This pretzel nut mix is crunchy, salty, lightly sweet, and full of warm holiday spices. Pecans, pretzels, and a smoky-sweet seasoning are baked until golden and crisp — the perfect party mix or edible gift.

I spotted these adorable tree-shaped pretzels at a specialty supermarket and couldn’t resist grabbing a bag to play with. The first thing that came to mind was a spiced nut mix — something I could keep in a jar for easy, grab-and-go snacking or last-minute entertaining.

From there, I built a blend of nuts with the perfect balance of salty, sweet, and spiced, and it turned out dangerously addictive. I love adding pistachios and cranberries for their pop of colour, plus that mix of chewy and crunchy textures is completely irresistible.

What's in this recipe?

Pecan & pretzel mix

Pretzels (Christmas tree shaped)
I used the cute tree-shaped pretzels because they add such fun character, but regular mini pretzels work perfectly too. Their salty crunch is the backbone of this mix.
Pecans
Pecans bring a rich, buttery flavour that pairs beautifully with warm spices. They toast up gorgeously in the oven. You can easily swap them for walnuts if preferred.
Cashews
Cashews add a creamy, slightly sweet nuttiness that balances the mix. They’re soft enough to absorb flavours well and crisp up nicely. Almonds or peanuts will also work.
Pistachios
Pistachios add incredible flavour and that gorgeous pop of green that makes this mix look extra special. Highly recommended for colour and crunch.
Dried cranberries
Cranberries bring a chewy contrast to the crunchy nuts and pretzels. Their subtle tartness and deep red colour add such a lovely balance and visual pop.

Spice coating

Butter
Butter binds the coating together and gives the nuts that delicious, rich flavour. Use coconut oil for a dairy-free option.

Brown sugar
Brown sugar helps everything caramelise into a crisp, golden coating. It gives a deeper, more satisfying crunch than using liquid sweeteners alone.
Maple syrup
Maple syrup adds a warm, woody sweetness that complements the spices. Honey is a great alternative.
Garlic powder
Garlic powder adds savoury depth and keeps the mix from tasting overly sweet — it’s the secret ingredient that makes each handful addictive.
Smoked paprika
Smoked paprika brings a subtle smokiness that rounds out the sweetness and gives the mix a warm, earthy kick.
Cinnamon
A touch of cinnamon adds gentle warmth without turning the mix into a dessert. Just enough to give a cosy, spiced note.
Onion powder
Onion powder deepens the savoury flavour and helps balance the sweet elements. A little goes a long way.
Cayenne powder
Cayenne adds the slightest hint of heat. Increase for a spicy version, or leave it out if you prefer a mild mix.
Flaky sea salt
Flaky sea salt balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavours. It also adds a light, delicate crunch on top.

Step-by-step photos

Mixing dry ingredients

Mixing wet ingredients

Tossing mixture onto baking tray

Ready to bake!