Sweet & Spicy Peanuts

Sweet & Spicy Peanuts are a delicious, addictive snack that combines the perfect balance of heat and sweetness. The peanuts are coated in a sticky, flavorful glaze made from honey, brown sugar, and a kick of chili or cayenne pepper. Once roasted, they develop a crisp, crunchy texture on the outside, while still maintaining a tender interior, making each bite a delightful mix of sweet and spicy flavors that are hard to stop munching on.

I first made these peanuts when I was looking for a fun snack with a bit of a kick, and they quickly became a go-to favorite. The honey and sugar provide the sweetness that’s perfectly balanced by the spicy kick of chili or cayenne, creating a flavor profile that’s both comforting and exciting. What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to make—just a few ingredients and a quick toss in the oven, and you’ve got a snack that’s perfect for movie nights, parties, or a quick treat throughout the day. These peanuts also make a great gift in a jar or can be added as a crunchy topping to salads or roasted vegetables for a little extra flavor and texture.

Perfect for:

• Game nights
• Movie marathons
• Parties
• Snack lovers
• Spicy food enthusiasts

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why these Sweet & Spicy Peanuts will become your go-to snack:

• Perfect Sweet and Spicy Balance: The combination of honey, brown sugar, and chili powder creates a mouthwatering sweet and spicy kick.
• Crunchy and Addictive: Roasting the peanuts gives them an irresistible crunch with every bite.
• Quick and Easy: With only a few simple ingredients, these peanuts are ready in no time.
• Versatile Snack: Perfect for any occasion, from casual snacks to party appetizers.
• Customizable Heat Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control how spicy you want your peanuts.
• Great for Gift-Giving: Package them in a decorative jar or bag for a thoughtful homemade gift.
• No Special Equipment Needed: You can make these peanuts with just a baking sheet and a few basic kitchen tools.
• Perfect for Pairing: Pair with a cold drink or mix into your favorite snack mix for a savory treat.
• Ideal for Make-Ahead Snacking: These peanuts store well, so you can prep them ahead of time for your next event.
• Gluten-Free: A naturally gluten-free snack that’s great for anyone with dietary restrictions.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 8g, Carbs: 20g, Fat: 18g

Ingredients

For the Peanuts:

• 2 cups unsalted peanuts
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt

Ingredient Highlights

• Honey: Adds a natural sweetness and helps the coating stick to the peanuts.
• Chili Powder and Cayenne Pepper: Provide a spicy kick that balances out the sweetness.
• Brown Sugar: Gives a rich sweetness that caramelizes during roasting, adding depth of flavor.
• Peanuts: Offer a crunchy texture and a good source of protein.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Peanuts:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Mix the Coating: In a large bowl, combine honey, brown sugar, chili powder, cayenne pepper, paprika, and salt. Stir until well mixed.
3. Coat the Peanuts: Add the peanuts to the bowl and stir to coat them evenly in the sweet and spicy mixture.
4. Spread on Baking Sheet: Spread the coated peanuts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Roast the Peanuts: Roast the peanuts in the oven for 15-20 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes, until they are golden and crispy.
6. Cool: Remove the peanuts from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet. They will continue to crisp up as they cool.

Serve:

7. Serve and Enjoy: Once cooled, enjoy these sweet and spicy peanuts as a snack or add them to a party spread for a flavorful addition.

How to Serve

Here are 10 serving suggestions for Sweet & Spicy Peanuts:

• As a Snack: Perfect for enjoying during a movie or game night.
• Party Appetizer: Serve in small bowls at your next gathering for a crowd-pleasing treat.
• In a Snack Mix: Add to trail mix or nut mixes for a sweet and spicy element.
• With Drinks: Pair with mocktails, or a refreshing soda.
• On Salad: Sprinkle over a green salad for added crunch and flavor.
• For Gift-Giving: Package in a jar with a ribbon for a homemade gift.
• For Movie Nights: Enjoy alongside popcorn for a delicious movie snack combination.
• As a Topping: Sprinkle over roasted vegetables or a grain bowl for extra flavor.
• With Cheese Platter: Pair with cheese and fruit for a savory snack board.
• As a Side Dish: Serve alongside your favorite dip or sandwich.

