Ina Garten’s Smoky Chipotle Nuts Recipe for Snack Lovers

Chipotle nuts spark an unexpected culinary adventure that transforms ordinary snacking into a thrilling sensory experience.

Complex flavors dance across your palate with bold southwestern-inspired notes.

The combination of smoky, sweet, and spicy elements creates an irresistible blend that elevates traditional nut mixes.

Carefully selected ingredients interplay to deliver a sophisticated crunch that surprises and delights.

Each handful promises a vibrant burst of intense seasonings balanced by natural nut richness.

Weekend gatherings or quiet moments deserve something extraordinary that awakens taste buds and sparks conversation: these chipotle nuts deliver excitement in every bite.

Why You’ll Munch Nonstop on Ina’s Chipotle Nuts

• Burst with Flavor Fusion: These nuts pack a knockout punch with sweet maple syrup, zesty orange juice, and smoky chipotle powder creating an incredible taste explosion that dances across your palate.
• Super Simple Gourmet Method: Ina Garten's recipe transforms basic nuts into a restaurant-worthy snack using just one sheet pan and minimal prep, making fancy cooking accessible for home chefs with any skill level.
• Versatile Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Perfect for entertaining, gifting, or enjoying as a quick snack, these glazed nuts work wonderfully at cocktail parties, holiday gatherings, or casual weekend get-togethers with their irresistible blend of savory and sweet elements.
• Healthy Protein-Packed Snacking: Loaded with protein-rich nuts like cashews, walnuts, and almonds, this recipe offers a nutritious alternative to processed snacks while delivering complex, sophisticated flavor profiles that keep you satisfied and energized.

Ingredients That Bring the Heat and Crunch

• Cashews, Walnuts, Pecans, Almonds: A hearty mix of nuts with rich, buttery textures that provide crunch and depth of flavor, best when fresh and whole.

• Maple Syrup, Brown Sugar: Natural sweeteners that caramelize and create a glossy, golden coating on the nuts.
• Orange Juice: Adds a bright, citrusy note that balances the richness of the nuts.
• Vegetable Oil: Helps distribute seasonings evenly and promotes even roasting.

• Chipotle Powder: Adds smoky, spicy heat that gives a complex flavor profile to the nuts.
• Rosemary: Fresh herb that provides an earthy, piney aroma and complements the nuts' richness.
• Salt: Enhances overall flavor and balances the sweetness and spice.

Switch Up the Nuts and Spices—Ina-Style

• Spicy Honey Nuts: Replace maple syrup with local honey and add a dash of cayenne pepper for extra heat. Swap chipotle powder with smoked paprika to create a different flavor profile.
• Mediterranean Herb Nuts: Substitute rosemary with fresh thyme and oregano. Add crumbled feta cheese after roasting for a tangy Mediterranean twist. Include lemon zest for brightness.
• Sweet and Smoky Bacon Nuts: Sprinkle crispy bacon bits over the nuts after roasting. Mix in a touch of bourbon for depth. Use brown sugar and a hint of molasses to enhance the smoky sweetness.
• Asian-Inspired Soy Nuts: Replace orange juice with rice vinegar and soy sauce. Add sesame oil and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds. Include a small amount of ginger and green onions for an Asian-inspired flavor combination.

The Crunchy Close: Spiced Nut Edition

Ina Garten’s Chipotle Nuts elevate snacking from mundane to extraordinary, blending sweet, spicy, and herbal notes into one irresistible handful.

Bold maple syrup intertwines with smoky chipotle powder, creating a complex flavor profile that dances across palates.

Rosemary’s earthy undertones complement the nutty medley, transforming simple ingredients into a gourmet experience.

Roasted to golden perfection, these nuts offer a sophisticated alternative to standard party fare.

Guests will marvel at the intricate balance of heat, sweetness, and aromatic herbs.

Rolling out this recipe guarantees conversations, compliments, and requests for seconds – so grab those ingredients, share this culinary gem with friends, and watch social media likes cascade like these delectable nuts.

Easy Steps to Spicy, Smoky Perfection

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Warm up your oven to a toasty 350°F, getting ready for some nutty magic.

Step 2: Oil the Baking Sheet

Generously coat a sheet pan with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Combine Nuts and Flavors

• Cashews
• Walnuts
• Pecans
• Almonds
• Vegetable oil
• Maple syrup
• Brown sugar
• Orange juice
• Chipotle powder

Toss everything together until the nuts are beautifully coated.

Step 4: Season the Mixture

• Rosemary
• Salt

Gently mix to distribute the seasonings evenly.

