If you love a snack that packs both a punch of smoky heat and an aromatic herbal twist, the Chipotle and Rosemary Spiced Nuts Recipe is going to be your new go-to. This snack brings together crunchy cashews, pecans, and almonds tossed in a fragrant, flavor-packed blend of fresh rosemary and smoky chipotle powder, creating a perfect balance of spice and earthiness. Whether you’re entertaining guests, looking for a sophisticated nibble with drinks, or just craving a deliciously seasoned treat, this recipe delivers big on flavor and texture without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Chipotle and Rosemary Spiced Nuts Recipe is easy and rewarding since each component plays a vital role in flavor, texture, or aroma. The nuts provide a rich, crunchy base while the herbs and spices create a unique, savory coating that elevates every bite.
- 2 cups whole cashews: Creamy and buttery, these nuts add a soft crunch that contrasts beautifully with the spices.
- 2 cups pecans halves: Their natural sweetness deepens the flavor profile and offers a delightful texture.
- 1 cup whole almonds: Firm and crisp, almonds round out the nut mix for variety and nutty depth.
- ¼ cup olive oil: This warms the spices and helps them stick evenly to the nuts while adding a rich mouthfeel.
- 4 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary (divided): Fresh rosemary adds a piney, herbaceous lift that’s aromatic and bright.
- 1-2 teaspoons ground chipotle powder: Smoked and spicy, this powder delivers a warming heat that’s unforgettable; adjust to your spice preference.
- 1 teaspoon cumin: Earthy and slightly nutty, cumin deepens the smoky character without overpowering.
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper: This adds subtle heat in the background, enhancing the chipotle’s fire.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Freshly cracked for a sharp bite and added complexity.
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt: Essential for balancing all the flavors and enhancing the natural taste of the nuts.
How to Make Chipotle and Rosemary Spiced Nuts Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Meanwhile, line a large jelly roll pan with parchment paper to keep the nuts from sticking and make cleanup a breeze. This simple first step sets the stage for perfectly roasted nuts that are golden and crunchy.
Step 2: Infuse the Olive Oil with Herbs and Spices
Pour all the nuts into a large mixing bowl. Warm the olive oil gently in a small pan until just warm to the touch. Add 3 tablespoons of the chopped fresh rosemary and stir the oil over low heat for about a minute until it’s fragrant but not browned. Next, stir in the chipotle powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper, which will bloom beautifully in the warm oil, locking in that deep spiced flavor before coating the nuts.
Step 3: Toss and Season Your Nuts
Pour the flavored oil mixture over the nuts and stir well so every nut gets an even, sumptuous coating. Then, season the mixture generously with kosher salt and black pepper. This step is key to layering the flavors perfectly — don’t be shy with the seasoning, because it will enhance the smoky and herbal notes wonderfully as the nuts roast.
Step 4: Roast to Perfection
Spread the coated nuts out in a single layer on the prepared pan. Roast them in your preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, stirring once halfway through roasting. The nuts should turn a gorgeous golden brown, releasing a toasty aroma that fills your kitchen and makes it impossible to wait.
Step 5: Final Touches After Roasting
Remove the pan from the oven and immediately sprinkle the remaining fresh rosemary and an extra pinch of salt over the hot nuts. This last flourish gives a fresh herbal brightness and just a hint more seasoning. Let the nuts cool completely to room temperature — this also allows them to crisp up perfectly before serving.
How to Serve Chipotle and Rosemary Spiced Nuts Recipe
Garnishes
These spiced nuts stand out on their own, but a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a few fresh rosemary sprigs on the serving bowl adds a charming rustic touch. You can even toss a little smoked paprika on top for an extra smoky pop if you want to impress your guests visually and flavor-wise.
Side Dishes
Serve these nuts alongside a well-curated cheese platter or with slices of crusty artisanal bread and a dollop of honey for a sweet-savory combination. They also pair perfectly with cocktails like margaritas or whiskey sours, where their spice complements the drink’s zing beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, place them in small mason jars with chalkboard labels, or fill rustic wooden bowls for a cozy vibe. They can double as edible hostess gifts when packaged in cellophane bags tied with twine and a sprig of rosemary — a personal touch that friends and family will appreciate.
