Dairy and Gluten Free Cocoa Spiced Nuts

I can't remember where this cocoa spiced nut recipe came from which is sad since it is a fantastic spin on spiced nuts!  I have tweaked it over the years making it dairy free and gluten free along with less spicy or more spicy depending on my mood.  I hope that you try these as they are a great twist on a classic.

Dairy & Gluten Free Cocoa Spiced Nuts

2 cups pecans

2 cups almonds

3 tbs sugar

1 tbs cocoa powder

1 tbs kosher salt

3/4 tsp chipotle chile powder

1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

1/4 tsp ground ginger

1/4 tsp ground allspice

1/2 tsp smoked paprika

3 tbs melted vegan buttery alternative

Preheat oven to 200 F.

Place the nuts on a lined cookie sheet.

Toast 10 to 15 minutes or until the nuts are fragrant.

In a bowl combine the buttery alternative, cocoa powder, sugar and spices.

Toss the nuts with the spice mixture.

Spread the coated nuts back out on the cookie sheet.

Bake for 5 to 10 minutes or until the nuts are slightly dried.

Allow to cook fully before storing in an airtight container.