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Sweet and spicy candied pecans with brown sugar and cayenne pepper

Sweet and Spicy Candied Pecans

These Sweet and Spicy Candied Pecans are easy to make with a few simple ingredients, providing a delicious snack that's both sweet and mildly spicy.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 cups pecan halves Fresh pecan halves are preferred.
  • 1 large egg white Helps coating cling and bake crisp.
  • 1 cup sugar White sugar is classic; brown sugar adds caramel notes.
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon Adds warmth to the mix.
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne or chili powder Adjust based on desired spiciness.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt Enhances flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Optional; adds a delightful aroma.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. Whip the egg white until foamy, not stiff, to ensure it spreads easily.
  3. Toss the pecans in the egg white until they are well coated.
  4. In a separate bowl, mix together the sugar, cinnamon, salt, and cayenne/chili powder. Toss the pecans in this mixture until evenly coated.
  5. Spread the coated pecans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Baking
  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking.
  2. Remove from the oven and allow the pecans to cool completely before storing.

Notes

For gifts, package in an airtight container. They can last 1-2 weeks at room temperature and 2-3 months in the freezer. Use different spices or nuts to experiment with flavor.