Peppermint Cocoa Roasted Nuts
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Enjoy the festive flavor of Peppermint Cocoa Roasted Nuts, a delightful snack that combines the richness of cocoa with a refreshing peppermint twist.
These Peppermint Cocoa Roasted Nuts are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet treat for yourself. The combination of nutty flavors with a hint of peppermint creates a memorable snack that everyone will love!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- A delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors
- The perfect crunchy texture that satisfies your cravings
- Great for gifting or serving at holiday parties
A Festive Snack for Every Occasion
Peppermint Cocoa Roasted Nuts make for a perfect festive snack that brings joy to any gathering. Whether you're hosting a holiday party or simply enjoying a cozy night in, these nuts will add a touch of cheer to your snack table. Their unique combination of chocolatey goodness and refreshing peppermint flavor is sure to impress your guests and leave them asking for the recipe.
Not only are these nuts a delightful treat during the holiday season, but they can also be enjoyed year-round. Their versatility makes them a great snack for movie nights, picnics, or even as a crunchy topping for desserts. With the right balance of sweetness and crunch, they can easily become a staple in your snack repertoire.
Health Benefits of Nuts
In addition to being delicious, mixed nuts offer a variety of health benefits. They are packed with essential nutrients, including healthy fats, protein, and fiber, making them an excellent choice for a nutritious snack. Incorporating nuts into your diet can help improve heart health, support weight management, and provide sustained energy throughout the day.
By roasting the nuts with cocoa and peppermint, you're not only enhancing their flavor but also creating a satisfying snack that can curb your cravings. Just be mindful of portion sizes, as nuts are calorie-dense. Enjoying them in moderation can help you reap their health benefits while indulging in this delightful treat.
Gifting and Presentation Ideas
If you're looking for a thoughtful gift during the holiday season, Peppermint Cocoa Roasted Nuts are an excellent choice. You can package them in decorative jars or festive bags, making them perfect for sharing with friends, family, or coworkers. Adding a personalized label or a handwritten note can give your gift a special touch, letting recipients know you put thought and care into it.
Presentation is key when it comes to serving these nuts at gatherings. Consider placing them in a charming bowl or on a festive platter. You can even create a snack station with various sweet and savory treats, allowing guests to mix and match their favorites. This will not only elevate the experience but also encourage conversations and festive cheer among your guests.
Ingredients
Gather all the ingredients before you start roasting!
Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans)
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (optional for dusting)
Make sure to measure everything accurately for the best results.
Instructions
Preheat your oven before you begin!
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the mixed nuts, cocoa powder, maple syrup, peppermint extract, and sea salt. Stir until the nuts are well-coated.
Spread on Baking Sheet
Spread the coated nuts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Roast the Nuts
Roast the nuts in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are golden and fragrant.
Cool and Dust
Allow the nuts to cool for a few minutes, then dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Let the nuts cool completely before serving or storing.
Storage Tips
To keep your Peppermint Cocoa Roasted Nuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain their crunchiness for up to two weeks. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them, which can keep them fresh for up to a month. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving to enjoy their best texture.
If you're making a large batch for a party or as gifts, you can also freeze the nuts. Just place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can last for several months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature. This makes it easy to prepare ahead of time and have a delicious snack on hand whenever you need it.
Variations and Customizations
Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences! You can experiment with different types of nuts, such as walnuts or macadamia nuts, to create your own unique blend. Additionally, you can adjust the amount of cocoa powder or maple syrup to enhance the sweetness or richness according to your liking.
If you're a fan of spice, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon for an extra kick. For a more indulgent treat, you can drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled nuts before dusting with powdered sugar. These variations will keep your Peppermint Cocoa Roasted Nuts exciting and allow you to enjoy them in new ways.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use different types of nuts?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite nuts or a mix of whatever you have on hand.
→ How should I store the roasted nuts?
Store the roasted nuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
→ Can I make these nuts in advance?
Yes, these nuts can be made a few days ahead of time. Just store them properly.
→ Is the powdered sugar necessary?
The powdered sugar is optional and can be omitted if you prefer a less sweet snack.
Peppermint Cocoa Roasted Nuts
Enjoy the festive flavor of Peppermint Cocoa Roasted Nuts, a delightful snack that combines the richness of cocoa with a refreshing peppermint twist.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans)
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (optional for dusting)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, combine the mixed nuts, cocoa powder, maple syrup, peppermint extract, and sea salt. Stir until the nuts are well-coated.
Spread the coated nuts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Roast the nuts in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are golden and fragrant.
Allow the nuts to cool for a few minutes, then dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 100mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 7g