Here is a easy replacement for honey-roasted almonds. These are great to keep on hand for cocktail parties, appetizers, friends who just drop by, or even for a quick snack.  If you want to add some heat, you can add in some cayenne.  These are so much better than store bought, you will never go back.  Make a batch before your next game viewing party and watch how fast they go. Everyone loves these sweet and salty nuts.

Preptime: 5 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: many handfuls

Ingredients:

2 cups whole almonds, skins on
¼ cup sugar
½ tsp. salt
¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
2 TBL agave
2 TBL water
2 tsp canola oil

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350F.

2. Spread the almonds in a single layer in a shallow ungreased baking pan and bake for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from oven and set aside.

3. In a large bowl, thoroughly mix the sugar, salt, and cayenne if using. Set aside.

4. In a medium saucepan, combine the agave, water and oil.  Bring to a boil over medium heat.

5. Stir in the roasted almonds and continue to cook and stir until all the liquid has been absorbed by the, about 5 minutes.

6. Immediately transfer the nuts to the sugar/salt mixture and toss to completely coat all the nuts.

7. Spread on wax paper and cool.