Smoky Mixed Nuts with Crispy Chickpeas

Name: Smoky Mixed Nuts with Crispy Chickpeas
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 4 c.
Ingredients: 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 2 tbsp. olive oil; 2 tsp. kosher salt; 1 tsp. chipotle chile powder; 1 tsp. ground cumin; 1 tsp. garlic powder; 1 tsp. smoked paprika; 1 tsp. poultry seasoning; 1 tsp. packed light brown sugar; 1/2 tsp. black pepper; 1 lb. raw mixed nuts, such as walnuts, pecans and almonds (about 3 cups)

Grab a handful while you're decorating the tree!

By Ree DrummondPublished: Nov 15, 2025

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pioneer woman smoky mixed nuts with crispy chickpeas

kate sears

Yields:

4 c.

Prep Time:

20 mins

Total Time:

1 hr 10 mins

If there’s one thing I can’t resist during the holidays—or honestly, any time of year—it’s a big bowl of something crunchy, smoky, and a little bit spicy. These smoky mixed nuts with crispy chickpeas check every box and then some! They’re packed with bold, savory flavor thanks to chipotle chile powder, smoked paprika, and a touch of brown sugar for sweetness. The roasted chickpeas add an irresistible crunch that keeps you coming back for handful after handful.

I love whipping up a batch of these for a Christmas party appetizer, as a homemade gift, or for game-day snacking—they make the perfect nibble alongside a cold drink or a cozy cocktail. They’re also a fantastic make-ahead recipe: just store them in an airtight container, and they’ll stay crisp and flavorful for days.

Can you make these smoky mixed nuts ahead of time?

Yes! Once they've cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They'll stay crunchy and flavorful, making them a great make-ahead snack for the holidays or parties.

Can you make these mixed nuts less spicy?

Of course! Just cut the chipotle chile powder in half or skip it altogether for a milder version that still tastes amazing.

Are these smoky mixed nuts good for gifting?

Yes! Package them in a mason jar or festive tin for a homemade holiday gift everyone will love. They’re a thoughtful, delicious snack that travels well.

Love this recipe? Try one of these next!

Christmas Chex Mix
Candied Pecans
Mercantile Snack Mix

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Ingredients

1
(15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 Tbsp.
olive oil
2 tsp.
kosher salt
1 tsp.
chipotle chile powder
1 tsp.
ground cumin
1 tsp.
garlic powder
1 tsp.
smoked paprika
1 tsp.
poultry seasoning
1 tsp.
packed light brown sugar
1/2 tsp.
black pepper
1 lb.
raw mixed nuts, such as walnuts, pecans and almonds (about 3 cups)

Directions

1. Step 1Preheat the oven to 375˚. Spread the chickpeas on a clean kitchen towel and gently rub them dry, loosening and discarding the skins as you go until most are removed.
2. Step 2Transfer the chickpeas to a baking sheet and toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil to evenly coat. Roast until the chickpeas begin to dry out and crisp, 30 to 35 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through.
3. Step 3Reduce the oven temperature to 325˚. Whisk together the salt, chile powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, poultry seasoning, brown sugar and pepper in a large bowl. Add the nuts, roasted chickpeas and the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and toss to coat.
4. Step 4Spread the nuts and chickpeas in an even layer on the same baking sheet. Bake until the nuts are fragrant and the chickpeas are crispy, 15 to 20 minutes.