Honey Roasted Cashews – The Ultimate Sweet & Savory Snack Guide

When it comes to irresistible snacks, honey roasted cashews top the list. Whether you’re searching for a quick energy boost, planning the perfect charcuterie board, or craving something that satisfies both sweet and salty, this nutty delight delivers. In this guide, we’ll take a close look at what makes honey roasted cashews so special—from their nutritional value to homemade recipes and dietary tips.

We’ll answer common questions like “Are honey roasted cashews healthy?” and “How much sugar do they really contain?” Plus, we’ll walk you through how to make them at home and explore the best store-bought brands. Don’t miss our comparison of different pairing options and dietary tweaks, like low-sugar or vegan versions.

Looking for inspiration? Try our guide on Pistachio Butter to explore more nut-based recipes that match your healthy cravings.

What Are Honey Roasted Cashews?

The origin and popularity of honey roasted cashews

Honey roasted cashews are a beloved variation of the classic cashew nut. While cashews themselves hail from the tropical climates of Brazil and India, the honey-roasted version became popular in the United States during the snack-food boom of the 1980s. Combining protein-packed cashews with a light coating of honey and sometimes a touch of salt, this snack quickly won hearts for its crave-worthy flavor and satisfying crunch.

Today, they’re found in everything from vending machines to gourmet gift baskets. You’ll often spot them in trail mixes, party snacks, and premium snack packs. Their sweet glaze and rich texture make them both an indulgent treat and a smart snack when consumed in moderation.

Differences between plain, salted, and honey roasted cashews

Not all cashews are created equal. Let’s break down the differences:

Type of Cashew	Flavor Profile	Additives	Popular Uses
Raw Cashews	Mild, buttery	None	Cooking, vegan cheese, smoothies
Salted Roasted Cashews	Savory, nutty	Oil, salt	Snacking, bar mixes
Honey Roasted Cashews	Sweet, slightly salty	Honey, sugar, salt, oil	Snacks, trail mix, desserts

Honey roasted cashews stand apart because of their sweet-savory balance and caramelized crunch. Unlike raw cashews, they’re usually roasted at higher temperatures and glazed in a mix of honey (or corn syrup), sugar, and sometimes a dash of salt or vanilla for flavor.

Compared to salted cashews, honey roasted versions contain added sugars and slightly more calories. However, they’re often more satisfying in small portions, which may prevent overeating when you’re mindful.

Check out our guide on Delicious Dill Pickle Sandwiches to create a contrasting tangy snack board using both sweet and sour elements like cashews and pickles.

Nutritional Value of Honey Roasted Cashews

Macro and micronutrients in honey roasted cashews

When you’re craving a snack that tastes indulgent but still offers nutritional benefits, honey roasted cashews can strike that balance—if you keep portions in check. Here’s what you’ll typically find in a 1-ounce (28g) serving of store-bought honey roasted cashews:

Nutrient	Amount per 1 oz
Calories	~160–180 kcal
Protein	4–5 grams
Total Fat	13–14 grams
Saturated Fat	2.5 grams
Carbohydrates	9–12 grams
Sugars	4–8 grams
Fiber	~1 gram
Sodium	100–150 mg
Magnesium	80 mg (20% DV)
Iron	1.9 mg (10% DV)
Zinc	1.6 mg (15% DV)

Learn more about energizing your day with naturally sweet options like this Homemade Energy Drink Recipe that pairs well with snacks like cashews.

Comparing honey roasted cashews with raw cashews

Let’s stack honey roasted cashews against raw ones to see the nutritional trade-offs.

Nutrient	Honey Roasted (28g)	Raw Cashews (28g)
Calories	170–180 kcal	157 kcal
Sugars	4–8 g	<1 g
Sodium	100–150 mg	0 mg
Fiber	1 g	0.9 g
Added Oils	Often present	None

What does this mean for you?
If you’re watching your sugar or sodium intake, raw cashews are the better choice. However, if you need a quick energy-boosting treat, honey roasted cashews offer more flavor with the same healthy fat base. Just watch the portion size—1 ounce is a safe snack-sized serving.

For a lighter, equally satisfying option, check out our Vegan Yum Yum Sauce Recipe, a great dip to pair with plain cashews or veggie sticks when avoiding sugar.

