Maple Glazed Cocktail Peanuts With Bacon (Almonds, Cashews Or Macadamias)

Sweet and savory cocktail peanuts.

Ingredients:
5 slices natural bacon (3 ounces)
1/4 teaspoon ground thyme
1 teaspoon sea salt
3/4 teaspoon Old Bay Seasoning
1/4 - 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
3 cups unsalted roasted peanuts (1 pound)
1/2 cup pure maple syrup
1 tablespoon yellow mustard

Method:
Preheat oven to 325*. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 
Cook the bacon until crisp. Drain on paper towels and then finely chop. 
In a medium bowl, mix the thyme, salt, Old Bay and cayenne pepper. Add the peanuts and bacon. Stir to mix. Whisk together the syrup and mustard. Add to the nuts and stir until all of the nuts are well coated. 
Spread evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for about 20 - 25 minutes, stirring once, until the maple syrup has thickened. 
Allow to cool completely, stirring frequently, to break up any large clumps. 
Makes 3 cups. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Serve at room temperature.

Note: 
Almonds, cashews or macadamias may be substituted for the peanuts.
My Auntie purchased a book on cocktail fare and asked me if I would make this recipe. I made a few changes to use ingredients that I had on hand and the end result turned out great!