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 maintain their crispness and flavor for up to two weeks, making them perfect for preparing ahead for gatherings or just keeping on hand for a quick snack.
Freezing
If you want to keep these nuts even longer, freezing is a great option. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, and they’ll stay fresh for up to three months without losing their crunch or flavor. Just remember to thaw them at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
To bring back their freshly roasted warmth and crunch after storing, simply spread the nuts on a baking sheet and warm in a 300-degree oven for 5-7 minutes. This quick reheat refreshes the spices and oil without drying out the nuts.
FAQs
Can I use other types of nuts in the Chipotle and Rosemary Spiced Nuts Recipe?
Absolutely! While cashews, pecans, and almonds work wonderfully, feel free to add walnuts, hazelnuts, or even macadamia nuts for a different texture or flavor profile. Just keep the total quantity around 5 to 5.5 cups to ensure even roasting.
How spicy is the chipotle powder in this recipe?
The chipotle powder offers a moderate smoky heat that can be adjusted according to your preference. Start with 1 teaspoon if you prefer milder heat and increase to 2 teaspoons for a bolder kick. The cayenne adds a subtle back-end heat that complements rather than overwhelms.
Can I make this recipe vegan and gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free as it uses only nuts, herbs, and spices with olive oil. Just make sure all your spices are certified gluten-free if you have sensitivities.
What is the best way to chop fresh rosemary for this recipe?
Use a sharp knife to finely chop fresh rosemary needles, removing any thick woody stems. Chopping finely helps the rosemary release more flavor and evenly coat the nuts without tough bits.
Can I make this recipe without olive oil?
While olive oil is recommended for its flavor and ability to carry the spices, you can substitute it with other neutral oils like avocado or grapeseed oil. Avoid using oils with strong flavors that might compete with the chipotle and rosemary.
Final Thoughts
Making and sharing this Chipotle and Rosemary Spiced Nuts Recipe is one of those little joys that instantly lifts any occasion. The blend of smoky, spicy, and herbaceous notes transforms simple nuts into something truly special. Once you try it, these spiced nuts are bound to become a favorite snack or gift idea that you’ll make again and again. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and enjoy every crunchy, flavorful bite!
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
Description
These Chipotle and Rosemary Spiced Nuts are a flavorful and aromatic snack combining the smoky heat of chipotle powder with the fresh, piney notes of rosemary. A perfectly balanced mix of cashews, pecans, and almonds are infused with a blend of spices and roasted to golden perfection for a crunchy, savory treat ideal for parties or everyday snacking.
Ingredients
Nuts
- 2 cups whole cashews
- 2 cups pecan halves
- 1 cup whole almonds
Spice Mix & Oil
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 4 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary (divided)
- 1–2 teaspoons ground chipotle powder (adjust to heat preference)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt (or to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large jelly roll pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even roasting, then set aside.
- Prepare the spiced oil: Pour the mixed nuts into a large mixing bowl. In a small pan, gently warm the olive oil until just warm to the touch, then add 3 tablespoons of chopped fresh rosemary. Stir continuously for about one minute until the oil becomes fragrant, taking care not to let it burn. Add the ground chipotle powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper to the oil, stirring to combine thoroughly.
- Coat the nuts: Pour the spiced rosemary oil over the nuts in the bowl. Stir well to ensure all nuts are evenly coated. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper, stirring again to distribute the seasonings thoroughly. Adjust salt quantity to your taste preference, using up to 2 teaspoons as suggested.
- Roast the nuts: Transfer the coated nuts onto the prepared baking pan, spreading them out in an even layer. Roast in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring once halfway through to promote even browning and toasty flavors. The nuts should turn golden brown.
- Final seasoning and cooling: Remove the roasted nuts from the oven. Immediately sprinkle the remaining tablespoon of fresh rosemary and additional salt if desired over the hot nuts. Allow the nuts to cool to room temperature on the pan; they will crisp up further as they cool.
Notes
- Adjust chipotle powder according to desired spiciness. Start with 1 teaspoon and add more if you prefer heat.
- Stir nuts halfway through roasting to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
- Store cooled nuts in an airtight container to maintain freshness up to two weeks.
- Feel free to substitute or add other nuts such as walnuts or macadamia nuts based on preference.
- Use fresh rosemary for best flavor; dried rosemary may alter texture and taste.
