Some people think it’s cool to knock Christmas, but not us – we love it. Spending time with friends and family, the gifts (…both giving and, let’s be honest, receiving) and all that food! What’s not to love? However, sometimes the food can get a bit too much and you may wonder if you’ll ever be able to get up from the sofa ever again. Help is at hand in the festive form of almonds.

Packed with natural goodness, high in fibre and a source of natural protein, almonds will help you stay strong throughout the hectic festive period. What’s more, these clever little nuts are packed with magnesium, which helps reduce tiredness and fatigue, helping you fully enjoy the party season.

This Christmas, we’ve spiced things up with a recipe that combines your favourite festive flavours, including cinnamon, brandy, honey, and citrus, with that satisfying crunch. We believe balanced snacking is key, and giving ourselves permission to take part in what we enjoy can help us physically and psychologically. So, whether you’re hankering for a sweet, spicy or savoury snack this Christmas, mince pie flavoured almonds are the answer.

For more recipes visit almonds.co.uk

Serves: 6 -8

Prep/cook time: 10 minutes

INGREDIENTS

200g almonds

125g dried mixed fruit (such as raisins, currants, sultanas, cranberries)

50g candied lemon and orange peel, chopped

1 tbsp brandy or orange juice

Finely grated zest and juice 1 orange

2 tsp ground mixed spice

½ tsp ground cinnamon

1 tbsp honey

METHOD

1. Place the dried fruit and mixed peel in a bowl and pour over the brandy. Stir until the fruit is completely coated and leave to one side to allow the flavour to develop.

2. If you’re opting against a boozy festive treat, substitute the brandy for orange juice for a zesty natural sweetness.

3. Place the orange zest, juice, spices, and honey in a large non-stick frying pan, bring to the boil, stirring continuously, then reduce the heat and simmer for 2 minutes.

4. Add the almonds and cook for 1 minute, stirring continuously until the nuts are coated in the spices and the liquid has reduced.

5. Pour the warm nuts over the fruit you have set aside, stir well and allow to cool.

6. Store extra servings in an airtight container to enjoy when the festive food cravings kick-in.

Read more: Meet nature’s guilt-free treat with a stellar fan club