Nuts Spiked with Cinnamon and Cayenne

A little bit spicy, a little bit sweet, they are the perfect way to stave off hunger. Make ’em yourself—and watch ’em disappear.

Makes 2½ cups

INGREDIENTS

• 3 tablespoons sugar
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon cayenne
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2½ cups nuts, such as almonds, pecans, walnuts, hazelnuts, and/or cashews (or a mix), shelled

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a small bowl, mix the sugar, spices, and salt.
2. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with wax paper.
3. In a large skillet, heat the butter over moderate heat until melted. Add the nuts and cook, stirring, until darkened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. If the nuts begin to darken too quickly, lower the heat.
4. Add the spice mixture to the nuts, and cook over low heat, stirring frequently, until richly fragrant and toasted, about 10 minutes longer. You’ve got to watch the pan constantly since you’ll be heating sugar, which burns quickly.
5. Spread the nuts out onto the prepared baking sheet and let cool.
6. Break up the nuts before serving.