BBQ Spiced Roasted Almonds with Smoky Paprika and Cumin

Prep: 15 minCook: 45 minmediumAmerican
BBQ Spiced Roasted Almonds with Smoky Paprika and Cumin

Crunchy roasted almonds coated in a bold BBQ spice blend featuring paprika, chili powder, cumin, and garlic. The almonds are soaked overnight for optimal texture, then slow-roasted until perfectly crispy. This protein-packed snack delivers smoky, savory flavors with a hint of sweetness from erythritol-based sweetener. Perfect for parties, game day, or whenever you need a satisfying low-carb snack that beats store-bought options.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups raw almonds
    mixed nuts1:1tags:varietytree_nuts-free

    note:use cashews, pecans, walnuts

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    avocado oil1:1tags:neutral

    note:higher smoke point

    Full guide →
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Swerve Sweetener, granulated
    coconut sugar1:1note:adds natural sweetness

    conf:4

  • 1 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. 1

    Place the almonds in a large jar and cover with water

  2. 2

    Soak for 12 hours

  3. 3

    Drain off the water and spread the almonds onto paper towels and pat dry

  4. 4

    Preheat the oven to 300°F and line a baking sheet with parchment

  5. 5

    In a medium sized bowl toss the dry almonds with the olive oil and spices

  6. 6

    Spread the almonds out in a single layer on the baking sheet

  7. 7

    Transfer to oven and bake 45 minutes tossing occasionally

  8. 8

    Check that they are dry and crunchy after 45 minutes

  9. 9

    If still wet in the middle continue to bake until desired texture is reached

Tips

Tip 1

Soaking almonds overnight makes them easier to digest and creates a crispier final texture when roasted.

Tip 2

Toss almonds every 15 minutes during baking to ensure even browning and prevent burning.

Tip 3

Store in an airtight container for up to one week to maintain maximum crunchiness.

Good to Know

Storage

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week

Make Ahead

Can be made up to one week ahead and stored in airtight container

Serve With

Serve at room temperature as a snack or appetizer

See pairing guide →

Common Mistakes

Watch

Skip the soaking step to avoid tough, chewy almonds

Watch

Don't overcrowd the baking sheet to ensure even roasting

Watch

Watch carefully in final 15 minutes to prevent burning

Substitutions

Nut-Free Alternatives

raw almonds
mixed nuts1:1tags:varietytree_nuts-free

note:use cashews, pecans, walnuts

Full guide →

General Alternatives

Swerve Sweetener
coconut sugar1:1note:adds natural sweetness

conf:4

Full guide →
olive oil
avocado oil1:1tags:neutral

note:higher smoke point

Full guide →
Find more substitutions →

FAQ

Can I skip the soaking step?

While possible, soaking makes almonds more digestible and creates a crispier texture when roasted. For best results, don't skip this step.

How long will these keep fresh?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They may lose some crispness after that.

Can I use different spices?

Absolutely! Try curry powder, ranch seasoning, or Italian herbs. Keep the oil and salt ratios the same for proper coating.