Health Benefits and Risks

Are honey roasted cashews healthy?

The short answer? Yes, but in moderation. Honey roasted cashews combine the health benefits of cashews with the flavorful appeal of a sweet glaze. Cashews on their own are full of nutrients that support brain function, heart health, and metabolism. They’re especially rich in:

• Monounsaturated fats: Good fats that help reduce LDL (bad cholesterol)
• Magnesium: Crucial for nerve and muscle function
• Copper and zinc: Key for immune support
• Plant-based protein: Great for energy and satiety

That said, the “honey roasted” part introduces added sugars and oils, which can nudge these nuts closer to treat territory than health food. This doesn’t mean they’re bad—just better enjoyed in small amounts.

Benefit	Why it Matters
Healthy fats	Heart-protective and support cholesterol balance
Magnesium and minerals	Help with energy, sleep, and blood pressure
Protein + fat combo	Keeps you fuller longer than sugary snacks
Portable energy	Great for hiking, gym bags, or mid-day snack cravings

Can people with high blood pressure or diabetes eat them?

This is where things get more nuanced.

For high blood pressure:
Cashews are naturally low in sodium, but store-bought honey roasted versions can include 100–200mg of sodium per serving. That’s a red flag if you’re on a low-sodium diet. However, magnesium in cashews helps relax blood vessels and regulate blood pressure, offering a silver lining.

• Tip: Opt for low-sodium or homemade honey roasted cashews to limit your salt intake.

For diabetics:
The glycemic index of cashews is relatively low, which is good. But the added sugar in honey roasted versions can spike blood sugar levels, depending on the quantity and recipe.

Diabetic Consideration	Honey Roasted Cashews
Sugar Content	Moderate to high depending on brand
Portion Control	1 oz max recommended
Safer Option	Homemade version with sugar substitutes

Discover great ideas like Peach Blueberry Cobbler if you’re craving something sweet but want to control sugar more closely.

How to Make Honey Roasted Cashews at Home

Making honey roasted cashews at home is not only simple—it gives you full control over the ingredients, especially sugar and sodium levels. Homemade versions can be healthier, cheaper, and fresher than store-bought snacks.

Let’s walk you through the entire process, from ingredients to storage.

Ingredients needed for DIY honey roasted cashews

Here’s what you’ll need to make about 2 cups (roughly 4–6 servings):

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Raw cashews	2 cups	Unsalted preferred
Honey	2–3 tablespoons	Local honey adds better flavor
Coconut oil or butter	1 tablespoon	Helps with coating and roasting
Sea salt	½ teaspoon	Optional, adjust to taste
Vanilla extract (optional)	½ teaspoon	Adds a rich, warm flavor
Cinnamon or cayenne (optional)	¼ teaspoon	For added spice or depth

Want a healthier variation? You can substitute honey with maple syrup, agave, or even sugar-free honey.

Step-by-step recipe for oven or stovetop

Oven Method (Recommended for Even Roasting)

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Warm honey mixture: In a saucepan over low heat, mix the honey, oil (or butter), salt, and any optional flavorings until just melted and combined.
3. Coat the cashews: Remove from heat and stir in the cashews, mixing until evenly coated.
4. Spread and roast: Lay the cashews out on the baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 12–15 minutes, stirring halfway to ensure even roasting.
6. Cool: Once golden and fragrant, remove from the oven and let cool. The coating will harden as they cool.

Stovetop Method (Quick Option)

1. Heat honey and oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat.
2. Add cashews and stir constantly for 5–7 minutes until they are golden and glazed.
3. Transfer to parchment paper and cool.

Looking for inspiration? Try our Easy Edamame Recipes as a savory, healthy contrast to these sweet roasted nuts.

Storage and shelf life tips

To keep your homemade honey roasted cashews fresh and crunchy:

• Cool completely before storing to avoid condensation
• Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 10 days to maintain freshness.
• For longer shelf life, keep them in the fridge (up to 3 weeks)
• Freeze them in batches for up to 3 months in airtight bags

Storage Option	Shelf Life
Room Temperature	7–10 days
Refrigerated	2–3 weeks
Freezer	Up to 3 months

Taste, Texture, and Culinary Appeal

What do honey roasted cashews taste like?

