I can still remember the first time I tried my friend’s famous Mexican Hot Cocoa Spiced Nuts. It was during our annual holiday cookie exchange, and the moment I popped one of those irresistible bites into my mouth, I was hooked. The rich, chocolatey flavor mingled with the warmth of cinnamon and a subtle kick of heat from the cayenne pepper – it was the perfect balance of sweet and spicy that I just couldn’t get enough of.
As I savored each crunchy, coated nut, I couldn’t help but wonder how she had managed to create such a magical snack. Little did I know, the secret was in the simplicity of the recipe and the care she put into preparing it. From that day on, I knew I had to get my hands on the recipe and make it my own.
Why This Mexican Hot Cocoa Spiced Nuts Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Mexican Hot Cocoa Spiced Nuts
What makes this Mexican Hot Cocoa Spiced Nuts recipe so special is the way the flavors come together in perfect harmony. The key is in the careful balance of the ingredients, which work together to create a truly unforgettable snack. The unsweetened cocoa powder provides a rich, chocolatey base, while the brown sugar adds a subtle sweetness that perfectly complements the warmth of the cinnamon.
But the real star of the show is the addition of cayenne pepper, which gives these nuts a delightful kick of heat that lingers on your tongue, leaving you craving more. The coconut oil helps to bind all the flavors together, creating a beautifully coated and irresistibly crunchy nut blend that you just can’t stop eating.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these Mexican Hot Cocoa Spiced Nuts, you’ll need:
- 2 cups mixed nuts (such as almonds, cashews, and pecans): The combination of different nuts adds a wonderful variety of textures and flavors to the mix.
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder: This provides the rich, chocolatey foundation for the recipe.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: This sweetener balances out the bitterness of the cocoa powder and complements the warming spices.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The cinnamon adds a cozy, comforting element that ties all the flavors together.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper: This is the secret ingredient that gives the nuts their signature kick of heat.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: A pinch of salt enhances the other flavors and helps to balance the overall taste.
- 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil: The coconut oil acts as a binder, ensuring that the spices and seasonings adhere perfectly to the nuts.
Step-by-Step Mexican Hot Cocoa Spiced Nuts Instructions
Preparing Your Mexican Hot Cocoa Spiced Nuts
Prepping these Mexican Hot Cocoa Spiced Nuts is a breeze, taking only 5 minutes of your time. You’ll need a baking sheet and a mixing bowl to get started. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and get ready to create a delightful snack that’s sure to impress.
1- Begin by combining the 2 cups of mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, and pecans) in a mixing bowl. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt until well-blended.
2- Pour the melted 1 tablespoon of coconut oil over the nuts and toss to coat them evenly. Next, sprinkle the cocoa powder mixture over the nuts and stir until each nut is fully coated.
3- Spread the coated nuts out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Place the sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes, keeping a close eye on them to prevent burning.
4- After 10 minutes, the nuts should be fragrant, the cocoa powder should be set, and the nuts should have a beautiful, shiny glaze. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the nuts cool for a few minutes.
5- Once cooled, the Mexican Hot Cocoa Spiced Nuts will have a delightfully crunchy texture. Transfer them to a serving bowl or an airtight container for storage.
6- Serve these delectable Mexican Hot Cocoa Spiced Nuts as a snack, a topping for ice cream, or even as a garnish for hot chocolate. Enjoy the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and chocolatey goodness in every bite!
Pro Tips for Success
- For an extra crunch, toast the nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes before coating them.
- Experiment with different nut combinations to find your favorite blend. Cashews, pecans, and almonds work great, but you can also try walnuts, hazelnuts, or peanuts.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your desired level of heat. Start with 1/4 teaspoon and add more if you want a bolder kick.
- Store the cooled Mexican Hot Cocoa Spiced Nuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. They also freeze well for longer storage.
