Sweet and Spicy Cocoa Almonds
Author: Nicole
Ingredients
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1-1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoons cayenne pepper (or to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1 egg white (from large egg)
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste (see Notes)
  • 3 cups raw almonds (~ 1 pound)
Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 275°F. Line a large cookie sheet (17” by 11”) with parchment paper and set aside.
  2. In a small mixing bowl, combine sugar, cocoa powder, cinnamon, cayenne pepper and salt. Whisk to remove any lumps.
  3. In a larger mixing bowl, whisk together egg white and vanilla bean paste until frothy.
  4. Add almonds and toss in egg mixture.
  5. Pour the sugar and cocoa mixture into the almond and egg mixture. Stir until almonds are evenly coated.
  6. Transfer almonds to the prepared baking sheet. Spread into an even layer.
  7. Roast for about 40 to 45 minutes, stirring every 10 to 15 minutes. Watch them carefully so they do not burn.
  8. Cool on the baking sheet on a wire rack. Once cooled, break clusters into individual almonds.
  9. Store in an airtight container or ziplock bag at room temperature for up to two weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.
Notes
* I like Nielsen-Massey's Madagascar Bourbon Pure Vanilla Bean Paste. If you don't have it use 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract or the seeds from one vanilla bean.
Recipe by Riegl Palate at https://www.rieglpalate.com/sweet-and-spicy-cocoa-almonds/