There’s something magical about New York City during the holiday season. The bustling energy of Central Park makes it feel like you’re walking through a movie scene. Recently, I found myself meandering through the park on a crisp afternoon when a sweet, spiced aroma stopped me in my tracks. It was coming from a little stand tucked away with soft pretzels, hot dogs, and warm spiced nuts.

I simply could not resist. I bought a small bag filled with freshly roasted, warm nuts—sweet, crunchy, and perfectly spiced. Each bite was cozy and indulgent. It was simple, yet perfect. After leaving New York, I couldn’t stop thinking about those nuts, so I decided to recreate the magic for an event back home in LA. And let me tell you… you're in for a treat if you decide to give this recipe a spin.

These spiced and sweet warm nuts are everything. Whether you’re looking for a cozy snack for a holiday gathering, an edible gift for friends and family, or just a way to treat yourself, this recipe is a winner. It’s simple to make, endlessly customizable, and fills your kitchen with the same intoxicating scent that pulled me in that day in Central Park.

I hope this recipe brings that same warmth into your home this season. Serve them warm, share them with friends, and don’t forget to treat yourself to a handful (or two… or three)!

Spiced & Sweet Warm Nuts Recipe

Emily with tray of spiced & sweet warm nuts

Ingredients:

1 cup almonds
1 cup cashews
1 cup walnuts
2 cups pecans
2/3 cup pure maple syrup
5 tablespoons brown sugar
A generous dash of cinnamon (about 1 teaspoon)
A heavy dash of nutmeg (about 1/2 teaspoon)
A pinch of salt

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the almonds, cashews, walnuts, and pecans. Add in the maple syrup, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together until the nuts are fully coated in that sticky, spiced goodness.
Spread the nut mixture evenly onto your prepared baking sheet. Make sure they’re in a single layer so they roast evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through to prevent burning and ensure even caramelization.
When the nuts come out of the oven, they’ll still be a little soft and sticky, but don’t worry—they’ll firm up as they cool. Let them sit for about 5-10 minutes before serving. I recommend sneaking a warm handful because they are perfection right out of the oven!
Serve these warm nuts in bowls for holiday parties, or package them in cute jars tied with ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift.

Why These Nuts Are Perfect for Any Occasion

These sweet and spiced nuts are versatile enough to suit just about any moment:

Holiday Gatherings: Set them out as a snack or appetizer—they’re guaranteed to disappear fast!
Gifting: Homemade gifts are always a hit. These nuts look adorable in mason jars or festive tins, and they’re easy to make in big batches.
Snacking: Pair them with a cup of coffee, tea, or mulled cider for the ultimate cozy treat.
Salad Toppers: If you have leftovers (which is unlikely), they add a sweet crunch to salads.