If you’re on the hunt for a snack that hits every note—smoky, herby, spicy, and satisfyingly crunchy—look no further than my favorite Chipotle and Rosemary Spiced Nuts Recipe. These nuts bring together the warm earthiness of chipotle pepper with the fragrant, piney aroma of fresh rosemary, creating a perfectly balanced bite that’s impossible to stop munching. Whether you’re prepping for a cozy night in or want to impress guests with something unexpectedly delicious, this recipe is your new best friend in the snack world.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, fresh ingredients make all the difference here, and each one plays a special role in creating layers of flavor and texture. From the richness of the nuts to the fragrant olive oil infused with herbs and spices, these ingredients come together in a way that feels both uncomplicated and expertly crafted.
- 2 cups whole cashews: Creamy and buttery, cashews provide a smooth crunch that is utterly addictive.
- 2 cups pecan halves: Offering a natural sweetness and rich texture, pecans add depth to the mix.
- 1 cup whole almonds: Their firm crunch and slightly sweet earthiness contrast beautifully with the softer nuts.
- ¼ cup olive oil: Infuses the nuts with a smooth richness and helps the spices stick perfectly.
- 4 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary (divided): This herb gives the nuts a woodsy, aromatic lift you won’t want to miss.
- 1 – 2 teaspoons ground chipotle powder: Add according to your spice tolerance to bring smoky heat and complexity.
- 1 teaspoon cumin: Adds a warm, earthy backbone that complements the chipotle and rosemary.
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper: For an extra kick that brightens the flavor punch.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Balances the heat with a subtle sharpness.
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt: Essential for enhancing every savory note in the mix.
How to Make Chipotle and Rosemary Spiced Nuts Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees. This temperature is perfect for roasting nuts to a golden, toasty perfection without burning. Line a large jelly roll pan with parchment paper—it not only makes cleanup easier but ensures your nuts roast evenly and don’t stick to the pan.
Step 2: Infuse the Olive Oil with Herbs and Spices
Pour all the nuts into a large mixing bowl, giving you enough space to toss them well later. Warm the olive oil gently in a small pan—just until it’s warm enough to smell the rosemary and spices, but not so hot that it burns. Stir in 3 tablespoons of chopped fresh rosemary and let it mingle with the oil for about one minute until fragrant. Then add the chipotle powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper to this fragrant oil, stirring to combine all those bold flavors.
Step 3: Coat the Nuts and Season
Pour your hot, fragrant oil and spice mixture over the nuts and stir vigorously to ensure every nut is luxuriously coated. Next, sprinkle in the kosher salt and black pepper—seasoning this early means the flavor seeps into every bite. Adjust salt and chipotle powder to your preference if you want more heat or saltiness.
Step 4: Roast Until Golden and Aromatic
Spread your perfectly spiced nuts evenly across the parchment-lined pan to ensure they roast evenly. Place them in the oven and roast for 15 to 20 minutes. Make sure to stir them one time halfway through so they toast beautifully on all sides and develop that irresistible golden hue.
Step 5: Final Touches and Cooling
Once your nuts emerge from the oven, sprinkle the remaining chopped rosemary and a little extra salt over the top while they are still hot. This boosts the fresh herbal aroma and layers on texture. Let them cool completely on the sheet—this step lets the flavors set and the nuts crisp up perfectly before serving.
How to Serve Chipotle and Rosemary Spiced Nuts Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a few sprigs of fresh rosemary on your serving tray or a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt over the top creates a visual and flavor boost that invites guests to dig in. You can also toss in some lemon zest for a bright contrast to the smoky spice.
Side Dishes
These spiced nuts pair amazingly with soft cheeses like goat cheese or cream cheese, making for a quick and charming appetizer. Serve alongside a board of cured meats, olives, and fresh fruit to build a crowd-pleasing snack spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the bowl: place these nuts in small Mason jars tied with a rustic ribbon for gift-giving, or scatter them on a crisp green salad for an unexpected texture and flavor pop. They also make a fantastic crunchy topping for soups and roasted vegetables.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store your Chipotle and Rosemary Spiced Nuts Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and crunchy for up to two weeks, making them a perfect snack to grab whenever the craving hits.
