Chipotle Roasted Nuts

We like chipotle chili powder and we like spiced nuts – so it was almost inevitable that the two would end up in a recipe together.  I first made them for the Superbowl party last weekend; and everyone loved them, so they’re a new favorite.  Spicy, sweet, and salty all at once – from brown sugar, maple syrup, and chipotle chili powder.   They’re very easy too.

2 lbs. deluxe whole mixed nuts (cashews, almonds, pecans, hazelnuts, etc.), salted

vegetable oil

1/3 cup pure maple sugar

1/4 cup light brown sugar

3 tablespoons orange juice

2 teaspoons ground chipotle pepper

Preheat the oven to 350°F and coat a sheet pan generously with vegetable oil (the mix is very sticky so coating the pan well helps during cleanup).  Combine 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, maple syrup, brown sugar, orange juice, and chipotle pepper.  Place the nuts on the sheet pan and toss with the spice mixture to coat evenly. 

Spread the nuts in one layer on the sheet pan and roast for 25 minutes, stirring twice, until the nuts are glazed and lightly browned.  Remove from the oven, toss well, and stir occasionally as they cool to prevent sticking.  Serve warm or cool completely and store in an airtight container.  Serves 8 to 10.