Pumpkin spice season is one of our favorite times of the year, and what better way to celebrate than with a snack that’s both cozy and crunchy? Pumpkin spice almonds bring together the warm flavors of fall with the satisfying crunch of roasted nuts, making them the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether we’re snacking on them during a crisp afternoon or sharing them at a gathering, they’re always a hit.
Pumpkin Spice Almonds Recipe
Let’s dive into this irresistibly crunchy and flavorful Pumpkin Spice Almonds Recipe. With just a few ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, we can create the perfect autumn snack that’s sweet, spiced, and deliciously satisfying. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients
- 2 cups raw almonds
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin spice mix
- (If you don’t have a mix, combine: 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon ginger, and 1/8 teaspoon cloves)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven
Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Melt the coconut oil
In a small microwave-safe bowl, warm 2 tablespoons of coconut oil until fully melted, about 30 seconds. Stir to ensure a smooth consistency.
- Prepare the pumpkin spice mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the melted coconut oil, 3 tablespoons maple syrup, pumpkin spice mix, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Stir until the mixture becomes a smooth, fragrant liquid.
- Coat the almonds
Add the raw almonds to the bowl with the pumpkin spice mixture. Toss well to ensure every almond is evenly coated with the spiced goodness.
- Spread and bake
Spread the coated almonds in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, stirring halfway through for even roasting. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to prevent burning.
- Cool and enjoy
Remove the almonds from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet. The coating will crisp up as they cool, giving the almonds a perfect crunch.
Quick Tip Table
| Step | Key Tips |
|---|---|
| Preheating | Use parchment paper for easy cleanup. |
| Coating | Mix thoroughly to ensure even flavoring. |
| Baking | Stir halfway through to prevent uneven roasting. |
| Cooling | Allow complete cooling; hot almonds may stick. |
Ingredients
Here’s everything we need to make these delicious pumpkin spice almonds. Be sure to gather and prep all ingredients in advance for smooth preparation.
- 2 cups raw almonds
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice mix
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Ingredient Notes
- For the almonds, raw and unroasted ones work best to absorb the flavors.
- Use pure maple syrup for natural sweetness instead of refined sugar.
- The pumpkin spice mix typically includes cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves—but feel free to use a store-bought version or make your own with the spices on hand.
Tools And Equipment
To prepare Pumpkin Spice Almonds, we need to ensure we have the right tools and equipment. Using proper tools not only simplifies the process but also helps achieve the best results. Here’s what we need:
Essential Tools:
- Baking Sheet: A standard, non-stick baking sheet is crucial for evenly roasting the almonds. You can line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and simplify cleanup.
- Mixing Bowl: A medium or large mixing bowl works well to coat the almonds evenly with the pumpkin spice mixture.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurement is essential for maintaining the perfect balance of sweetness and spice.
- Small Saucepan (optional): Ideal for melting the coconut oil if it’s solid. You can skip this if using pre-melted oil.
- Rubber Spatula or Spoon: Use this to combine and thoroughly mix the ingredients without leaving residue behind.
- Wire Cooling Rack: Helps the almonds cool evenly and retain their crunch post-baking.
Optional Accessories:
Although not mandatory, these items can enhance convenience:
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat: Prevents almonds from sticking and ensures even heat distribution.
- Glass Jar or Airtight Container: For storing the finished Pumpkin Spice Almonds and keeping them fresh.
Quick Reference Table:
| Tool/Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Baking Sheet | For roasting almonds evenly and holding them during baking. |
| Mixing Bowl | To mix almonds with the pumpkin spice mixture thoroughly. |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Ensures precise measurements for consistency. |
| Small Saucepan | Optional tool for melting coconut oil (if needed). |
| Rubber Spatula/Spoon | Helps mix ingredients and coats almonds evenly without sticking. |
| Wire Cooling Rack | Allows airflow for proper cooling after baking. |
| Parchment Paper/Mat | Non-stick surface for baking; simplifies cleaning. |
| Storage Container | Keeps cooked almonds fresh and crunchy after baking. |
By gathering these tools in advance, we save time and keep our workspace orderly. Proper tools not only ensure efficiency in our process but also contribute to the perfect finish of our flavorful Pumpkin Spice Almonds.
Directions
Let’s get started on making these delicious and crunchy pumpkin spice almonds. Following these simple steps will ensure that your snack turns out perfectly every time.
