How to Toast Nuts and Seeds
Toast nuts and seeds in a dry skillet over medium-low heat or in a 350°F oven, shaking or stirring frequently until they turn golden brown and release a distinct, fragrant aroma. The process is complete the moment the color shifts; pull them off the heat immediately to prevent carryover burning.
Control the heat, control the outcome.
Nuts are high in oil and will move from toasted to scorched in seconds. Keep your eyes on the pan and never walk away from the stove.
- Heavy-bottomed stainless steel or cast iron skillet
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Baking sheet
What goes in.
- 1 cupRaw nuts or seeds (walnuts, pecans, almonds, pumpkin seeds, or sesame seeds)
Trust your nose
Your sense of smell is more accurate than a timer. As soon as you catch the scent of the nut filling the room, it is seconds away from being done.
The method.
Prepare the surface
Place the nuts in a single layer in a cold, dry skillet. Do not add oil or butter; the nuts will release their own.
Apply heat
Set the burner to medium-low. If you are using a large batch, spread them on a rimmed baking sheet and place in an oven preheated to 350°F.
Agitate
Stir the nuts with a wooden spoon every 60 seconds. For the oven method, shake the tray back and forth to redistribute.
Remove immediately
Transfer the nuts to a cool plate or bowl the second they reach a golden brown shade. If left in the hot pan, they will continue to darken and eventually turn bitter.
Other turns to take.
Spiced
Toss the nuts with a teaspoon of melted butter and a pinch of salt or spices immediately after pulling them off the heat.
When it doesn't go to plan.
Always chop large nuts like walnuts or pecans before toasting to ensure even browning.
Small seeds like sesame or pine nuts toast faster than dense nuts; keep the heat lower and the stirring constant.
If toasting different types of nuts together, start the larger ones first, then add the smaller ones halfway through.
The ones that keep coming up.
Can I toast nuts in the microwave?
It is not recommended. The microwave heats unevenly and often leaves nuts tasting rubbery rather than crunchy.
How long do toasted nuts stay fresh?
Once cooled, they can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, keep them in the freezer.
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