If you’ve never tried honey roasted cashews, imagine the perfect blend of buttery richness, mellow sweetness, and a subtle touch of salt. Their flavor profile is bold, yet balanced, offering a delightful contrast between roasted nutty depth and a light sugary glaze.

Here’s how people describe them:

• Sweet but not overpowering
• Crunchy on the outside, creamy on the inside
• Slight salted caramel vibes with a nutty twist
• A snack that “melts then crunches”

The honey glaze isn’t sticky—it hardens slightly, creating a crackly, caramel-like coating that clings to each cashew. It’s this perfect mix of sweet, salty, and roasted that makes them so addictive.

Compared to plain cashews, these are more indulgent, and they’re often described as a “dessert nut” because they satisfy sweet cravings without needing candy or cookies.

Sweetness vs. saltiness balance

The beauty of honey roasted cashews lies in their balance. The sweetness comes from honey and a touch of sugar, while the salt cuts through that sweetness to keep your palate engaged.

Flavor Element	Source	Impact
Sweet	Honey, sugar	Provides glaze and caramelized edge
Savory	Sea salt or kosher salt	Enhances natural nutty flavor
Rich/Nutty	Roasted cashew oils	Gives a satisfying buttery mouthfeel

Want to tweak the balance? If making them at home, try adding:

• A pinch of cinnamon or chili for warmth
• Maple syrup for a deeper sweetness
• Smoked sea salt for a savory twist

Popular ways to enjoy them (snack, salad topper, dessert inclusion)

Honey roasted cashews are more than just a snack from a bag. Here’s how people are getting creative:

As a stand-alone snack

• On-the-go energy boost
• Post-workout protein bite
• Kid-friendly snack alternative to candy

On a charcuterie board

They pair beautifully with sharp cheeses like aged cheddar or creamy brie. Throw them in with fresh fruit and cured meats for contrast.

Toppings & mix-ins

Use Case	How to Use
Salads	Add crunch to spinach or kale salads
Granola & trail mix	Combine with dark chocolate and dried cherries
Baked goods	Mix into muffins, banana bread, or cookies
Yogurt bowls	Sprinkle on Greek yogurt for crunch and protein

Check out our Vegan Yum Yum Sauce Recipe for a delicious dip idea to pair with unsweetened cashews or to offset the sweetness of honey roasted ones.

Honey Roasted Cashews and Sugar Content

How much sugar is in honey roasted cashews?

The sweetness that makes honey roasted cashews so appealing also raises concerns about sugar intake. Store-bought versions often contain more sugar than you might expect.

Let’s look at an average breakdown per 1-ounce (28g) serving:

Brand	Total Sugar	Added Sugar
Planters	6 grams	5 grams
Kirkland Signature	7 grams	6 grams
Homemade (light glaze)	3–4 grams	2–3 grams

Most commercial brands use a mix of honey and sugar (sometimes corn syrup) to achieve that golden crunch. As a result, each handful can contain up to 2 teaspoons of sugar. If you’re eating them as a daily snack, that adds up fast.

But the good news? You can still enjoy this delicious snack without overdoing the sugar.

Low-sugar recipe options and substitutions

Want to enjoy honey roasted cashews without the sugar overload? Here are smart ways to tweak the recipe or shop wisely.

1. Make your own with less sugar

Cut the honey down by half or use sugar-free honey substitutes like:

• Allulose syrup
• Monk fruit sweeteners
• Stevia-honey blends

2. Use spices to boost flavor naturally

Instead of relying on sugar alone, spice things up:

• Add cinnamon for a warm, dessert-like flavor
• Use cayenne or paprika for a sweet-spicy twist
• Try rosemary and vanilla for a more gourmet edge

3. Bake instead of pan-frying

Oven roasting at low heat (around 300–325°F) helps the honey caramelize without needing added sugar. The natural sugars in honey are enough when baked slowly.