Freezing
You can freeze the nuts in a sealed freezer bag for up to three months. When you want a quick snack, just thaw at room temperature—no need to re-roast, as the snap and flavor will hold up beautifully.
Reheating
If you want to bring back that freshly roasted warmth, pop the nuts on a baking sheet in a 300-degree oven for 5 to 8 minutes. This will refresh the crunch and intensify the aromatic flavors like you just pulled them out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I use dried rosemary instead of fresh?
While fresh rosemary gives the best vibrant aroma and texture, you can substitute with dried rosemary if needed. Use about one-third of the fresh amount and crush it slightly before mixing to help release its oils.
How spicy is this Chipotle and Rosemary Spiced Nuts Recipe?
The recipe is moderately spicy, thanks to the chipotle powder and cayenne pepper. If you prefer it milder, start with 1 teaspoon of chipotle powder and reduce or omit the cayenne. For a bolder kick, add more chipotle powder or cayenne to taste.
Can I use other nuts instead of cashews, pecans, and almonds?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in walnuts, macadamia nuts, or hazelnuts based on your preference or what you have on hand. Just keep the total quantity roughly the same to ensure even roasting.
Is olive oil the best choice for roasting the nuts?
Olive oil works wonderfully because of its flavor and health benefits, but you can also use avocado oil or another neutral oil with a high smoke point if you prefer. The key is to use an oil that will complement the spices without overpowering them.
How long will these spiced nuts keep their crispness?
Stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, they maintain their crunch and flavor for about two weeks. After that, they’re still safe to eat but might lose some of their crisp texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Chipotle and Rosemary Spiced Nuts Recipe. It transforms everyday nuts into a snack bursting with personality and warmth that feels like a little celebration every time you reach for a handful. Give it a try for your next gathering or just so you always have a flavorful, wholesome treat at your fingertips—you won’t regret it!
Print
Chipotle and Rosemary Spiced Nuts Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 5.5 cups
- Category: Snack
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Chipotle and Rosemary Spiced Nuts are a flavorful and crunchy snack featuring a vibrant blend of smoky chipotle, fresh rosemary, and warm spices. Perfect for serving at gatherings or enjoying anytime you want a spicy, herby nut mix with a sophisticated flair.
Ingredients
Nuts
- 2 cups whole cashews
- 2 cups pecans halves
- 1 cup whole almonds
Seasoning and Oil
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 4 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary (divided)
- 1–2 teaspoons ground chipotle powder (adjust based on desired spice level)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt (adjust to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large jelly roll pan with parchment paper and set it aside. This will prevent the nuts from sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Mix Spiced Oil: Place all the nuts in a large mixing bowl. Warm the olive oil in a small pan over low heat until just warm, then add 3 tablespoons of the chopped fresh rosemary. Stir for about one minute until the oil becomes fragrant but not hot enough to burn. Remove from heat, then stir in ground chipotle powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper.
- Coat Nuts: Pour the seasoned oil mixture over the nuts. Add kosher salt and black pepper to taste and stir thoroughly to make sure all nuts are evenly coated with the spicy-herb mixture.
- Roast Nuts: Spread the nuts evenly over the prepared baking pan. Roast them in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring once halfway through cooking to ensure even roasting. Roast until the nuts turn golden brown and smell toasted.
- Finish and Cool: Remove the nuts from the oven and immediately sprinkle with the remaining fresh rosemary and additional salt if desired. Allow the nuts to cool completely to room temperature on the baking pan before storing or serving.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of chipotle powder depending on your spice preference.
- Stirring the nuts halfway through roasting helps to toast them evenly without burning.
- Using parchment paper helps with easy cleanup and prevents nuts from sticking to the pan.
- These nuts can be stored in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
- Optionally, experiment with other nuts like walnuts or macadamia nuts for variety.
