It was a crisp autumn afternoon, and the air was filled with the scent of fallen leaves and the promise of the harvest season. I found myself wandering through a quaint farmer’s market, captivated by the vibrant colors of seasonal produce and the warm chatter of vendors. As I strolled, a charming stall caught my eye, overflowing with an assortment of nuts. The vendor, an elderly gentleman with laughter lines etched around his eyes, beckoned me closer and offered me a sample of his spiced nut mix. The combination of sweet maple syrup and a kick of spices was an explosion of flavor that inspired me to create my own version. Thus, the Spiced Maple Nut Medley was born—a delightful snack that perfectly captures the essence of fall!
Ingredients
1 cup raw almonds
1 cup raw walnuts
1 cup raw pecans
1/2 cup raw pumpkin seeds
1/4 cup maple syrup
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help to achieve that perfect crunch without sticking.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the raw almonds, walnuts, pecans, and pumpkin seeds. The mix of textures and flavors will create a delightful medley that’s sure to please any nut lover.
In a small saucepan over low heat, whisk together the maple syrup, olive oil, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, sea salt, nutmeg, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined and warmed through. The aromas of the spices will fill your kitchen, making you feel right at home.
Pour the warm maple mixture over the nuts and seeds, tossing everything together until all the nuts are evenly coated. Each nut should glisten with the sweet and spicy concoction, inviting you to dive right in.
Spread the nut mixture in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even toasting. Keep a watchful eye, as nuts can quickly go from perfectly roasted to burnt.
Once golden and fragrant, remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the nuts to cool completely. As they cool, they will become beautifully crunchy.
If you like, sprinkle some dried cranberries over the top for a pop of color and added sweetness. This step is optional, but it certainly takes the presentation to the next level!
Serve your Spiced Maple Nut Medley in a rustic bowl or pack them into jars as thoughtful gifts. Each bite is a harmonious blend of sweet and spicy that captures the spirit of autumn. Perfect for snacking, topping on salads, or even as a unique addition to your charcuterie board!
Enjoy this nut medley during cozy gatherings or whenever you need a little taste of fall. It’s a recipe that will warm your heart and fill your home with delightful aromas, making memories that last long after the last nut has been enjoyed.