Sugar Swap	Benefit
Monk fruit + honey mix	Lower glycemic index, similar taste
Cinnamon & vanilla	Boost flavor without sugar
Light honey glaze	Reduces total added sugar by 40–60%

4. Check nutrition labels carefully

When buying store-bought options, choose brands that:

• List “honey” as the first sweetener, not sugar or corn syrup
• Have under 5g of sugar per serving
• Use minimal or no artificial additives

Don’t miss our Homemade Energy Drink Recipe for a naturally sweet drink pairing that won’t spike your sugar intake.

Cashews and Dietary Considerations

Can diabetics eat honey roasted cashews?

This is one of the most frequently asked questions—and for good reason. Cashews on their own are diabetic-friendly, thanks to their low glycemic index and fiber content. But once honey and sugar enter the picture, it gets tricky.

What to consider for diabetic diets:

Nutrient Factor	Impact on Blood Sugar
Natural cashew carbs	Minimal glycemic impact
Added sugars (honey/glaze)	Can cause glucose spikes
Portion size	Critical—limit to 1 oz (about 16–18 nuts)
Pairing with protein/fiber	Helps stabilize blood sugar

So, can diabetics eat honey roasted cashews?
Yes—but only in small portions and ideally paired with high-fiber or protein-rich foods to minimize spikes. Better yet, make your own using a sugar-free or low-sugar glaze.

Gluten-free, vegan, and keto-friendly variations

Let’s break down how honey roasted cashews align with popular diets:

1. Are honey roasted cashews gluten-free?

Yes, cashews are naturally gluten-free. However, store-bought versions may be cross-contaminated during processing or contain additives like maltodextrin, which can trigger gluten sensitivities.

Pro tip: Always choose certified gluten-free brands or make them at home to stay safe.

2. Are honey roasted cashews vegan?

Not always. Although honey is natural, it’s not considered vegan by strict standards. Most vegans avoid it due to ethical concerns about bee farming.

Vegan alternatives:

• Use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey
• Add coconut sugar for extra caramelization
• Skip butter and use coconut oil or avocado oil

Homemade vegan version:

• Raw cashews
• Maple syrup
• Sea salt + cinnamon
• Coconut oil
• Oven-baked for crunch

Looking for inspiration? Try our Pistachio Butter Guide—a perfect plant-based alternative with no added sugars.

3. Are honey roasted cashews keto-friendly?

Unfortunately, not the traditional kind. Most store-bought or homemade recipes include 8–12g net carbs per serving, with 5–7g coming from sugar.

Keto-compatible variation:

• Use monk fruit or erythritol honey substitute
• Roast raw cashews with zero-carb syrup
• Skip starchy coatings like cornstarch or flour

Diet	Compatible with Honey Roasted Cashews?	Modification Needed?
Vegan	❌ (because of honey)	✅ Use maple/agave instead
Gluten-Free	✅ Usually safe	⚠️ Check for contamination
Keto	❌ Too high in sugar	✅ Use sugar-free sweeteners
Diabetic	⚠️ Caution with sugar	✅ Small portions, low sugar

Whether you’re vegan, gluten-intolerant, or managing your blood sugar, honey roasted cashews can still be part of your diet—with just a little tweaking.

Best Store-Bought Honey Roasted Cashew Brands

Not everyone has time to roast their own nuts—and that’s okay. There are plenty of store-bought honey roasted cashew brands that balance flavor, quality, and price. Whether you’re shopping at Walmart, Amazon, or your local grocery store, here are the top picks based on taste, ingredients, and customer reviews.

Top-rated brands to try in the US market

We evaluated these brands on taste, texture, ingredients, and value:

Brand	Sugar (per oz)	Flavor Profile	Price (avg)	Best For
Planters	6g	Classic sweet/salty	$6.98 / 18 oz	Widely available, affordable
Member’s Mark (Sam’s Club)	7g	Rich glaze, buttery	$8.88 / 24 oz	Bulk buy, family snacking
Kirkland Signature	6g	Mildly sweet, less salty	$14.99 / 40 oz	Costco members, large families
Emerald	5g	Smaller size, crunchy	$3.99 / 5 oz	On-the-go snacking
Trader Joe’s	4g	Light honey, natural salt	$7.99 / 16 oz	More natural, less processed

Best flavor balance: Planters

Their cashews have a perfect honey-to-salt ratio, with just enough crunch to feel indulgent but not overly sticky or greasy.

