts to the sugar mixture using a slotted spoon, stir well, and scatter in a single layer on the baking sheet. Roasting at 275°F for 30 to 40 minutes, or until aromatic, stirring occasionally. Allow it cool completely on the tray, mixing several times to separate.