Additional Tips

• Use Fresh Nuts: Always choose fresh, high-quality peanuts for the best flavor and crunch. Stale peanuts can ruin the overall taste.
• Adjust the Heat: For spicier peanuts, increase the chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne. If you prefer mild, reduce the amount of spice.
• Sweetener Substitutes: Honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar can be used instead of sugar for a more natural sweetness.
• Try Different Spices: Experiment with cinnamon, smoked paprika, or a hint of ground ginger to customize the flavor profile.
• Roast Evenly: Spread the peanuts in a single layer on a baking sheet to ensure even roasting and avoid burning.
• Add a Touch of Salt: A light sprinkle of sea salt after roasting enhances the sweet and spicy contrast.
• Cool Completely: Allow the peanuts to cool fully before storing to maintain their crunch and prevent them from sticking together.
• Mix in Other Nuts: Blend with cashews, almonds, or pecans for a diverse nut mix with the same flavor treatment.
• Store Properly: Keep the peanuts in an airtight container to preserve freshness and flavor for up to two weeks.
• Perfect for Gifting: Pack them in small jars or bags tied with a ribbon for a homemade gift that’s sure to impress.

Recipe Variations

• Maple Spicy Peanuts: Swap the honey for maple syrup for a different sweetness.
• Cinnamon Sugar Peanuts: Omit the chili powder and cayenne pepper, and instead add cinnamon and sugar for a sweet treat.
• Garlic and Herb Peanuts: Use garlic powder, rosemary, and thyme for a savory twist.
• Chili Lime Peanuts: Add a squeeze of lime juice and zest for a tangy addition.
• Peanut Butter Coated Peanuts: Coat the peanuts in peanut butter before adding the sugar and spices for a richer flavor.

Special Equipment

• Baking Sheet: For roasting the peanuts evenly.
• Parchment Paper: For easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
• Mixing Bowl: To combine the coating ingredients and peanuts.
• Spatula or Spoon: For stirring the peanuts during roasting.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use other nuts instead of peanuts?
   Yes, almonds, cashews, or pecans would work well as alternatives.
2. How long do these peanuts last?
   Store them in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
3. Can I make these in advance?
   Yes, these peanuts can be made ahead and stored in a sealed container for a convenient snack.
4. How can I adjust the sweetness?
   Increase or decrease the amount of brown sugar or honey depending on your desired sweetness.
5. Can I make these without sugar?
   You can substitute the sugar with a sugar alternative like stevia or monk fruit for a lower-sugar version.
6. Can I freeze these peanuts?
   It’s best to store them at room temperature, as freezing can affect the texture.
7. What if the peanuts aren’t crispy?
   Roast them a bit longer, but be careful not to burn them.
8. Can I use salted peanuts?
   Yes, but reduce the amount of added salt in the recipe to avoid over-salting.
9. Can I add more spices?
   Absolutely! Experiment with smoked paprika, cumin, or even curry powder for a different flavor profile.
10. Are these peanuts gluten-free?
    Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion

Sweet & Spicy Peanuts are a deliciously addictive snack that balances the warmth of spice with the rich sweetness of caramelized sugar. To make these, raw peanuts are coated in a mixture of honey or brown sugar, chili powder, cayenne pepper, and a touch of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to give them a savory depth. As the peanuts roast in the oven, the sugar caramelizes, creating a crispy, sticky coating that’s both sweet and spicy.

The combination of sweet honey or sugar and the heat from the chili and cayenne pepper makes for a flavorful and satisfying snack. You can also add a dash of smoked paprika or garlic powder for an extra layer of flavor. These peanuts are perfect for snacking on their own, adding to a trail mix, or serving as a snack at parties or gatherings. They’re quick and easy to make and are perfect for those who love bold flavors and a little heat with their snack!

I can’t wait to see how your Sweet & Spicy Peanuts turn out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!