Serving and Storing Your Mexican Hot Cocoa Spiced Nuts
Perfect Pairings for Mexican Hot Cocoa Spiced Nuts
This recipe for Mexican Hot Cocoa Spiced Nuts makes 6 servings, so it’s the perfect amount to enjoy on its own as a snack or to share with friends and family. The rich, chocolatey flavor and crunchy texture pair beautifully with a steaming mug of hot chocolate or a warm cup of coffee. You can also sprinkle the nuts over ice cream or frozen yogurt for a delightful dessert topping.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
The great thing about these Mexican Hot Cocoa Spiced Nuts is that they are easy to make ahead and store for future enjoyment. Once the nuts have cooled completely, transfer them to an airtight container and store at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
For longer-term storage, you can freeze the nuts in a sealed freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply spread the frozen nuts on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes, or until they’re heated through and crispy once again.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Mexican Hot Cocoa Spiced Nuts
Creative Mexican Hot Cocoa Spiced Nuts Variations
While the classic Mexican Hot Cocoa Spiced Nuts recipe is already a winner, there are plenty of ways to put a unique spin on it:
- Swap in different nut varieties, like pistachios, macadamia nuts, or peanuts, for a new flavor profile.
- Add a touch of orange zest or a splash of orange juice for a citrusy twist.
- Sprinkle in a pinch of chipotle powder or smoked paprika for an extra smoky kick.
- Experiment with different spice blends, like adding a dash of nutmeg or a touch of ginger.
- For a festive touch, fold in some crushed candy canes or mini chocolate chips.
Making Mexican Hot Cocoa Spiced Nuts Diet-Friendly
To make these Mexican Hot Cocoa Spiced Nuts suitable for various dietary needs, here are some easy substitutions:
- For a gluten-free version, simply use certified gluten-free nuts and confirm that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
- To make them vegan, replace the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar, and use a plant-based oil like avocado or olive oil instead of the coconut oil.
- For a low-carb or keto-friendly option, swap the brown sugar for a low-carb sweetener like erythritol or stevia.
No matter which variations or adaptations you choose, the key is to have fun and experiment with different flavor combinations to find your perfect Mexican Hot Cocoa Spiced Nuts recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of nut instead of the mixed nuts called for in the recipe?
A: Absolutely! You can substitute any type of nut you prefer, such as walnuts, pecans, or peanuts. Just make sure to use 2 cups of the nut of your choice.
Q: How long do these Mexican Hot Cocoa Spiced Nuts take to make?
A: The total time to make this recipe is 15 minutes, with 5 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cook time.
Q: Can I make these nuts ahead of time?
A: Yes, the Mexican Hot Cocoa Spiced Nuts can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. They also freeze well for longer storage, up to 3 months.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This recipe for Mexican Hot Cocoa Spiced Nuts yields 6 servings.
Q: What if the nuts seem to be burning or getting too dark in the oven?
A: If the nuts are browning too quickly, you can reduce the oven temperature to 300°F (150°C) and continue baking, checking them every 2-3 minutes to prevent burning.
Mexican Hot Cocoa Spiced Nuts
- Total Time: 15
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Indulge in the rich, chocolatey goodness of Mexican Hot Cocoa Spiced Nuts – a quick and easy snack that’s perfect for the holidays. These nuts are coated in a delectable blend of cocoa powder, cinnamon, and other warming spices, creating a mouthwatering treat that will delight your taste buds.
Ingredients
– 2 cups mixed nuts (such as almonds, cashews, and pecans)
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the mixed nuts, cocoa powder, brown sugar, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, and salt. Drizzle the melted coconut oil over the top and toss to coat the nuts evenly.
3. Spread the coated nuts in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 5 minutes, then stir the nuts and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the nuts are fragrant and slightly crispy.
5. Allow the nuts to cool completely before serving.
Notes
– For a sweeter version, add 1-2 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup to the nut mixture.
– Store the cooled nuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Prep Time: 5
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Bites & Finger Foods
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Conclusion
These Mexican Hot Cocoa Spiced Nuts have quickly become a household favorite in my home, and I’m certain they’ll become a go-to snack for you and your loved ones too. The perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and chocolatey flavors, combined with the irresistible crunchy texture, makes this recipe an absolute must-try.
Whether you’re looking for a delightful treat to enjoy on your own, a tasty snack to share with friends, or a unique topping for your favorite desserts, these Mexican Hot Cocoa Spiced Nuts are sure to impress. So why not give this recipe a try? I guarantee you’ll be hooked after just one bite. Let me know what you think in the comments below, and don’t forget to share your creation with your friends and family!
