Crispy Rosemary Chestnuts

Name: Crispy Rosemary Chestnuts
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 400g cooked and peeled chestnuts; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped; 1/2 tsp sea salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 garlic clove, crushed (optional)

Charlie-Jane
Nov 27
2 min read

Warm, fragrant, and beautifully crisp at the edges — these Crispy Rosemary Chestnuts are the ultimate festive snack. Tossed with olive oil, fresh rosemary, sea salt, and optional garlic, they transform into an aromatic, golden tray of pure winter comfort.

Tray of golden roasted chestnuts sprinkled with rosemary and sea salt, fresh out of the oven.

Perfect for Christmas gatherings, holiday grazing boards, or cosy nights in, these chestnuts are naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and incredibly easy to prepare. Their soft, tender centres contrast with their crispy exterior, making them an irresistible nibble that feels both rustic and elegant.

Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 25 minutes Total Time: 35 minutes Servings: 4

Ingredients

400g cooked and peeled chestnuts
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
½ tsp sea salt
¼ tsp black pepper
1 garlic clove, crushed (optional)

Directions

Preheat oven to 200°C (180°C fan) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Place the cooked chestnuts in a mixing bowl and toss with olive oil, rosemary, salt, pepper, and garlic (if using).
Spread the chestnuts out on the tray in a single layer to ensure even roasting.
Roast for 20–25 minutes, shaking the tray halfway through, until the chestnuts are golden and crispy on the outside.
Taste and adjust seasoning before serving warm.

Whether you serve them as a party snack, a side dish, or even a topping for winter salads and soups, they bring a touch of warmth and herbal aroma to any festive spread.

If you loved this, try my Banana Bread or Cranberry Orange Bliss Bars for another yummy breakfast idea.

See all Snacks & Appetisers

Close-up shot of crispy chestnuts showing caramelised edges and flecks of fresh rosemary.

What Makes These Crispy Rosemary Chestnuts Special

Chestnuts are a classic winter favourite, but roasting them with rosemary elevates them into something truly special. The herb brings a fragrant, woodsy aroma that pairs perfectly with the chestnuts’ natural sweetness, while the olive oil helps create that delicious crispy exterior.

They're naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, require zero complicated steps, and yet feel festive and indulgent — exactly the kind of effortless winter recipe that suits busy households and Christmas entertaining.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these rosemary chestnuts:

as a warm festive snack
on holiday charcuterie or grazing boards
alongside roasted meats or plant-based roasts
sprinkled on winter salads for crunch
on top of creamy soups (especially parsnip or butternut squash)
with a dairy-free cream cheese or herb dip for party platters

They’re especially lovely served straight from the oven with a glass of mulled wine.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven at 180°C for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness.
Freezing is not ideal due to texture changes, but reheating from chilled works perfectly.