Creole Spiced Mixed Nuts (Print View)

Crunchy nuts tossed in a bold Creole spice blend featuring smoked paprika, cayenne, garlic, and herbs. Perfect for gatherings or afternoon treats.

# What You'll Need:

→ Nuts

01 - 2 cups raw mixed nuts (pecans, almonds, cashews, walnuts)

→ Spice Blend

02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
04 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
05 - 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
06 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
07 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
08 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
09 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
10 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
11 - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
12 - 1/2 teaspoon brown sugar

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 325°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Combine olive oil, melted butter, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, black pepper, and brown sugar in a large bowl. Stir until well blended.
03 - Add mixed nuts to the bowl and toss thoroughly until evenly coated with the spice mixture.
04 - Spread the nuts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
05 - Bake for 18–20 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until nuts are toasted and fragrant.
06 - Remove from oven and let cool completely on the baking sheet. Nuts will become crunchier as they cool. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • The spice blend hits every flavor note—smoky, slightly sweet, and with this gentle heat that builds rather than overwhelms
  • They're impossibly easy to throw together but taste like something you'd buy at a gourmet shop
  • Perfect for everything from cocktail hour to unexpected guests to midnight snacking
02 -
  • The nuts continue crisping as they cool, so don't be alarmed if they seem slightly soft immediately after baking
  • Stirring halfway through prevents scorching and ensures every nut gets evenly kissed by the heat
  • These taste even better the next day, so feel free to make them a day ahead of your gathering
03 -
  • Room temperature nuts absorb the spice coating more evenly than cold ones straight from the fridge
  • Use your hands to toss the nuts with the spice mixture—your fingers can feel and distribute the coating better than any spoon