Homemade Adams and Brooks P-Nuttles Sweet and Spicy Snack Mix -12 Resealable Bags Recipe: A Healthier, Customizable Delight

Category: Snack Mix

Introduction

Adams and Brooks P-Nuttles Sweet and Spicy Snack Mix is a beloved treat known for its perfect blend of nuts and seeds coated in a sweet and spicy seasoning. The mix typically includes peanuts, almonds, and pumpkin seeds, offering a crunchy texture with a flavor that's both savory and slightly sweet. With a history of satisfying snack lovers, this mix has become a staple in many households. However, store-bought versions can be high in sodium and sugar, making a homemade version an appealing alternative for health-conscious individuals who still crave that delicious flavor.

Making this snack mix at home allows for customization, healthier ingredients, and cost-effectiveness. By using natural sweeteners and baking instead of frying, the homemade version offers a guilt-free snacking option. Plus, you can tailor the spice level to your liking, making it as mild or as fiery as you prefer.

Why Make It at Home?

Creating your own snack mix at home provides several benefits. You can control the amount of sugar and sodium, use higher-quality ingredients, and customize the flavors to suit your taste preferences. It's also a cost-effective option, as buying ingredients in bulk can be more economical than purchasing pre-packaged snacks.

Personal Anecdote

I remember discovering Adams and Brooks P-Nuttles during a road trip. The combination of sweet and spicy was addictive, but I was concerned about the nutritional content. This inspired me to recreate it at home, using healthier ingredients while maintaining that irresistible flavor. The result was a snack that not only tasted better but also aligned with my dietary goals.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:10 minutes
• **Cook Time:20 minutes
• **Total Time:30 minutes
• **Yield:4 cups (about 12 servings)

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 cups (250g) peanuts
• 1 cup (120g) almonds
• 1/2 cup (60g) pumpkin seeds

Seasoning:

• 1 tbsp (15g) brown sugar
• 1 tsp (5g) smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp (2g) garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp (2g) onion powder
• 1/4 tsp (1g) chili powder
• 1/4 tsp (1g) cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• 1/2 tsp (3g) salt

Wet Ingredients:

• 1-2 tbsp (15-30ml) coconut oil or olive oil

Instructions

• Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

• Mix Nuts and Seeds: In a large bowl, combine peanuts, almonds, and pumpkin seeds.

• Add Oil: Drizzle 1 tablespoon of oil over the nut mixture and toss until evenly coated. If the mixture seems dry, add the second tablespoon of oil.

• Prepare Seasoning: In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt.

• Coat Seasoning: Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the nut mixture and toss until the nuts and seeds are evenly coated.

• Bake: Spread the seasoned nut mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until fragrant and lightly toasted. Monitor to prevent burning.

• Cool and Store: Allow the mixture to cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cool, transfer to an airtight container for storage.

Variations

• Low-Sugar Version: Reduce brown sugar to 1 teaspoon or use a natural sweetener like stevia.
• Spicy Version: Increase cayenne pepper to 1/2 teaspoon or add diced jalapeños.
• Smoky Version: Add 1/4 teaspoon liquid smoke or additional smoked paprika.
• Dietary Restrictions: Use gluten-free seasonings for gluten-free diets or choose vegan-friendly ingredients.

Special Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Optional: spice grinder for fresh spices

Pro Tips

• Enhance Flavor: Toast spices in a dry pan for 1-2 minutes before mixing for a deeper flavor.
• Crunchier Coating: Whisk 1 tablespoon of egg white until frothy and toss with nuts before adding seasoning for a crunchier texture.
• Brighten Flavor: Add a pinch of citrus zest, like orange or lime, for a refreshing twist.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Ingredient Substitutions: Can I use different nuts or seeds?

  • Yes, feel free to experiment with other nuts like cashews or seeds like sunflower seeds.

• Adjusting Spice Level: What if it's too spicy?

  • Reduce or omit cayenne pepper for a milder version.

• Storage Tips: How long does it last?

  • Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Refrigerate for longer freshness.

• Making it Crunchier: How to achieve a crunchier texture?

  • Try the egg white tip or bake for a few more minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.

• Scaling the Recipe: Can I make a larger batch?

  • Double or triple the ingredients as needed, adjusting baking time slightly for larger batches.

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy as a quick snack on its own.
• Sprinkle over yogurt or oatmeal for added crunch and flavor.
• Mix into homemade trail mix for a sweet and spicy kick.

Conclusion

This homemade version of Adams and Brooks P-Nuttles offers a healthier, customizable alternative to the store-bought snack. With less sugar and sodium, it's a nutritious option that still satisfies your cravings. The ability to adjust flavors and ingredients makes it a versatile choice for any snacking preference. Give it a try and enjoy the perfect blend of sweet and spicy in every bite!