Prep
- Preheat the oven to 325°F. This ensures you have an evenly heated space for roasting.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with coconut oil to keep the almonds from sticking.
- Measure out 2 cups of raw almonds and set them aside. Make sure the almonds are unroasted for maximum flavor absorption.
Mix The Ingredients
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the following:
- 2 Tablespoons of melted coconut oil
- 2 Tablespoons of pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 ½ teaspoons of pumpkin spice mix (blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves recommended)
- A pinch of sea salt
Use a whisk or a rubber spatula to mix until smooth and fully combined. The mixture should be slightly thick and aromatic. The warm scents of the pumpkin spice and vanilla will fill the air.
Coat The Almonds
- Add the raw almonds to the bowl containing the pumpkin spice mixture.
- Toss the almonds using a rubber spatula until they are evenly coated. Ensure that each almond is glistening with the flavorful mixture. Do not rush this step; it’s key to achieving consistent flavor in every bite.
Roast The Almonds
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Spread on Baking Sheet | Arrange the coated almonds in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid crowding to allow even roasting. |
| Roast in Oven | Bake at 325°F for 15-20 minutes. Stir the almonds halfway through to ensure even cooking and prevent burning. |
| Check Doneness | The almonds are ready when they turn golden and the coating appears dry and slightly caramelized. |
| Cool Completely | Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the almonds to cool on the sheet for about 15-20 minutes. Cooling helps achieve crispiness. |
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying these pumpkin spice almonds, there are plenty of delicious and creative ways to incorporate them into your day. Their crispy texture and warm, spiced flavors make them versatile enough to complement both sweet and savory dishes. Here are some of our favorite suggestions for serving and enjoying this fall-inspired snack:
1. Snacking On-the-Go
Pack these almonds into small, airtight containers or resealable bags for a convenient, healthy snack on busy days. Their portability makes them perfect for work, school, or road trips.
2. Topping for Breakfast Bowls
Sprinkle a handful of these pumpkin spice almonds over oatmeal, yogurt parfaits, or smoothie bowls. They add a satisfying crunch and the perfect touch of fall flavor to your morning meal.
3. Pairing with Cheese Boards
Include these almonds on a cheese or charcuterie board for a seasonal twist. The warm spices pair beautifully with aged cheddar, goat cheese, or even creamy Brie.
4. Mixing with Trail Mix
Combine these spiced almonds with dried cranberries, dark chocolate chunks, sunflower seeds, and shredded coconut to create a custom fall trail mix. It’s a great option for hikes or afternoon energy boosts.
5. Topping Salads
Elevate your favorite salad by adding these almonds for an extra crunch and flavor. We love pairing them with arugula, roasted squash, cranberries, and a tangy vinaigrette.
6. Dessert Enhancer
Use these almonds as a garnish for desserts, like pumpkin pie, apple crisp, or ice cream. The sweet, spiced crunch provides a delightful contrast to creamy or fruity bases.
Hosting Tip:
Serve these almonds in small decorative bowls at your next fall gathering. Pair them with warm apple cider or chai tea for a cozy and welcoming experience.
| Serving Idea | Flavor Pairing | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| As a snack | Solo, with tea or coffee | Quick energy boost |
| Breakfast topping | Over smoothies, oatmeal, or yogurt | Enhances texture and adds spice flavor |
| Cheese board addition | Pair with Brie, cheddar, or goat cheese | Sophisticated snack for guests |
| Trail mix ingredient | Mix with dried fruits and seeds | Perfect for hikes or kid-friendly snacks |
| Salad topping | Combine with cranberries and vinaigrette | Adds crunch to greens |
| Dessert garnish | Sprinkle on ice cream or pie | Adds a sweet, spiced crunch |
Make-Ahead And Storage Tips
To ensure the pumpkin spice almonds stay fresh and maintain their delightful crunch, it is important to store them properly and plan for make-ahead preparation. Let’s go through the best practices for storing these flavorful almonds.
Make-Ahead Preparation
- Batch Cooking: Preparing pumpkin spice almonds in advance is a breeze. We can double or triple the recipe to make a larger batch, ensuring we have plenty on hand for snacking or entertaining.
- Cooling Completely: Before storing, allow the roasted almonds to cool completely. Any residual warmth can create condensation inside storage containers, leading to sogginess.
