Spicy Jalapeño Roasted Cashews
These Spicy Roasted Cashews are a simple but addictive snack that delivers bold flavor and satisfying crunch in every bite. Roasted until golden and fragrant, the cashews are coated in olive oil, garlic powder, chili flakes, and ground jalapeño for a perfectly balanced heat that lingers without overpowering.
What makes this recipe special is how quickly it comes together with just a handful of ingredients. The natural creaminess of the cashews contrasts beautifully with the crisp exterior created in the oven, while the spices cling to each nut for even seasoning and consistent flavor throughout.
This is a great pantry-style recipe that works for everyday snacking, game day spreads, charcuterie boards, or as a crunchy topping for salads and grain bowls. The flavor profile is spicy but adjustable, making it easy to tailor to your heat tolerance. Whether you’re prepping snacks for the week or looking for a quick homemade alternative to store-bought nuts, these spicy roasted cashews are an easy win.
INGREDIENT DETAILS
Cashews (2½ cups)
Provide a rich, buttery base that roasts up crunchy on the outside and creamy inside.
Olive Oil (1 tbsp)
Helps the spices adhere to the nuts and promotes even roasting.
Garlic Powder (1 tsp)
Adds savory depth and aroma without burning during roasting.
Chili Flakes (½ tsp)
Contribute gentle heat and texture throughout the nuts.
Ground Jalapeño Powder (1 tsp)
Adds bold, concentrated heat with a clean pepper flavor.
Salt (to taste)
Enhances flavor and balances the heat and richness of the cashews.
INGREDIENT ALTERNATIVES
Cashews
– Almonds
– Peanuts
Olive Oil
– Avocado oil
– Vegetable oil
Garlic Powder
– Onion powder
– Smoked garlic powder
Chili Flakes
– Cayenne pepper (use less)
– Paprika for mild heat
Ground Jalapeño Powder
– Chili powder
– Hot paprika
Salt
– Sea salt
– Kosher salt
These spicy roasted cashews are crisp, flavorful, and easy to make with pantry spices. Perfect for snacking, entertaining, or adding crunch to salads and bowls.
- 2 cups ½ cashews
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp chili flakes
- 1 tsp ground jalapeño powder
- Salt, to taste
- 1 Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- 2
Place the cashews into a mixing bowl and drizzle with the olive oil. Add the garlic powder, chili flakes, ground jalapeño powder, and salt. Toss thoroughly until the cashews are evenly coated and the spices are well distributed.- 3
Spread the seasoned cashews into a single layer on the prepared baking tray. Roast in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the cashews are lightly golden, fragrant, and crisp.- 4
Remove from the oven and allow the cashews to cool completely on the tray. They will continue to crisp as they cool. Once cooled, transfer to a serving bowl or airtight container.Note- Stir halfway through roasting to prevent uneven browning.
- Adjust spice levels by increasing or reducing chili flakes or jalapeño powder.
- Allow cashews to cool fully before storing for best crunch.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Add a pinch of sugar or honey drizzle before roasting for a sweet-heat version.
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