Name: Cinnamon-Spiced Roasted Almonds
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 2
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ¼ tsp sea salt; ½ tsp vanilla extract; 1 tbsp light brown sugar; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 2 cups raw, unsalted almonds; 2 tbsp pure maple syrup; Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

Savor the warm, crunchy delight of Cinnamon-Spiced Roasted Almonds, a healthy, sweet-spicy snack. Easy to prepare, nutrient-rich, and perfect for any occasion, these almonds are a guilt-free treat that satisfies cravings in minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Cinnamon-Spiced Roasted Almonds are a wholesome, flavorful snack that’s quick to make and hard to resist. The blend of cinnamon, maple syrup, and a hint of salt creates a perfect balance of sweet and savory. Ideal for vegans, gluten-free diets, or anyone craving a healthy, protein-packed bite, they’re great for parties, desk snacking, or cozy nights. The irresistible aroma and crunch make them a crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Use fresh, raw almonds for best flavor.
Adjust maple syrup for desired sweetness.
Toss well for even spice coating.
Check almonds early to avoid burning.
Cool completely for maximum crunch.
Line baking sheet with parchment for easy cleanup.
Add cayenne for a spicy twist.

Yield: 2 cups

Cinnamon-Spiced Roasted Almonds

Crunchy Cinnamon-Spiced Roasted Almonds, sweet and savory, make a healthy, easy snack for any occasion.

Prep Time 5 minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes

Additional Time 10 minutes

Total Time 30 minutes

Ingredients

¼ tsp sea salt
½ tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp light brown sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
2 cups raw, unsalted almonds
2 tbsp pure maple syrup
Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine maple syrup and vanilla extract, stirring until smooth and well-blended.
Add Dry Ingredients: Add cinnamon, brown sugar, salt, and optional cayenne to the bowl, mixing into a thick paste.
Coat Almonds: Add raw almonds to the bowl and toss thoroughly to ensure every nut is evenly coated.
Spread Evenly: Spread the coated almonds in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet for even roasting.
Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 15 minutes, stirring halfway to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
Check for Doneness: Almonds should be fragrant and lightly golden; watch closely to avoid over-browning.
Cool Completely: Remove from oven and let almonds cool fully on the baking sheet for maximum crunch.
Break Apart: Gently break apart any clumps once cooled, ensuring individual almonds for easy snacking.
Serve or Store: Enjoy immediately as a snack or store in an airtight container for later.

Notes

Ensure almonds are raw and unsalted for best results.
Stir halfway through baking to prevent burning.
Cool completely before storing to maintain crispiness.
Adjust cayenne to taste for a spicier kick.

Ingredients Notes

Raw Almonds (2 cups): Whole, unsalted, raw almonds provide crunch, healthy fats, and protein.
Maple Syrup (2 tbsp): Natural sweetener, vegan-friendly, helps spices adhere.
Ground Cinnamon (1 tsp): Warm, aromatic spice with antioxidants; use fresh for best flavor.
Brown Sugar (1 tbsp): Adds subtle caramel sweetness; light brown works best.
Salt (1/4 tsp): Sea salt enhances sweet-salty balance.
Vanilla Extract (1/2 tsp): Deepens flavor with a sweet, aromatic note.
Cayenne Pepper (pinch, optional): Adds subtle heat for a bold twist.

Variations and Substitutions

Swap maple syrup for honey or agave for different sweetness; honey adds floral notes, agave is neutral. Replace cinnamon with nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist. Use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for a lower-glycemic option. Add smoked paprika or chili powder instead of cayenne for varied heat. For nut-free diets, try roasted chickpeas with the same coating.