Sweet and Spicy Pecans Recipe
Sweet and Spicy Pecans are a deliciously toasted snack combining the warmth of cinnamon and cumin with a kick of cayenne pepper, balanced by the sweetness of brown sugar, orange juice, and maple syrup. Perfectly coated and toasted in butter, these pecans make an irresistible treat or topping for salads and desserts.
- Author: Isabella
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: About 4 cups 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Pecans and Spices
- 16 ounces pecan halves (about 4 cups)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼–½ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (depending on desired heat level)
Sweeteners
- ¼ cup packed light brown sugar
- ¼ cup orange juice
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- Toast Pecans: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. Add the pecan halves and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring regularly until the edges begin to darken and the pecans emit a toasty aroma.
- Add Spices: Sprinkle in the salt, ground cinnamon, ground cumin, and cayenne pepper. Stir thoroughly to coat the pecans evenly with the spice mixture.
- Incorporate Sweeteners: Pour in the brown sugar, orange juice, and maple syrup. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves and the mixture starts to simmer. Continue cooking for an additional 3-5 minutes, stirring regularly, until the sugar mixture thickens and coats every pecan.
- Cool Pecans: Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the coated pecans to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spread them out with a fork to prevent clumping. Let them come to room temperature before storing.
- Store: Keep the cooled pecans in an airtight container stored in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Adjust the cayenne pepper quantity to control the heat level to your preference.
- To ensure even coating, stir frequently during cooking.
- Using fresh orange juice enhances the flavor; bottled juice can be used but may alter sweetness.
- Store pecans at room temperature for up to two weeks.
- These pecans make a great topping for salads, oatmeal, or desserts.
Keywords: sweet and spicy pecans, candied pecans, spiced nuts, toasted pecans, snack recipe, maple syrup pecans