As the day wanes and your stomach starts that familiar rumble, signalling the time for an afternoon snack, don’t reach for the same old, same old. This time, let’s turn things up a notch with some Spicy Candied Walnuts, air-fried to perfection. This isn’t just about satiating your midday hunger pangs but also giving your tastebuds a treat.

Now, why am I touting these crunchy delights, you ask?

Well, walnuts pack quite the nutritional punch. They’re rich in antioxidants, support good brain function, and aid in maintaining a healthy heart. Omega-3 fats, which walnuts are replete with, are associated with numerous health benefits, including reducing heart disease risk. Not too shabby for a little afternoon nibble, right?

In this recipe, we’ve skipped the sodium overload and added a kick with a dash of cayenne pepper. Fear not, the honey and cinnamon are there to balance things out, providing just enough sweetness to complement the spice.

But the real game-changer here is the air-frying method. Air fryers cut down on the excessive oil without compromising the satisfying crunch that makes candied walnuts so irresistible. So, you get to indulge in your snack without the worry of loading up on unnecessary fats.

Of course, I’m not saying these walnuts are some magic health food. But when it comes to choosing a snack, this one’s a fairly smart pick. Just remember, moderation is key.

As you crunch on these spicy candied walnuts, you’re not just munching on a snack, but a delicious blend of flavors that won’t throw a wrench in your health-conscious lifestyle. Go on, savor the spice, and let your afternoon snack time be a guilt-free gastronomic adventure.

After all, who said heart-friendly has to be boring?

Air-Fried Spicy Candied Walnuts

Spicy Candied Walnuts are a satisfying, heart-friendly snack that bring together the natural crunch of walnuts, the sweetness of honey, and a fiery kick from cayenne pepper. Air-fried to cut down on excessive oil, these nibbles deliver a health-conscious way to satiate your midday hunger pangs without compromising on flavor. As a bonus, they offer a good dose of antioxidants and omega-3 fats. Enjoy them as an exciting, guilt-free choice for your snack time!

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Prep Time 11 minutes mins

Course Beach Snacks, Snack

Cuisine California

Servings 2 cups

Sodium 4 mg

Equipment

COSORI Air Fryer 

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 2 cups walnut halves
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

 

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). If your air fryer has a preheat setting, use it.
• In a bowl, combine the honey, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt (if using). Stir until everything is well combined.
• Add the walnuts to the bowl and toss until all the walnuts are evenly coated with the spice mixture.
• Transfer the coated walnuts to the air fryer basket. Spread them out into a single layer.
• Air fry the walnuts for about 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. Be sure to watch them closely during the last few minutes to prevent burning, as the honey can cause them to darken quickly.
• Once done, let them cool for a bit. They will become crispier as they cool down.

Notes

Enjoy these spicy candied walnuts as a snack, or use them to top salads or desserts for a burst of flavor and crunch. Always remember to store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh and crispy.

Nutrition

Serving: 6gCalories: 898kcalCarbohydrates: 52gProtein: 18gFat: 76gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 55gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 4mgPotassium: 551mgFiber: 9gSugar: 38gVitamin A: 132IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 129mgIron: 4mg

Keyword Snack Nuts, Sweet & Spicy

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