Best for health-conscious snacking: Trader Joe’s

Trader Joe’s version has less sugar, fewer ingredients, and a more “homemade” taste without synthetic additives.

Best for portion control: Emerald 100-Calorie Packs

Pre-portioned snack-size pouches are ideal for lunchboxes, travel, or anyone watching sugar intake.

Check out our Delicious Dill Pickle Sandwich to pair with lightly sweetened cashews for an unforgettable sweet-and-sour snack board.

Price comparison and where to buy

Retailer	Brand	Price Range
Amazon	Planters, Kirkland	$8–$16 (multi-packs)
Walmart	Planters, Great Value	$5–$10
Sam’s Club	Member’s Mark	$8–$9 (bulk)
Trader Joe’s	In-house brand	$7–$8
Target	Good & Gather	$6–$7

Buying tips:

• Always read the nutrition label—some brands use corn syrup instead of honey.
• Choose smaller bags if you’re prone to snacking too much in one sitting.
• Look for brands that roast with coconut oil or no added oils for a healthier option.

Delicious Pairings and Snack Ideas

Sure, honey roasted cashews taste great by the handful—but why stop there? Their sweet, buttery crunch makes them incredibly versatile. Whether you’re hosting, meal prepping, or just experimenting in the kitchen, these pairing ideas will take your snack game to a whole new level.

Sweet and savory pairings

Combining textures and flavors brings out the best in these golden gems. Here’s how to enjoy them with contrast:

Pairing Item	Why It Works
Sharp cheddar cheese	Saltiness complements the sweet glaze
Green apples or pears	Crisp fruit balances rich, buttery cashews
Dark chocolate chunks	Adds a bittersweet contrast in trail mix or desserts
Dried cranberries	Sweet-tart flavor enhances honey profile
Greek yogurt	Protein-rich and creamy base with sweet crunch

💡 Pro tip: Use them as a topping for acai bowls, chia puddings, or banana nice cream.

Don’t miss our Peach Blueberry Cobbler recipe—honey roasted cashews make a killer topping for warm cobblers and fruit crisps!

Snack board and party platter inspirations

Honey roasted cashews are perfect on a charcuterie or grazing board. Here’s how to build a crowd-pleaser:

The Balanced Snack Board Formula:

• Protein: Hard cheese, prosciutto, hummus
• Fruits: Grapes, figs, apple slices
• Crunch: Crackers, veggie chips, honey roasted cashews
• Dips: Vegan sauce, spicy mustard
• Surprise element: Chocolate-covered espresso beans or candied ginger

For savory contrast, check out our Easy Edamame Recipes and mix them with cashews in a custom trail mix.

Use in granola, trail mix, and baking

Don’t toss them into your mouth too fast—these nuts shine in recipes too.

Creative ways to use honey roasted cashews:

• Trail Mix: Mix with raisins, almonds, pumpkin seeds, and pretzels
• Cookies or blondies: Replace plain nuts with chopped honey cashews
• Breakfast bowls: Sprinkle on oatmeal, overnight oats, or smoothie bowls
• Baking crusts: Blend into graham cracker crusts for a nutty twist
• Energy bites: Pulse with dates and oats in a food processor

Recipe Type	Why Add Cashews?
Muffins or banana bread	Adds crunch and caramel flavor
Granola bars	Boosts protein and makes bars more filling
Ice cream or frozen yogurt	Offers a crunchy, sweet-salty topping

Honey roasted cashews bring elevated flavor to everyday recipes. Keep a jar on the counter and watch your creativity spark.

Conclusion: Should You Keep Honey Roasted Cashews in Your Pantry?

Honey roasted cashews are a fantastic sweet-savory snack, perfect for parties, on-the-go energy, or adding crunch to your meals. They’re nutrient-dense, loaded with flavor, and easy to make at home. However, it’s important to be mindful of added sugars and sodium, especially if you’re watching your health.

When eaten in smart portions or made with better ingredients, honey roasted cashews can be a pantry staple that satisfies both your cravings and nutritional needs.

Learn more about other nutritious and indulgent ideas like our Pistachio Butter Guide to mix up your snack game.

FAQs