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When it comes to holiday entertaining, nothing impresses guests quite like homemade herb-roasted nuts. This simple yet sophisticated recipe transforms basic ingredients into an irresistible Christmas treat that works perfectly for cocktail hour, holiday parties, or as a thoughtful edible gift. The combination of fresh rosemary and thyme with melted butter creates an aromatic coating that will have your home smelling like a gourmet kitchen, and your guests coming back for handful after handful of these golden, toasty gems.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Herb Roasted Nuts Recipe
Herb-roasted nuts are a Christmas dinner staple that brings elegance to any holiday gathering. Unlike store-bought varieties, homemade roasted nuts allow you to control the exact flavor profile and quality of ingredients. This recipe features five different nuts plus pumpkin seeds, creating a sophisticated mix with varied textures and nutritional benefits. The buttery herb coating delivers a savory-sweet flavor that’s perfectly balanced not too salty, not too sweet, just right for holiday entertaining.
These nuts are also incredibly versatile. Serve them as a pre-dinner appetizer with wine or cocktails, package them in pretty jars as Christmas food gifts, or enjoy them as a healthy snack throughout the holiday season. They’re naturally gluten-free and make an excellent addition to any holiday menu.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the best results, gather all your ingredients before starting. Here’s what makes this recipe shine:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Raw, unsalted peanuts | 2 cups |
| Raw, unsalted cashews | 2 cups |
| Raw, unsalted almonds | 2 cups |
| Raw, unsalted walnuts | 1 cup |
| Raw, unsalted pumpkin seeds | 1 cup |
| Butter, melted | 6 tablespoons |
| Fresh rosemary, chopped | 2 tablespoons |
| Fresh thyme, chopped | 3 tablespoons |
| Seasoned salt | 2½ teaspoons |
| Brown sugar | ¼ cup |
When shopping, look for raw, unsalted nuts to ensure you have complete control over seasoning. Fresh herbs are essential dried varieties simply won’t deliver the same aromatic quality and festive flavor that makes this recipe special.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create restaurant-quality holiday treats in your own kitchen:
- Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. This moderate temperature ensures the nuts toast slowly and evenly without burning, which is crucial for achieving that perfect golden-brown color.
- Combine all nuts in a large mixing bowl. Use your baking sheets to ensure even roasting space. Mix together all five varieties the peanuts, cashews, almonds, walnuts, and pumpkin seeds until evenly distributed.
- Prepare the herb mixture by whisking together melted butter, fresh rosemary, fresh thyme, seasoned salt, and brown sugar in a small bowl. The combination of these fresh herbs creates the signature aromatic coating that makes this recipe special for holiday entertaining.
- Coat the nuts evenly by pouring the herb butter mixture over your nut combination. Using a mixing bowl, toss thoroughly until every nut is generously coated with the buttery herb blend. This step is crucial take your time to ensure even distribution.
- Spread on baking sheet in a single, even layer. Use your large baking sheet and consider lining it with parchment paper for easier cleanup during this busy holiday season.
- Roast for 40-50 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes. This frequent stirring prevents burning and ensures even toasting. You’ll know they’re done when the nuts are perfectly golden brown and fragrant resist the temptation to pull them out early, as the full roasting time develops the complex flavors.
- Cool completely before storing. Allow the nuts to rest on the baking sheet for at least 15-20 minutes. This cooling period is essential the nuts will crisp up as they cool, creating that satisfying crunch you’re after.
- Store properly in an airtight container or storage bag. These nuts will keep for up to two weeks, though they rarely last that long during the Christmas season.
Pro Tips for Perfect Herb-Roasted Nuts
Don’t Skip the Stirring: Set a timer and stir every 10 minutes without fail. This prevents burning and ensures even toasting of all the different nut varieties.
Fresh Herbs Make All the Difference: Never substitute dried herbs in this recipe. Fresh rosemary and thyme deliver the aromatic, festive quality that makes these holiday food ideas stand out from basic roasted nuts.
Control Your Temperature: If your oven runs hot, watch carefully after the 35-minute mark. Every oven is different, and burning even one batch teaches you to stay vigilant.
Cool Completely Before Storing: Moisture is the enemy of crunchiness. Let those nuts cool completely before sealing them away, or they’ll become soft and chewy.
Make It Ahead: Prepare these nuts up to three days in advance, making them perfect for Christmas cooking when you’re juggling multiple dishes.
Equipment You’ll Want to Have
To make this recipe effortlessly, consider having these kitchen essentials on hand:
- Baking sheets
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Chef’s knives (for chopping fresh herbs)
- Large oven
Serving Suggestions for Holiday Entertaining
These Christmas sweets work beautifully in multiple settings. Serve them in small bowls during cocktail hour before dinner. Package them in attractive jars with ribbon for Christmas dinner ideas favors. Layer them in a beautiful bowl on your holiday dessert table alongside other Christmas dessert ideas. They’re also wonderful paired with cheese and crackers for a sophisticated appetizer spread.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use roasted nuts instead of raw?
We don’t recommend it. Starting with raw nuts gives you better control over the final texture and flavor. Roasted nuts may burn before the herbs fully infuse the coating.
What’s the best way to gift these nuts?
Layer them in mason jars, tie with festive ribbon, and attach a handwritten label. These make exceptional Christmas food ideas for last-minute gift-giving. You can also use decorative boxes or tins from craft stores.
How long do these keep?
Stored in an airtight container, herb-roasted nuts stay fresh for up to two weeks. Keep them cool and dry for best results.
Can I make this recipe for Christmas meals ahead of time?
Absolutely! Make them up to three days in advance. They actually taste better after the flavors have settled and melded together overnight.
What if my nuts taste burnt?
Lower your oven temperature by 25 degrees for the next batch. Ovens vary significantly, and adjustments may be necessary for perfect results.
Are these gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for Christmas dinner recipes that accommodate dietary restrictions.
Can I double the recipe?
Definitely! Simply double all ingredients and use two baking sheets. Stir both pans together every 10 minutes to ensure even roasting.
Easy Herb-Roasted Nuts Recipe: The Ultimate Holiday Treat
Homemade herb-roasted nuts are the perfect holiday treat. This simple yet sophisticated recipe transforms basic ingredients into an irresistible Christmas snack featuring five varieties of nuts, fresh rosemary, thyme, and a hint of brown sugar. Golden, toasty, and absolutely addictive perfect for entertaining, gift-giving, or satisfying festive cravings. These buttery mixed nuts deliver a savory-sweet flavor that’s perfectly balanced and elegant.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 8 cups
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
2 cups raw, unsalted peanuts
2 cups raw, unsalted cashews
2 cups raw, unsalted almonds
1 cup raw, unsalted walnuts
1 cup raw, unsalted pumpkin seeds
6 tablespoons butter, melted
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
3 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
2 1/2 teaspoons seasoned salt
1/4 cup brown sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325 degrees.
- In a large bowl, combine all the different nuts.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, rosemary, thyme, seasoned salt and brown sugar.
- Pour this mixture over the nuts and toss until evenly combined and coated.
- Evenly arrange the nuts on a large baking sheet.
- Roast the nuts for 40-50 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, until the nuts are perfectly golden brown and toasted, not burned.
- Allow the nuts to cool completely before storing in an air-tight container or storage bag.
- Enjoy!
Notes
Fresh herbs are essential dried varieties won’t deliver the same aromatic quality. Don’t skip the stirring set a timer and stir every 10 minutes. Allow nuts to cool completely before storing to maintain crunchiness. Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks. Make ahead up to three days in advance for holiday entertaining.
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