There is something irresistible about homemade candied pecans. Perfectly crisp, lightly caramelized and finished with just the right touch of sweetness and gentle spice, they have a way of disappearing almost as quickly as they come out of the oven.
While I love adding these sweet and spicy pecans to salads, they are just as wonderful enjoyed by the handful, sprinkled over yogurt, served on a charcuterie board or packaged as a thoughtful homemade gift. They’re quick to make, beautifully versatile and always a favourite with family and friends.
Ingredients
The ingredients for this recipe are simple:
- 1/2 cup of confectioners sugar
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 4 tsp water
- 2 cups pecans
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350 F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the confectioners sugar, salt, and cayenne pepper. Make sure that all ingredients are well combined.
Add water and stir until all lumps disappear and all dry ingredients are dissolved.
Add the pecans to the mixture and stir until the pecans are thoroughly coated.
Spread the pecans as a single layer on the parchment paper. Then scrape the bowl and drizzle any remaining mixture over the pecans.
Bake for 12 minutes until the pecans are carmelized.
Slip the parchment paper off of the cookie sheet and onto the countertop until they are completely cooled. If they are sticky this means that they are not finished baking so put them back in the oven for a couple of minutes.
Once they are cool, break any clumps apart and store them in an airtight container.
Now for the challenge…
I dare you to only be able eat one!
These pecans are so delicious, they are addictive.
Sweet and Spicy Pecans
Equipment
- 1 Bowl
- 1 Measuring cups
- 1 Measuring spoons
- 1 Cookie sheet
- 1 Parchment paper
- 1 Spoon
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Confectioners sugar
- 3/4 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Cayenne pepper
- 4 tsp Water
- 2 cups Pecans
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- Line baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, sift together confectioners sugar, salt, cayenne pepper. Stir until thoroughly mixed.
- Add water and stir until all is dissolved and there are no lumps.
- Add the pecans to the mixture and stir until all pecans are thoroughly coated.
- Spread the pecans out on the parchment paper in a single layer. Scrape out the rest of the coating and drizzle over the pecans.
- Bake for 12 minutes or until the pecans are caramelized.
- Slip the parchment paper off of the baking sheet and place on the countertop to completely cool. If they are sticky, that means they are under cooked and you should put them back in the oven for a few more minutes.
- Once they are completely cool, break apart any clumps and store in an air tight container.
In closing…
These sweet and spicy candied pecans are one of those simple recipes you’ll find yourself making again and again. They’re easy enough for everyday snacking yet elegant enough to serve at holiday gatherings or dinner parties.
Keep a batch on hand to add to salads, cheese boards or desserts or simply enjoy them straight from the jar. However you serve them, I hope they become a favourite in your kitchen, just as they have in mine.
If you are looking for a different sweet treat, be sure to try this pretty yet delicious strawberry shortcake (just click here).
Thank you!
Thank you for staying until the end. I would love to hear from you so please leave a comment below.
