Florencia Baldini Last Updated on December 20, 2025You know those snacks that are so moreish you end up eating half the jar before your guests arrive? That’s exactly what these sweet and savoury roasted cashews are. They’re crunchy, salty, garlicky, and just the right amount of sweet, with a warming hint of rosemary and cayenne. We make these every year during the festive season—and I promise they disappear fast.
What I love most is how easy they are to throw together. A handful of wholesome ingredients, a few spices, and 10 minutes in the air fryer—that’s it! Whether you’re hosting friends or just want a better snack to keep around the house, this one ticks all the boxes. Nutritious, flavour-packed, and guaranteed to impress.
Ways to Enjoy It
- Serve in small bowls for a festive (or non-festive!) nibble before dinner.
- Wrap in cellophane bags with ribbon for a homemade foodie gift.
- Sprinkle over roasted veg or salads for extra crunch.
- Take a small jar to work for an energy-boosting desk snack.
How To Make It
Step 1
Add the cashews to a large bowl. Add all the remaining ingredients on top, including the rosemary, spices, salt, olive oil and honey.
Step 2
Mix well until the cashews are evenly coated and there are no dry patches of seasoning left in the bowl.
Step 3 – Air Fryer
For the air fryer method, line the basket with baking paper and spread the cashews out in a single layer. Cook in two batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.
Air fry at 180°C (350°F) for 5–8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the cashews are golden and fragrant.
Step 3 – Oven
For the oven method, spread the coated cashews evenly on a baking tray lined with baking paper.
Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10–12 minutes, mixing halfway through to ensure even roasting.
Step 7
Remove from the air fryer or oven and allow the cashews to cool completely. They will crisp up further as they cool.
Tips
- Let them cool completely: They crisp up as they cool, so don’t rush into the jar too soon.
- Use whole cashews: Roasted, unsalted cashews give the best texture and allow the flavours to shine.
- Shake halfway: Give them a toss halfway through air frying so they roast evenly.
- Don’t skip the rosemary: It adds an amazing aroma that makes the whole batch feel extra special.
Swaps
Cashews: You could try this with almonds or pecans, but cashews are ideal for this sweet-savoury combo.
Honey: Maple syrup works well too, especially if you want to keep it vegan.
Lime juice: A splash of lemon juice will still give you that bright finish.
Cayenne: If you’re not into spice, reduce it or swap for smoked paprika for a milder version.
Storage
Fridge: Not needed—store in an airtight jar at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Freezer: I don’t recommend freezing as they’ll lose their crunch.
More Nibble Ideas
Rosemary & Honey Roasted Nuts (Easy Party Snack)
Video
Ingredients
- 270 g cashews
- 20 ml extra virgin olive oil
- 20 ml honey
- 1 tbsp rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp cayenne
- squeeze lime juice
Instructions
- Add all the ingredients to a bowl and mix well until the cashews are evenly coated.
- You can cook the rosemary nuts either in the air fryer or in the oven.
- If using an air fryer, line the basket with baking paper and arrange the cashews in a single layer. Cook in two batches if needed to avoid overcrowding, which helps them toast evenly.
- Air fry at 180°C (350°F) for 5–8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking.
- If using the oven, spread the cashews on a lined baking tray and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 10–12 minutes, mixing halfway through.
- Remove from the air fryer or oven once golden and fragrant, then allow the nuts to cool completely. They will crisp up further as they cool.