Sweet Smoky Lime Cashews

This sweet, smoky, and tangy candied cashew recipe transforms ordinary nuts into an addictive snack that balances heat with sweetness. The hint of lime brightens the flavor profile while chipotle adds a pleasant smoky kick. These cashews disappear quickly at gatherings and make perfect gifts in decorative jars.

I first made these candied cashews for a neighborhood potluck and came home with an empty container and multiple recipe requests. Now they're part of my regular holiday gift rotation for friends and family.

Ingredients

• Whole roasted unsalted cashews: Provide the perfect canvas for the flavoring. Their buttery texture and mild flavor absorb the coating beautifully.
• Vegetable oil: Helps the coating adhere evenly to the nuts and promotes browning.
• Light brown sugar: Adds caramel notes that complement the cashews' natural sweetness.
• Honey: Creates that perfect sticky glaze and provides a more complex sweetness than sugar alone.
• Fresh lime juice: Cuts through the sweetness with bright acidity for balance.
• Ground chipotle powder: Brings smoky heat that intensifies as the nuts cool. Look for pure ground chipotle without salt or additives.
• Sea salt: Enhances all flavors and creates that irresistible sweet-salty contrast.

How To Make Chipotle Lime Candied Cashews

Prepare the oven and pan:

Set your oven to 350°F with the rack in the center position. Lightly coat a large rimmed baking sheet with oil to prevent sticking as the sugar caramelizes.

Coat the cashews:

Toss the cashews with vegetable oil in a large bowl until every nut has a light sheen. This oil base helps the sweet coating adhere evenly and promotes gorgeous browning.

Mix the coating:

Whisk together brown sugar, honey, lime juice, chipotle powder, and salt until thoroughly combined. The mixture will look somewhat thick but pourable. Make sure there are no clumps of chipotle powder for even heat distribution.

Combine cashews and coating:

Pour the sweet and spicy mixture over the oiled cashews and toss thoroughly until every cashew is glistening with coating. Take your time here to ensure even coverage.

Bake with attention:

Spread the coated cashews in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Bake for a total of 25-30 minutes, but crucially, stir them every 8 minutes to prevent burning and ensure even caramelization.

Monitor final browning:

Watch carefully during the final minutes of baking. The coating will transform from wet and sticky to a glossy glaze as it caramelizes. The nuts are ready when they look glazed and golden brown.

Cool properly:

Transfer the hot cashews to a clean sheet pan using a slotted utensil. Stir frequently during cooling to prevent clumping as the sugar sets. This is the perfect time to add a final sprinkle of salt if needed.

Store correctly:

Once completely cooled, transfer to an airtight container. Proper storage maintains their perfect texture and extends freshness for weeks.

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The chipotle powder is truly the star ingredient here. I discovered its transformative power when experimenting with different spices, and nothing compares to that distinctive smoky heat. My family now requests these specifically for our annual cabin trip where they disappear within hours.

Storage Tips

These candied cashews will maintain their optimal texture and flavor for up to two weeks when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, they can be refrigerated for up to one month or frozen for three months. If you notice any loss of crispness after refrigeration or freezing, simply refresh them in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes, then cool completely before returning to storage.

Flavor Variations

While the chipotle-lime combination is spectacular, this recipe welcomes customization. For a different flavor profile, try substituting orange zest and juice for the lime with a pinch of cinnamon and cayenne. Alternatively, create a curry version using curry powder, a touch of ginger, and orange juice instead of lime. For a dessert-oriented version, replace the chipotle with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a splash of vanilla extract.

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Serving Suggestions

These candied cashews elevate many dishes beyond their standalone snack status. Roughly chop them to add crunch and flavor to salads, particularly those featuring fruits like pears or apples. They make a wonderful topping for vanilla ice cream or creamy desserts. For an elegant appetizer, serve alongside a cheese board where they pair beautifully with aged cheddar or creamy brie. They also add wonderful texture and flavor when sprinkled over roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes or butternut squash.

Gift Packaging Ideas

Transform these cashews into thoughtful homemade gifts by packaging them creatively. Fill small mason jars and decorate with custom labels and ribbon for holidays. For health-conscious friends, portion them into small cellophane bags with ingredient cards noting their gluten-free and dairy-free status. Create a gourmet snack basket by pairing them with homemade crackers and local honey. The delicious aroma that wafts from the package makes opening these gifts a sensory experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I ensure even coating on the cashews?

Toss the cashews thoroughly with the glaze in a large bowl to evenly coat before spreading them onto the baking sheet. Stirring during baking also helps distribute the coating consistently.

→ Can I use other nuts in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute other nuts like almonds, pecans, or walnuts. Adjust roasting times as needed depending on the nut's size and density.

→ How can I adjust the spice level?

To make the cashews spicier, add additional ground chipotle or a pinch of cayenne pepper. For less heat, reduce the chipotle powder slightly while keeping the other ingredients the same.

→ What is the best way to store the candied cashews?

Store the fully-cooled cashews in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

→ Can I skip the honey for a vegan option?

Yes, replace honey with an equal amount of maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan-friendly alternative. The flavor will slightly differ, but it will still be delicious.