If you’re looking for a simple, budget-friendly DIY gift this holiday season, these Sweet & Spicy Cashews are exactly what you need.
Made with whole-food ingredients and ready in under 20 minutes, they’re the kind of snack people can’t stop eating—and they look beautiful packaged in bags or tins for gifting.
December can feel overwhelming— especially for those of us navigating stress, hormonal shifts, or simply trying to keep up with the season’s demands. The pressure to find the perfect gift, stay on budget, and still show up for everyone can leave us feeling depleted before the holidays even arrive.
That’s why I love recipes like this one: thoughtful, homemade, and rooted in nourishment rather than overwhelm.
Each year I run my FREE 25-Day Self-Care Advent Challenge Event, one tiny act of care a day to reduce stress and help women feel grounded again. Simple DIY gifts like these spiced nuts are part of that bigger mission: less stress, more presence, and a little extra joy in the kitchen.
Make It a Simple, Heartfelt Gift
Because these cashews are made with simple pantry staples and just one baking sheet, they help reduce the financial pressure that so often builds in December. Nuts are often on sale this time of year, and a few cute bags, some ribbon, and a heartfelt note make a beautiful gift from the heart—with no overwhelm and no overspending.
This makes a wonderful gift for the snack lover, the host, the neighbour, the teacher, or anyone who appreciates good food made with care.
Why You’ll Love These Sweet & Spicy Cashews
Made with whole-food ingredients
Ready in under 20 minutes
Sweetened naturally with maple syrup
Perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and herby
Budget-friendly DIY holiday gift
Versatile—use any nuts or seeds you have on hand
The rosemary + lime combo is absolutely addictive
Simple enough for even the most exhausted December brain
Sweet & Spicy Cashews
A sweet, spicy, and herby roasted nut recipe with maple syrup, fresh rosemary, and a hint of lime. Perfect for holiday snacking, entertaining, or packaging up as a beautiful budget-friendly DIY gift.
Equipment
- 1 baking sheet
- parchment paper
- 1 mixing bowl
- gift bags/tins for gifting optional
Ingredients
- 2 cups cashews
- 1/4 cup olive oil I used 1/4 cup of nelson olive oil chipotle oil + 1/4 cup Persian lime oil for added flavour
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 2 tbsp rosemary, chopped thyme works too, fresh or dry will work
- 1 tsp flaky sea salt
- 1 tbsp Tajin or smoked paprika
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cashews, oil, maple syrup, rosemary, sea salt, and spice of choice. Toss until the nuts are evenly coated.
- Spread the mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.Bake for 10-15 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden and fragrant. Watch closely, nuts can burn quickly!
- Remove from oven and let cool completely on the baking sheet (they'll crisp up as they cool).Package in gift bags or tins and add a label or ribbon for gifting, free printable tags below!
Notes
How to Use Sweet & Spicy Cashews
- Serve as a holiday appetizer or snack
- Add to cheese boards and charcuterie platters
- Sprinkle over salads for crunch
- Package in bags or tins for homemade gifts
- Set out for holiday gatherings and watch them disappear
- Enjoy with a cozy drink by the fire
Make It Your Own
This is an inclusive recipe—use what you have, love, and fits your budget! Swap cashews for almonds, pecans, walnuts, or even seeds like pumpkin or sunflower. Adjust the spice level to your preference, and try different herb combinations like thyme or sage.Storage
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 weeks, or freeze for up to 3 months. Let come to room temperature before serving for best texture.Gifting Tips
- Use clear cellophane bags or small tins for a beautiful presentation
- Add a ribbon, twine, or festive fabric topper
- Include a small card with storage instructions
- Pair with a bottle of wine or a nice cheese for a complete gift
- These are always requested at parties—make a double batch!
The Gift Bags, Flavour Oils I Used + FREE Printable Labels
The flavour oils I use come from Nelson Olive Oil Co! Shop via this link and use my code for 10% off your order. USE CODE REJOICE-10 at Checkout.
I love these gift bags because they’re affordable, cute, and perfect for gifting:
Gift bags I used: AMAZON GIFT BAGS I USED
Or keep it even more budget-friendly by reusing bags, tins, or jars you already have at home.
From My Kitchen to Yours
I truly hope you enjoy these Sweet & Spicy Cashews. I’m Joanna, a women’s wellness practitioner who supports women 35+ in reducing stress, balancing hormones, and feeling grounded again through simple whole-food recipes and nervous-system care.
Every December, I share low-stress, budget-friendly holiday ideas on Instagram & Facebook, and if you’re craving a little extra support, you’re always welcome to join my gentle 25-Day Self-Care Advent Challenge. It has run for 10+ years and supported thousands of women around the globe every December.
Click Here to Learn More About the Self-Care Advent Challenge
In great health,
JO