Sometimes you just need a salty, crunchy snack that hits the spot. These bacon spiced cashews are the perfect answer for your mid-afternoon cravings. They offer a smoky flavor that feels like a real treat. You can whip them up quickly whenever hunger strikes.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
These bacon spiced cashews are incredibly versatile for any lifestyle. They fit perfectly into a Paleo or Whole30 healthy reset. The combination of cinnamon and cayenne creates a deep, warm flavor. It is a great choice for cozy fall gatherings. Your friends will love the savory and smoky crunch.
Simple Method
You only need one skillet and a baking sheet for this recipe. First, you crisp the bacon to get that liquid gold fat. Then, you toss the nuts in the warm fat and spices. Roasting them makes the house smell absolutely wonderful and inviting. Even a beginner cook can master this simple process easily.
Simple Ingredients
Most of these items are likely already in your pantry right now.
- 2 cups raw unsalted cashews
- 1/3 cup sugar-free thick-cut bacon, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon rendered bacon fat (reserved from skillet)
Step-by-Step
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place chopped sugar-free bacon in a cold skillet and bring to medium heat. Cook until the bacon is crispy and fat is rendered, approximately 5 to 7 minutes.
- Remove bacon bits with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Reserve 1 tablespoon of the warm bacon fat in a medium mixing bowl.
- Add the raw cashews to the mixing bowl with the bacon fat and toss until all nuts are evenly coated.
- In a small ramekin, whisk together the sea salt, ground cinnamon, and cayenne pepper.
- Sprinkle the spice blend over the cashews and toss again until the spices adhere to the fat coating.
- Spread the seasoned cashews in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the cashews are golden brown and aromatic.
- Remove from the oven and immediately stir in the reserved crispy bacon bits.
- Allow the mixture to cool completely on the tray to ensure the cashews reach their final crunchy texture.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
These cashews are a fantastic addition to any charcuterie board. Serve them warm in a small bowl for a satisfying snack. They also add a great crunch to fresh garden salads. Pack them in small containers for easy weekday lunches. Set them out at your next football party and watch them disappear.
Storage & Reheating
Keep your leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and crunchy for up to five days. If you want them warm again, use your oven. Reheat them at 325°F for about five minutes. This helps the bacon fat crisp up the nuts again. Avoid using the microwave as it can make them soft.
Recipe Tips
- Don’t skip the cooling time on the baking sheet.
- Watch the oven closely to avoid burning the delicate nuts.
- Use pecans or almonds if you run out of cashews.
- Prep the spice mix ahead of time to save minutes.
- For holiday gifts, pack these in pretty glass jars.
- Add a sprinkle of fresh rosemary for an upscale twist.
- Ensure your bacon is truly sugar-free for Whole30 compliance.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Swap bacon fat for coconut oil for a vegetarian version.
- Add pumpkin pie spice for a festive fall flavor profile.
- Use smoked paprika instead of cayenne for a milder heat.
- Stir in a few dried cranberries after roasting for sweetness.
Quick Answers
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these a few days early. Just store them in a sealed jar to keep them fresh. They are perfect for meal prep snacks.
How do I know when they are done?
The nuts will turn a light golden brown color. You will also notice a very warm and nutty aroma. They will crisp up more as they cool down.
Are these spicy?
There is a tiny kick from the cayenne pepper. However, the cinnamon and salt balance the heat beautifully. Most kids find them very tasty and not too hot.
I hope these savory nuts bring a little warmth to your kitchen this season. They are so simple to make and even better to share with friends. Happy snacking!
— Alex
Ingredients
- 2 cups raw unsalted cashews
- 1/3 cup sugar -free thick-cut bacon, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon rendered bacon fat (reserved from skillet)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place chopped sugar-free bacon in a cold skillet and bring to medium heat. Cook until the bacon is crispy and fat is rendered, approximately 5 to 7 minutes.
- Remove bacon bits with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Reserve 1 tablespoon of the warm bacon fat in a medium mixing bowl.
- Add the raw cashews to the mixing bowl with the bacon fat and toss until all nuts are evenly coated.
- In a small ramekin, whisk together the sea salt, ground cinnamon, and cayenne pepper.
- Sprinkle the spice blend over the cashews and toss again until the spices adhere to the fat coating.
- Spread the seasoned cashews in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the cashews are golden brown and aromatic.
- Remove from the oven and immediately stir in the reserved crispy bacon bits.
- Allow the mixture to cool completely on the tray to ensure the cashews reach their final crunchy texture.
