These sweet and savory roasted party nuts with cardamom, saffron and maple syrup are simply divine and irresistible. They are so addictive, that you won’t be able to stop with a handful. Everyone just loves these nuts!
In a small sauce pan, heat the butter and maple syrup just until the butter is melted. Dont let it cook beyond that.
In a large mixing bowl, add the maple butter and whisk it together with ground cardamom, saffron water, cayenne pepper, black pepper and salt.
Add all the nuts and seeds to the bowl. Using a wooden spoon, stir together the nuts until they are coated well with the spiced maple butter.
Spread the mixed nuts in a single layer on a parchment paper lined baking sheet and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. Check at 25 minutes to make sure the nuts are not getting over roasted.
While baking, stir the nuts every 10 minutes. Once done, remove the pan and let the nuts cool completely. The nuts and the outer coating will dry and harden as they cool.
Store roasted nuts in an airtight container, in a cool, dark place at room temperature for up to 1 month.
Notes
If using brown butter or ghee, you may also try combining 1 tablespoon of that with 1 tablespoon of any neutral oil.
Saffron water: Dissolve and soak ¼ teaspoon ground saffron in 2 tablespoon hot water. Save the leftover saffron water for other recipes.
Cardamom can have an intense aroma. If its new to you, then start with 1 teaspoon and adjust it up to 2 teaspoons based on your taste.
If using fine salt, then try ¾ teaspoon salt.
Dairy Free: Use avocado oil
More Sweet: Use double the amount of maple syrup and roast at 315 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 minutes.
Pistachio pieces and pumpkin seeds result in nice clusters and did not burn at 325 degrees F. However, ovens may vary, and if burning the smaller nuts is a concern, then add them later or try baking at a lower temperature or skip them.