- Portioning: Divide the almonds into smaller portions if needed for convenient grab-and-go snacks or gifting.
Proper Storage Techniques
- Airtight Containers: The key to maintaining crisp, flavorful almonds is using an airtight container. Glass jars with screw lids, resealable plastic bags, or silicone food storage bags work best.
- Dark, Cool Place: Store the almonds in a cool pantry or cupboard away from sunlight and heat sources. Exposure to light and heat can cause the nuts to lose their flavor and freshness more quickly.
- Use-by Timeline: For optimal flavor and texture, consume your almonds within 1-2 weeks when stored at room temperature. If refrigeration is an option, you can extend the shelf life significantly.
Long-Term Storage
If you’re planning for a longer storage period, freezing is an excellent option. Follow these steps for freezing:
- Place fully cooled almonds in a freezer-safe, airtight container or bag.
- Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
- Freeze for up to 3 months, ensuring the flavor and texture remain intact.
- When ready to enjoy, remove desired portions and let them thaw at room temperature for a few minutes.
Quick Reference Table
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 1-2 weeks | Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. |
| Refrigeration | 3-4 weeks | Keep sealed to prevent moisture and odors from affecting the almonds’ flavor. |
| Freezing | Up to 3 months | Use a freezer-safe container and thaw only what is needed to prevent waste. |
Additional Tips
- Gifting Option: For seasonal treats, store the almonds in decorative tins or glass jars, tied with a ribbon for a thoughtful gift.
- Re-crisping Tip: If almonds lose their crunch over time, reheat in the oven at 300°F for 5 minutes to revive their texture.
- Labeling Storage Dates: Always label homemade snacks with the preparation date so you can track freshness accurately.
Conclusion
Pumpkin spice almonds are the perfect way to embrace the cozy flavors of fall while enjoying a satisfying crunch. Whether you’re snacking solo, hosting friends, or looking for a creative gift idea, these almonds bring warmth and versatility to any occasion.
With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is a must-try for pumpkin spice lovers. From their irresistible aroma to their golden caramelized finish, these almonds are sure to become a seasonal favorite in no time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are pumpkin spice almonds?
Pumpkin spice almonds are a fall-inspired snack made by coating raw almonds with a mixture of pumpkin spice, maple syrup, coconut oil, and other flavorful ingredients, then roasting them until crispy. They combine the cozy flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves with a delightful crunch.
Can I use roasted almonds instead of raw almonds?
It’s recommended to use raw almonds, as they absorb the flavors better during baking. Using pre-roasted almonds may result in uneven seasoning or overcooking.
What is pumpkin spice made of?
Pumpkin spice typically consists of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. You can purchase it premade or mix these spices in your kitchen for a homemade blend.
How do I store pumpkin spice almonds?
Store completely cooled almonds in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. For extended freshness, you can freeze them in portions and thaw as needed.
Can I substitute maple syrup with another sweetener?
Yes, you can use honey or agave syrup as alternatives. However, maple syrup is preferred for its natural sweetness and rich flavor that complements pumpkin spice.
How long do pumpkin spice almonds stay fresh?
When stored properly in an airtight container, they can stay fresh for up to 2 weeks at room temperature. Freezing can extend their shelf life to 2-3 months.
What are some serving ideas for pumpkin spice almonds?
Pumpkin spice almonds can be enjoyed as a snack, added to trail mixes, sprinkled over oatmeal or yogurt, garnished on desserts, or served at gatherings in decorative bowls with warm fall beverages.
Can I make pumpkin spice almonds ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare them in advance and store them in airtight containers. This makes them a perfect snack for busy days or hosting gatherings.
What tools do I need to make pumpkin spice almonds?
You’ll need a baking sheet, parchment paper (optional), a mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, and a spatula for easy preparation and even coating of almonds.
How can I re-crisp almonds if they lose their crunch?
To re-crisp almonds, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 300°F for 5-7 minutes. Let them cool completely to regain their crunchiness.
Can I gift pumpkin spice almonds?
Yes, they make a fantastic homemade gift! Package them in decorative jars or bags, and tie with a ribbon for a thoughtful, seasonal present.
Are pumpkin spice almonds healthy?
Yes, they’re a wholesome snack when enjoyed in moderation. Almonds provide protein and healthy fats, while the natural sweeteners and spices add flavor without excessive calories.