The holidays are here, and that hopefully means an influx of guests and fun celebrations over the next few weeks! As each year passes I like to think I grow older smarter, and with age wisdom comes the rising urge for simplicity– especially when it comes to entertaining. One pantry staple that makes holiday entertaining simple is a can of Planters Deluxe Mixed Nuts; they’re a classic crowd pleaser whether you serve them straight up or take a few extra minutes to add in a few ‘extras’. One such recipe is this delicious Pumpkin Spice Mixed Nuts party idea, sure to be a hit at your holiday gathering or as a homemade gift!
You guys, these pumpkin spiced nuts are delicious. They’re a smart snack while you prep dinner, too—their unique combination of good fats, dietary fiber, and vitamins and minerals means no regrets. Have these quick snacks on hand for unexpected company or to nosh on while waiting for the main meal. And they’re SO easy to make ahead; five minutes prep, an hour in the oven, and you’ve got a huge hit on your hands.
Mixed nuts look great straight out of the can, too, especially when placed in a pretty bowl and arranged with gouda cheese and dried berries. Or add in some gourmet cold cooked meats (such as prosciutto and smoked chorizo) and create a charcuterie board.
As for the Pumpkin Spiced Nuts recipe, one can of Planters Deluxe Mixed Nuts makes about 15 single servings of 1 oz. each. The flavor combo in this recipe has wonderful flavor, but my husband (lovingly) says it could use a tad more cayenne pepper if you’re a spicy food lover. So if you can handle heat, spice it up a bit more!
Ingredients:
One can (about 3 cups) of Planters Deluxe Mixed Nuts
1 egg white
2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice
¼ tsp. cayenne pepper
¼ c. white OR brown sugar
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 250 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk egg whites in a medium size bowl until frothy, about 20 seconds.
3. Stir the spices and sugar into the egg whites.
4. Add the nuts to the egg mixture, and stir to evenly coat.
5. Spread in a single layer on the baking sheet, and bake for about an hour (until crispy, but not burned).
6. Let cool for 10 minutes or longer. You can store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks!
Note to self: serving side is one ounce, not, you know, the whole bowl. 😉
Planters has been an American favorite for over 100 years, which is why I adore using them around the holidays for entertaining and for gift giving. With their unique combination of good fats, dietary fiber, and vitamins and minerals, nuts make a deliciously smart addition to your holiday festivities.
Hostess Hint: When the party’s over, send your guests home with a snack. These pumpkin spiced nuts make great gifts and party favors when added to small jars and tied with a sprig of rosemary and twine. Give guests something to enjoy on the road home.
The next time the doorbell rings with last-minute guests, grab your jar of Planters and some spices and whip up a deliciously easy party spread. Enjoy!
Leave a Reply