Ingredients
2 cups raw cashews
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, to taste)
Steps
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roast the Cashews: Spread the raw cashews evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 8 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even browning.
Season the Cashews: In a large bowl, combine the warm cashews with olive oil and maple syrup. Toss gently to coat, being careful not to break the cashews. Add the remaining ingredients—coconut sugar, rosemary, sea salt, and cayenne pepper. Toss again to evenly coat all the nuts.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste the cashews and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more cayenne for heat or more salt to enhance flavor.
Bake Again: Return the seasoned cashews to the parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for an additional 10 minutes, stirring halfway through. Begin checking the cashews every 2 minutes after the 10-minute mark to prevent over-browning. They should be golden but not dark.
Cool Completely: Let the cashews cool completely on the baking sheet, tossing occasionally to prevent them from sticking together. They will firm up as they cool.
Store: Once cooled, store the cashews in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for several days. For best results, prepare them the day before serving.
Tips:
These roasted cashews make a great snack, gift, or appetizer for holiday gatherings.
Feel free to experiment with other spices or nuts to suit your taste.