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Ingredients
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Spiced nut mix
Method
Spiced nut mix
Preheat and prepare
Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
Mix nuts and binder
Place the 4 cups of mixed nuts in a large mixing bowl. Add the lightly beaten egg white and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Toss vigorously until the nuts are evenly coated — the egg white creates a tacky surface for the seasoning to adhere to.
Combine dry seasonings
In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 teaspoon fine sea salt, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste for heat), 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh rosemary, 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest (if using). Stir to combine.
Coat the nuts
Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the coated nuts. Toss with a spatula or wooden spoon until the nuts are evenly covered with the spice-sugar mix. If needed, use your hands to ensure even coating.
Add butter for gloss
Melt 3 tablespoons unsalted butter in a small saucepan or microwave until just melted. Drizzle the melted butter over the seasoned nuts and toss once more to distribute — this adds richness and helps the sugar caramelize.
Roast
Spread the nuts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes, stirring and rotating the sheet every 6–7 minutes to promote even browning. Watch closely during the last 5 minutes to avoid burning. The nuts are done when they are fragrant, the sugar looks slightly glossy and caramelized, and a few pieces are a deeper golden brown.
Cool and finish
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the nuts cool completely on the sheet (about 20–30 minutes). As they cool the sugar will harden and create a crisp coating. Taste and adjust seasoning: sprinkle an additional pinch of sea salt or a few more flakes of chopped rosemary if desired.
Store or serve
Once fully cooled, transfer the spiced nuts to an airtight container. They keep well at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Serve at room temperature as a To Start bar snack or alongside cocktails. For best texture, bring to room temperature before serving if refrigerated.