Are you looking for a delicious and easy snack that's both sweet and spicy? Look no further! These sweet and spicy pecans are the perfect treat for movie nights, parties, or simply satisfying that afternoon craving. This homemade recipe is surprisingly simple, requiring minimal ingredients and time, making it ideal for even the busiest cooks. Prepare to be amazed by how easily you can elevate ordinary pecans into an extraordinary snack.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups pecan halves
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This simple step prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
Prepare the Pecan Mixture:
- In a medium bowl, combine the pecan halves, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cayenne pepper, cinnamon, and salt. Mix thoroughly until all the pecans are evenly coated with the sugar and spice mixture. Make sure to get into every nook and cranny for optimal flavor distribution!
Bake to Perfection:
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Drizzle the melted butter over the pecan mixture and toss gently to coat. Don't be shy with the butter; it adds richness and helps the spices adhere to the pecans.
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Spread the pecans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
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Bake for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the pecans are fragrant and toasted to a beautiful golden brown. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes to prevent burning.
Cool and Enjoy:
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Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the pecans cool completely on the sheet. This allows the sugars to set and prevents them from becoming sticky.
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Once cooled, store your sweet and spicy pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Cooking Tips for Sweet Success:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. Start with less and add more if you prefer a spicier snack. For a milder version, try using chili powder instead.
- Nut Variety: Feel free to experiment with other nuts like walnuts, almonds, or cashews. The recipe will adapt well to different nut types.
- Sweetness Adjustment: If you prefer a less sweet snack, reduce the amount of granulated and brown sugar slightly.
- Adding Flavor: Enhance the flavor profile by adding a pinch of freshly ground black pepper or a dash of your favorite extract like vanilla or almond.
Variations:
- Chocolate Sweet and Spicy Pecans: Add 1/4 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the mixture before baking for an extra decadent treat.
- Garlic Sweet and Spicy Pecans: Add a teaspoon of garlic powder to the spice mix for a savory twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on a serving size of approximately 1/4 cup and may vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used. It's always recommended to use a nutrition calculator for precise values based on your exact ingredients.
- Calories: Approximately 200
- Fat: Approximately 18g
- Protein: Approximately 3g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10g
- Sugar: Approximately 7g
These sweet and spicy pecans are a fantastic addition to your healthy meal repertoire, making for a quick and delicious snack or a delightful addition to salads, yogurt, or ice cream. Enjoy!