Texan BBQ Candied Nuts Recipe
Texan BBQ Candied Nuts are a deliciously sweet and smoky snack featuring mixed nuts coated in brown sugar and barbecue seasoning, then baked to a caramelized perfection. Perfect for parties, snacking, or adding crunch to salads and desserts, these nuts combine the rich flavors of Texas-style BBQ with a sweet candy coating.
- Author: Lila
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: About 2 cups 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Texan
Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed nuts (such as pecans, cashews, almonds, and walnuts)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon BBQ seasoning (store-bought or homemade blend)
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted (optional for better coating)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional, adjust based on BBQ seasoning saltiness)
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the nuts.
- Prepare Coating: In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, BBQ seasoning, melted butter, and salt. Stir well to create a uniform sweet and smoky mixture.
- Coat Nuts: Add the mixed nuts into the bowl and toss thoroughly until all nuts are evenly coated with the brown sugar and BBQ seasoning mixture.
- Bake Nuts: Spread the coated nuts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the nuts are caramelized and fragrant. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the nuts cool completely on the sheet. The coating will harden as they cool, creating a crispy shell.
Notes
- Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and make cleaning easier.
- Stirring halfway during baking ensures even caramelization of the nuts.
- Customize BBQ seasoning heat level to your preference—add cayenne pepper for a spicy kick if desired.
- Store cooled candied nuts in an airtight container for up to two weeks to keep them fresh.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or garlic powder to the seasoning blend.
Keywords: Texan BBQ Candied Nuts, candied nuts, BBQ nuts, caramelized nuts, sweet and smoky snack, party snack, baked nuts