Candied Cashews are sweet, crunchy, and totally addictive. (I couldn’t stop eating them!) A quick toss in honey, brown sugar, and butter turns raw cashews into a golden, caramel-y snack that’s perfect for gift-giving, movie nights, or just keeping on hand for whenever a little something sweet calls your name. They’re easy to make in the oven or air fryer, and you can tweak the sweetness or spices to your taste. For more addicting nutty treats, check out my Candied Pecans and Candied Walnuts, both just as sweet, crunchy, and easy to enjoy!
Ingredients & Substitutions
- Cashews: I used raw, unsalted cashews, but almonds, pecans, or walnuts work too. Just keep in mind that roasting times might change slightly depending on the nut.
- Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar adds caramel-y sweetness and helps the nuts crisp up in the oven or air fryer. Adjust slightly if you prefer a less sweet snack.
- Honey: Gives the nuts that classic sticky, sweet coating. Maple syrup works too for a slightly different flavor.
- Kosher Salt: Just a pinch balances the sweetness perfectly. Skip or reduce if using salted butter.
- Butter: I used unsalted butter. If all you have is salted, that’s fine; just skip or reduce the kosher salt so it doesn’t get too salty.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts?
Yes! Almonds, pecans, or walnuts all work. Keep in mind that cooking times may change slightly depending on the size and type of nut.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely. Once cooled completely, store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. They stay crunchy and sweet.
Do I have to use honey?
Nope! Maple syrup works well for a slightly different flavor. Agave or another liquid sweetener can also be used, but it may make the coating a little softer.
How do I get them extra crunchy?
After baking and cooling, you can pop them back in the oven for an additional 3–5 minutes at 350°F, keeping a close eye so they don’t burn.
Can I make candied cashews in an air fryer?
Yes! Line the basket with parchment paper, spread the nuts in a single layer (work in batches if needed), and air fry at 350°F for about 6 minutes, stirring halfway through. Let cool before serving.
Serving Ideas
- Snack straight from the jar: Keep a batch on the counter or in the pantry for a sweet, crunchy snack anytime. But, be warned! These are addictive, so you may reach for more and more and more…
- Add to salads or bowls: Sprinkle over a simple side salad, shaved Brussels sprouts salad, oatmeal, or yogurt for a little crunch and sweetness.
- Gift them: Package in a mason jar or small bag with a ribbon, perfect for neighbors, coworkers, or friends.
- Dessert topper: Chop and scatter over ice cream (have you checked out my easy no-churn ice cream recipes yet?), cupcakes, or brownies for extra texture and flavor.
- Add them to a dessert charcuterie board.
How To Store Candied Cashews
Room Temperature: Keep the cashews in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. They’ll stay crunchy and sweet, perfect for snacking anytime.
Freezer: If you want to make a bigger batch, wrap cooled cashews tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Tips: Make sure the nuts are completely cooled before storing; this keeps them from getting sticky or soft.
Candied Cashews
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups (342.5 g) raw cashews, unsalted
- ¼ cup (50 g) light brown sugar, packed
- ¼ cup (85 g) honey
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.* Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, toss cashews with brown sugar, honey, salt, and melted butter until well coated.
- Spread the coated cashews in a single layer onto the lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 15 minutes, stirring once at the halfway point (around 7 or 8 minutes).
- Remove from the oven and stir again, spreading the nuts out. Let cool for 5 minutes, then stir once more.
- Let cool completely before serving. If they’re not crunchy enough, return to the oven for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, watching carefully so they don’t burn.
Notes
- Line the basket of your air fryer with parchment paper.
- Spread the coated cashews into the lined basket. (Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to work in batches.)
- Air fry at 350°F for about 6 minutes, stirring the nuts halfway through.
- Pour the nuts onto a sheet of parchment paper to cool.
Did you make this recipe?
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What the Test Kitchen had to say about this recipe:
Autumn
These are addicting! Sweet, crunchy, and perfect for snacking.
Elizabeth
We tested this recipe a few times, and this one really nailed it! I added extra salt to mine, and they were just how I like them.
Stephanie
I really like these, and they are so easy to make.
Bella
These nuts are crunchy sweet and just the right amount of buttery goodness. I want a few (or a lot!) for my next movie night!
