In the fall, I made some spicy cashews for my Thanksgiving baskets.  During this endeavor, I discovered that my beau loves all kinds of nuts, especially cashew and macadamia nuts.  While macadamia nuts are a bit too expensive for my budget, I can afford to make spicy cashews for him and that’s just what I did for Valentine’s Day.  However, it is important to note that you don’t have to do sweet things for your sweetie only on Valentine’s Day.  You should do little things all year long to keep your man happy.  He should be doing the same for you as well.  Keep the romance alive.  Make him this recipe mid-week and tell him how nuts you are for him.  It’s guaranteed to bring a smile to his face after a long day at work.

Sweet and Spicy Mixed Nuts (adapted from Paula Deen)

Ingredients

6 tbsp honey, 2 tbsp butter, 1/4 cup packed dark brown sugar, 2 tsp ground cayenne pepper, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 6 cups unsalted cashews, 2 cups salted peanuts

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350.  Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper or a Silpat.

2.  In a large bowl, combine honey and butter.  Melt in microwave for one minute.  Stir in brown sugar, pepper, and paprika.  Add the nuts and stir to coat.  Spread nuts on prepared pans.

3. Bake for 15 minutes, turning the tray halfway through the cooking time.

4. Remove from oven and let stand for 5 minutes.  Stir the nuts and then allow them to cool completely.  Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.  They wouldn’t last that long with the way my beau snacks on them!