I let them cool until lukewarm and the bagged them, and they made the occasional cracking noise for 3 hours. I JUST took out the mesquite/cherry wood/garlic salted almonds now and the smoke flavour is extremely unique, VERY present, and totally delicious. I'll report if the smoke gets too intense once bagged, in a couple of days. However, straight out of the smoker, I have never tasted better!