I’m getting into the Christmas spirit this week since we finally got our Christmas tree up and decorated. I love the smell of the fresh pine and having lights to look at always puts me in a better mood. So I am getting into the holiday spirit in the kitchen as well which is what inspired me to make this recipe.
If there is one food constantly requested by my family and friends during the holidays it is these sweet and spicy pecans. I can never make enough and they are gone before I can even get them put away. The spiciness that follows the sweetness provides a kick that keeps you going back for more. These really are the perfect snack for around the holidays and make a great appetizer for cocktail hour.
I was originally inspired to make these spiced pecans after I tried some that one of my good friend’s mother made years ago. This is the best replication I have found of the recipe and it is a keeper. I guarantee if you make these people will be begging you for more!
What I especially like about making these nuts is that they make a perfect gift to give to a friend or to bring as a hostess gift to a party. They pack up nicely in mason jars and simply need a bow or a ribbon to make them into a perfect package.
Since making these about an hour ago I can tell you already a cup of them are gone! I better make some more soon and if you find the same problem this recipe can easily be doubled.
Enjoy!
Notes
This recipe does have a kick to it so if you're nervous about the spiciness just add less cayenne pepper.
Ingredients
- 2 cups pecan halves
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¾ teaspoons cayenne pepper
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 ½ tablespoons maple syrup
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and grease with nonstick cooking spray.
- Add pecan halves onto baking sheet in an even layer. Bake in oven for 10 minutes to toast pecans, stirring halfway through to ensure nuts do not burn.
- Meanwhile, in a medium microwave safe bowl, melt butter. Next, add brown sugar, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, and maple syrup to the melted butter. Mix together.
- Add toasted nuts to the butter mixture. Stir to completely coat the pecans. Add pecans back to baking sheet, spreading them out in an even layer and bake for an additional 10 minutes, once again stirring pecans halfway through.
- Remove pecans from oven and let cool. Break up pecans that are stuck together and eat immediately or store in an airtight container.
Can I order some of those? I have had them once and they are out of this world.
I might just be able to send you some
The best pecans come from the Florida Panhandle region. I have a connection to a large supply.
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