Step 5: Spread and Roast

Arrange the nuts in a single layer across the sheet pan. Slide into the oven and roast for 25 minutes, giving the nuts a stir twice during cooking. Look for a golden, glazed appearance.

Step 6: Final Seasoning

• Additional salt
• Remaining rosemary

Toss the nuts to distribute the fresh seasonings.

Step 7: Cool and Store

Let the nuts cool completely at room temperature. Stir occasionally to prevent clumping. Once cooled, transfer to airtight containers.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Serve warm for an extra-special treat, or enjoy at room temperature as a delightful snack.

Tips to Keep Your Nuts Bold and Balanced

• Protect Your Pan: Line the baking sheet with parchment paper for hassle-free cleanup and effortless nut removal.
• Spice Smart: Start with a small amount of chipotle powder and gradually increase to find your perfect heat level without overwhelming the flavor.
• Roast Evenly: Spread nuts in a single layer to guarantee uniform cooking and that satisfying crunch every time.
• Gentle Stirring: Use a light touch when mixing nuts during roasting to prevent burning and ensure a beautiful, consistent glaze.
• Cooling Wisdom: Allow nuts to cool completely before storing to lock in their crisp texture and vibrant flavors.

Best Ways to Store Spiced Nuts for Snacking

• Airtight Glass Jar Method: Transfer cooled chipotle nuts into clean, wide-mouth mason jars with tight-sealing lids. Seal completely to lock in crispness and prevent moisture from softening the nuts' delightful crunch.
• Vacuum Sealing Method: Use a vacuum sealer to remove excess air from specialized storage bags. Pack nuts tightly, creating an ultra-protective barrier against humidity and potential flavor degradation.
• Freezer Storage Method: Divide nuts into small portion-controlled batches using freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-lock bags. Label each container with the date and contents, ensuring maximum freshness for up to 3 months without compromising their zesty chipotle coating.

Ina Garten Chipotle Nuts Recipe

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4.9 from 8 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Ina Garten’s Chipotle Nuts blend smoky, spicy flavors with a perfect crunch. Sophisticated snacking meets Mexican-inspired zest, creating an irresistible appetizer that elevates any gathering with its bold and addictive taste.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Nuts:

• 3 cups (14 ounces) whole roasted unsalted cashews
• 2 cups (7 ounces) whole walnut halves
• 2 cups (7 ounces) whole pecan halves
• ½ cup (3 ounces) whole almonds

Sweeteners and Liquid:

• ⅓ cup pure maple syrup
• ¼ cup light brown sugar, lightly packed
• 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice

Seasonings and Oils:

• 2 teaspoons ground chipotle powder
• 4 tablespoons minced fresh rosemary leaves, divided
• Kosher salt
• Vegetable oil

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Instructions

1. Warm the oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the middle for even heat distribution.
2. Thoroughly coat a large rimmed baking sheet with vegetable oil, creating a non-stick surface for the nuts.
3. Combine cashews, walnuts, pecans, and almonds directly on the prepared baking sheet, creating a mixed nut base.
4. Drizzle the nuts with vegetable oil, ensuring each nut receives a light, even coating.
5. Pour maple syrup and sprinkle brown sugar over the nuts, then add orange juice and chipotle powder for a complex flavor profile.
6. Gently toss the nuts using a spatula, making sure every nut is evenly coated with the sweet and spicy mixture.
7. Sprinkle fresh rosemary and salt over the nuts, continuing to mix thoroughly to distribute the seasonings.
8. Spread the nuts in a single, uniform layer across the baking sheet to promote even roasting.
9. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 25 minutes, stirring twice during cooking to prevent burning and ensure consistent golden-brown coloration.
10. Remove the nuts from the oven when they appear glazed and have a rich, toasted appearance.
11. Immediately sprinkle additional salt and remaining rosemary over the hot nuts, tossing gently to incorporate.
12. Allow the nuts to cool at room temperature, stirring periodically to prevent clumping and maintain their crisp texture.
13. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, ensuring a balanced blend of sweet, spicy, and herbal notes.
14. Serve warm for maximum flavor or cool completely and store in airtight containers at room temperature for up to two weeks.

Notes

• Line baking sheet with parchment for mess-free roasting and simple cleanup.
• Gentle stirring prevents burning while creating an even, glossy coating on nuts.
• Spread nuts in a single layer to guarantee perfectly crisp, uniformly toasted results.
• Customize heat levels by gradually adding chipotle powder for personalized spiciness.
• Complete cooling preserves crackly texture and locks in delicious seasoned flavors.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Snacks, Appetizer
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 287
• Sugar: 8 g
• Sodium: 50 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg