Pumpkin Spice Roasted Nuts
To be honest, I’m not a big fan of pumpkin so although I put out the pumpkin muffins and cookies and treats, I’m really looking for more of a savory spiced approach to the season.
I made this recipe as a riff on my Herb Roasted Nuts and rather than rustic flavors these nuts provide a warming spice blend that is equally crave-worthy. These nuts make a great mid-day snack or are sure to be the star of your next holiday cheese board.
Food-as-Medicine:
Nuts and seeds are hearty healthy in that they have a favorable role in lowering total LDL while increasing HDL and they provide a source of magnesium to aid in cardiac function while reducing blood pressure. The nuts featured are antiinflammatory and can support healthy brain function while serving to balance blood sugar as healthy fats. The warming seasoning blend provides further antioxidant and antiinflammatory boost while contributing to a unique flavor profile of warming spices with a kick.
Ingredients:
2 cups raw cashews
2 cup raw pecans
⅔ cup raw almonds
½ cup raw walnuts
½ cup pepitas
2 Tbsp sesame seeds
3 Tbsp robust maple syrup
1 Tbsp raw honey
3 Tbsp coconut oil
1 Tbsp olive oil
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp pumpkin spice blend
½ tsp cinnamon
½ tsp ginger
½ tsp ancho chili powder
Pinch cayenne pepper
½ tsp mineral sea salt
1 tsp flakey salt
Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F. Combine all nuts and seeds in a medium sized bowl. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple, honey, coconut oil, olive oil, and vanilla. Combine spices and fine mineral salt in a small bowl to incorporate then whisk the seasonings into the liquid mixture. Pour liquid mixture over the nut blend and toss in bowl with your hands to ensure all are coated. Then spread the mixture on the prepared baking sheet/s ensuring all have contact with the parchment and are not over crowded. Sprinkle liberally with flaky sea salt and put in over at top rack for 45-60 minutes checking at 40 minutes. Nuts should be fragrant and slightly browned but not burned. Let nuts cool and break up parchment for clusters.
Enjoy on a cheese board or as a salty, crunchy, savory snack.
Line a large baking sheet or 2 standard baking sheets with unbleached parchment Here is a link to my extra large stainless steel sheet pan, it only fits the top rack of my oven but I love it. Check out my favorite non-toxic pan in my Amazon store.
