Nothing draws people together quite like a bowl of homemade candied cashews. Sweet, crunchy, and warmly spiced, they’re an easy and irresistible snack perfect for any gathering.
Whether for a casual afternoon visit or a larger celebration, offering a homemade treat like this adds a meaningful and personal touch to any table. These candied cashews are a delicious reminder that small acts of kindness leave a lasting impression.
We love making candied cashews around the holidays because they are such an easy and delightful treat to share with friends and family. They come together quickly with just a few pantry staples, filling the kitchen with the cozy aromas of cinnamon and nutmeg. Their sweet, toasty flavor and crunchy texture make them perfect for entertaining at parties, Bible studies, or casual get-togethers. For more snack recipes, check out these 60+ Cheap Party Finger Food Ideas. Plus, they’re far more budget-friendly than store-bought versions and stay fresh for days, making them an ideal make-ahead option during the busy holiday season.
Before You Get Started
This is a recipe that I recommend you measure all your ingredients before starting; things move quickly once you begin.
Have your parchment-lined baking sheet ready and lightly spray it to prevent sticking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
Under-whipping the egg white: Soft peaks are crucial for an even sugar coating that sticks.
Overbaking: Watch closely the last 10 minutes to prevent burning.
Uneven spreading: Crowding the baking sheet causes clumping and uneven cooking.
Ingredients You Will Need
Here’s a quick overview of the key ingredients for this recipe. For the full list of ingredients and exact measurements, be sure to check the recipe card at the bottom of this post.
- Egg: Use a large egg white, whipped to create a light, glossy coating that allows the sugar and spices to adhere evenly to the cashews.
- Cashews: Use raw, whole cashews for the best flavor and texture. Love cashews? Try these Crunchy And Sweet Cashew Brittle Recipe or Sweet & Spicy Roasted Cashews.
- Vanilla extract: Always opt for pure vanilla extract to ensure the richest, most authentic flavor.
- Maple syrup: Brings richness and a hint of earthiness. Choose real maple syrup for a natural, deep sweetness. Honey can be used as a substitute if needed, though it will slightly alter the flavor.
- Seasonings: You’ll need ground cinnamon for warm spice, kosher salt to balance the sweetness, and a touch of ground nutmeg for an extra layer of cozy flavor.
How to Make Candied Cashews
Follow these quick steps to make crisp, golden-brown candied cashews with a delicious spiced coating.
Whip Egg White & Coat Cashews
In a large bowl, whip the egg whites with a hand mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form, about 3 minutes.
Add the cashews and vanilla extract to the bowl and stir until the nuts are fully coated.
Add Seasoning & Spread
Sprinkle in the sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg. Stir again until everything is evenly distributed.
Spread the coated cashews in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake & Store
Bake for 15 minutes, then stir. Bake for an additional 15 minutes, stir again, and bake for a final 10 minutes, or until golden and fragrant.
Let cool completely on the baking sheet. Break apart if needed and store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Gina’s Recipe Tips and Variation Ideas
Recipe Tips:
- Use fresh spices. Old spices lose potency and flavor. For bold taste, replace ground spices every 6-12 months.
- Don’t rush the cooling time; it helps the candy coating harden properly.
Recipe Variations:
- Deeper Maple Flavor: Use dark or Grade B maple syrup for a more intense, molasses-like richness.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a sweet heat kick.
- Air Fryer Version: Cook at 300°F for about 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Storage: Store cooled cashews in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days.
Freezing: Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Freeze up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm briefly in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes to refresh crunchiness.
Make-Ahead: Make a day or two ahead and keep in airtight jars or bags. Perfect for gift baskets or snack boards, just like these Salted Cashew Cookie Recipe In A Jar and Candied Pecans In Less Than 15 Minutes.
Biblical Hospitality Reflection
“When we welcome others with food, we mirror God’s hospitality—always generous, always inviting.”
—Intentional Hospitality
There is something special about serving homemade candy. The time you took to make them reflects a heart willing to give in even the smallest of ways.
Let these little bites of sweetness encourage you to open your home and heart. Whether at a casual Bible study, afternoon coffee, or family celebration, may your offering be a reflection of this truth: “A generous person will be enriched, and one who gives water will himself be watered” (Proverbs 11:25, ESV).
Hostessing Tips for Snack & Fellowship Gatherings
- Hospitality as Ministry: Take some candied cashews to Bible studies or small group meetings as a gesture of care and attentiveness. You may also enjoy ‘Creating Community: Bible Verses on Hospitality’ for further encouragement.
- Fellowship Over Perfection: Don’t stress if they clump or toast a little too much. Imperfections remind us we’re all human and loved as we are.
- Prep-Ahead Tip: Make a large batch a few days in advance and store in jars or small bags ready to grab for last-minute guests or events.
Do you have a question about the recipe? Feel free to ask in the comments below. I’m here to help!
Easy Homemade Candied Cashews
Note: Be sure to read through the recipe’s post for tips and details about this recipe.
You can add any recipe from Intentional Hospitality to your shopping list to plan a full menu!
Ingredients
- 1 large egg white
- 2 ½ cups whole cashews
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Lightly spray parchment with nonstick spray if needed.
Coat the Cashews
- In a large bowl, whip the egg white with a hand mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form (about 3 minutes).1 large egg white
- Add the cashews and vanilla extract, stirring until fully coated.2 ½ cups whole cashews, 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Sprinkle in the sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg. Stir again to coat evenly.⅓ cup granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons maple syrup, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Bake and Stir
- Spread the coated cashews in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes.
- Stir the cashews and bake for another 15 minutes. Stir once more and bake for a final 10 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cool and Store
- Let the cashews cool completely on the baking sheet. Break them apart if needed and store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Notes
- Use fresh spices. Old spices lose potency and flavor. For bold taste, replace ground spices every 6-12 months.
- Don’t rush the cooling time, it helps the candy coating harden properly.
- Deeper Maple Flavor: Use dark or Grade B maple syrup for a more intense, molasses-like richness.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a sweet heat kick.
- Air Fryer Version: Cook at 300°F for about 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- Vegan Option: Use aquafaba instead of egg whites.
- Sugar-Free Version: Substitute granulated sugar with erythritol.
