Sweet Salty Holiday Nut Mix

Featured in: Weekend Cabin-Style Treats

This sweet and salty holiday nut mix combines roasted cashews, pecans, and almonds coated with a spiced blend of butter, maple syrup, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. After baking to a golden finish, crunchy mini pretzels and dried cranberries are gently mixed in, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Ideal for snacking or gifting during the festive season, this easy-to-make treat offers a harmonious blend of sweetness, saltiness, and subtle heat.

Updated on Fri, 12 Dec 2025 13:36:00 GMT
Warm, spiced Sweet and Salty Holiday Nut Bowl: a festive, golden-brown mix perfect for sharing. Save to Pinterest
Warm, spiced Sweet and Salty Holiday Nut Bowl: a festive, golden-brown mix perfect for sharing. | mosscedar.com

A festive, irresistible mix of roasted nuts, crunchy pretzels, dried cranberries, and a hint of sweet spice—perfect for holiday snacking or gifting.

This nut bowl has become a staple at my holiday gatherings, everyone always asks for seconds!

Ingredients

  • Raw cashews: 1 cup
  • Raw pecans: 1 cup
  • Raw almonds: 1 cup
  • Mini pretzels (gluten-free optional): 1 cup
  • Dried cranberries: 1/2 cup
  • Unsalted butter, melted: 2 tablespoons
  • Maple syrup or honey: 2 tablespoons
  • Brown sugar: 2 tablespoons
  • Sea salt: 1 teaspoon
  • Ground cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Ground cayenne pepper (optional): 1/4 teaspoon

Instructions

Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2:
In a large bowl, combine cashews, pecans, and almonds.
Step 3:
In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, maple syrup (or honey), brown sugar, salt, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper (if using).
Step 4:
Pour the sweet and salty mixture over the nuts and toss to coat evenly.
Step 5:
Spread the coated nuts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 6:
Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the nuts are golden and fragrant.
Step 7:
Remove from the oven and immediately add the pretzels and dried cranberries. Toss gently to combine.
Step 8:
Let the mixture cool completely on the baking sheet. The coating will harden as it cools.
Step 9:
Once cool, transfer to a serving bowl or airtight container.
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This treat always brings the family together, sparking joy and holiday cheer at every bite.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with sparkling wine or spiced cider for a festive touch.

Dietary Notes

Vegetarian and gluten-free options available when using gluten-free pretzels.

Storage Tips

Keep in an airtight container to maintain crunchiness and freshness throughout the week.

Close-up of a delicious Sweet and Salty Holiday Nut Bowl; perfectly roasted nuts offer a satisfying crunch. Save to Pinterest
Close-up of a delicious Sweet and Salty Holiday Nut Bowl; perfectly roasted nuts offer a satisfying crunch. | mosscedar.com

This nut bowl is the perfect last-minute snack that feels thoughtful and homemade.

Recipe Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different nuts for this mix?

Yes, you can substitute pecans or cashews with walnuts, hazelnuts, or pistachios to customize the flavor and texture.

How do I make this nut mix gluten-free?

Use gluten-free mini pretzels to ensure the mix is safe for gluten-sensitive individuals.

What is the best way to store the nut mix?

Store the mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain freshness and crunch.

Can I add extra seeds to this mix?

Absolutely, adding pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds can enhance crunch and nutritional value.

What beverages pair well with this nut blend?

Sparkling wine or spiced cider complements the flavors beautifully, offering a festive pairing option.

Sweet Salty Holiday Nut Mix

A delightful mix of roasted nuts, pretzels, cranberries, and spices for festive snacking or gifting.

Time to Prep
10 minutes
Time to Cook
20 minutes
Overall Time
30 minutes
Recipe by Jacob King


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Type American

Makes 8 Number of Servings

Dietary Details Vegetarian-Friendly

Ingredient List

Nuts

01 1 cup raw cashews
02 1 cup raw pecans
03 1 cup raw almonds

Sweet and Salty Components

01 1 cup mini pretzels (gluten-free optional)
02 1/2 cup dried cranberries
03 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
04 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
05 2 tablespoons brown sugar
06 1 teaspoon sea salt
07 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
08 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional)

How to Prepare

Step 01

Prepare oven and baking sheet: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 02

Combine nuts: In a large bowl, mix together the cashews, pecans, and almonds.

Step 03

Mix sweet and salty coating: In a small bowl, whisk melted butter with maple syrup or honey, brown sugar, sea salt, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper if using.

Step 04

Coat nuts evenly: Pour the sweet and salty mixture over the nuts and toss thoroughly to ensure even coating.

Step 05

Arrange nuts for baking: Spread the coated nuts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 06

Bake nuts: Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until nuts turn golden and fragrant.

Step 07

Add pretzels and cranberries: Remove nuts from oven and immediately stir in the mini pretzels and dried cranberries until combined.

Step 08

Cool mixture: Allow the nut and pretzel blend to cool completely on the baking sheet so the coating hardens.

Step 09

Store or serve: Transfer cooled mixture to a serving bowl or airtight container for storage.

What You’ll Need

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Spatula

Allergy Details

Always check every ingredient for allergens. Talk to a healthcare provider if you’re not sure.
  • Contains tree nuts (cashews, pecans, almonds)
  • Contains gluten unless gluten-free pretzels are used
  • Contains dairy from butter

Nutrition Information (each serving)

Nutrition info is for reference only and not a substitute for doctor’s advice.
  • Energy: 260
  • Total Fat: 17 g
  • Carbohydrates: 23 g
  • Total Protein: 5 g