Spiced Peanuts
These Spiced Peanuts are salted cocktail peanuts tossed with chili powder, garlic powder and a little cayenne, then roasted for a few minutes until the spices cling to every one. They’re crunchy, savory and just spicy enough, and they’re ready in about 15 minutes.
I make a big batch for game days and holiday parties, and they’re great tucked onto a snack board. Set out a bowl next to my Christmas Tree Charcuterie Board and they’ll be gone before the cheese.
Why you’ll love these Spiced Peanuts
The Best Spiced Peanuts for Game Day, Holiday Parties, and Gifts
These spiced peanuts don’t stand a chance in my house! The mix of garlic and cayenne gives them just the right kick, and they’re so simple to throw together. My husband and son snack on them by the handful, and I even have to hide a stash for road trips, or they’d be gone before we leave the driveway!
They also make an easy homemade gift. Spoon them into a jar, add a label and a ribbon, and you’ve got something for teachers, neighbors or a hostess gift at Christmas.
Ingredients Needed for Spiced Peanuts
- Salted Cocktail Peanuts: These give the perfect balance of salty and savory. Use salted peanuts to skip the extra seasoning!
- Vegetable Oil: Helps the seasoning stick to the peanuts and adds a little richness.
- Chili Powder: Adds a warm, earthy flavor that pairs so well with peanuts.
- Garlic Powder: A must for that extra layer of savory goodness.
- Cayenne Pepper: Adds the perfect heat, but feel free to adjust this based on your spice tolerance!
How to make Spiced Peanuts
**For more detailed instructions, please refer to the printable recipe card below.**
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix the chili powder, garlic powder and cayenne pepper in a small bowl.
- Toss the peanuts with the oil and 1 tablespoon of the spice mix until they’re all coated, then spread them out on the baking sheet and bake for 5-10 minutes.
- Toss the hot peanuts with the rest of the spice mix, then let them cool. They taste even better the next day.
Variations
- Smoky Peanuts: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to give the peanuts a smoky depth.
- Sweet and Spicy: Mix in a tablespoon of brown sugar with the spices for a sweet kick.
- Herb Infused: Add a pinch of dried rosemary or thyme for a herby, savory flavor.
- Extra Hot: Boost the cayenne pepper or add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for even more heat.
- Lime Zing: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the peanuts after baking for a tangy twist.
Serving Suggestions
- As a Snack: Serve these on their own in a small bowl for a quick snack everyone will enjoy.
- Topping for Salads: Sprinkle them over salads for a crunchy, spicy topping.
- Party Platter: Add a bowl to a snack board with cheese and meats. They’re great next to my Christmas Tree Charcuterie Board.
- On the Go: Pack them in small bags for a road trip or hike. They’re easy to carry and filling.
- Game Day Munchies: Perfect for serving during football games or any casual gathering.
Storage and Freezing
- How should I store Spiced Peanuts?
If you want to keep the peanuts for a longer time, place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. The cool air helps maintain their crispness.
- Can I freeze Spiced Peanuts?
It’s not recommended to freeze spiced peanuts, as freezing can cause them to lose their crispness and alter their texture. You won’t have any leftovers, so you don’t need to worry.
Don’t forget to pin this for later!
Tips & Tricks
- Even Coating: Make sure to toss the peanuts thoroughly in the oil and spice mixture so each peanut is evenly coated for the best flavor.
- Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on the peanuts while they’re in the oven. They toast up quickly, and you don’t want them to burn!
- Customize the Heat: If you’re sensitive to spice, reduce the cayenne pepper to ¼ teaspoon, or omit it altogether.
- Make Ahead: These taste even better the next day, so if you’re planning for a party, make them ahead of time and store them in an airtight container overnight.
- Use Fresh Spices: Using fresh spices can really elevate the flavor. If your chili powder or garlic powder has been sitting in the pantry for too long, swap them out for new ones!
Recommended
More Party Snacks and Appetizers
Looking for More Party Food?
My Smoked Salmon Appetizer and Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Meatballs or Honey Garlic Chicken Wings round out a holiday snack table or a game day spread with almost no effort.
FAQ
Spiced Peanuts
Ingredients Â
- 3 cups salted peanuts
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
InstructionsÂ
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, mix together the chili powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
- Place the peanuts in a medium mixing bowl with the oil and 1 tablespoon of the seasoning mix. Stir until all the peanuts are evenly coated.
- Spread the peanuts on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 5-10 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and toss the peanuts with the remaining seasoning mix.
- Enjoy them right away or leave them in an airtight container overnight for enhanced flavor.
Can’t wait to try these!!
They are so good! Pro tip- make extra!!