sugar and spice pecans recipe

sugar and spice pecans recipe

The Best sugar and spice pecans recipe

I am so excited to share with you my family’s favorite recipe for sugar and spice pecans. This classic Southern treat is a staple at any gathering or holiday celebration. The combination of sweet and spicy flavors, along with the crunch of the pecans, is simply irresistible. I first learned how to make these pecans from my mother, who learned from her mother, and now I’m passing on the tradition to my own children and grandchildren.

The process of making these pecans is quite straightforward, but the result is truly magical. You’ll need just a few simple ingredients: pecans, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. The key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors is to use high-quality spices and to not be afraid to experiment with different ratios of sweet and spicy. Once you’ve got the hang of it, you can easily double or triple the recipe to suit your needs.

I like to make a big batch of these pecans and store them in an airtight container for up to two weeks. They’re perfect for snacking on their own or using as a topping for salads or yogurt parfaits. One of the best things about these pecans is that they’re incredibly easy to customize. Want more spice?

Add more cinnamon or nutmeg! Prefer a milder flavor? Use less brown sugar and more granulated sugar. The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes this recipe so special.

So go ahead and give these sugar and spice pecans a try – I promise you won’t be disappointed! I’ve been making these pecans for years now, and every time I serve them at a party or family gathering, people rave about them. They’re the perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors that will leave everyone wanting more.

Sugar and Spice Pecans

Sugar and Spice Pecans

4.8 from 528 votes

These crunchy pecans are coated in a sweet and spicy blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cayenne. They make a perfect snack or holiday gift.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time30 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 220 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pecans

4 cups pecan halves
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
3In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cayenne pepper, and salt until well combined.
4Pour the melted butter and vanilla extract over the pecan halves and toss to coat evenly.
5Add the sugar-spice mixture to the buttered pecans and stir with a spatula until every pecan is thoroughly coated.
6Spread the pecans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
7Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the pecans are fragrant and the coating is bubbly and slightly darkened.
8Remove from the oven and let cool completely on the baking sheet; the coating will harden as it cools.

🔧Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Rimmed baking sheet
Parchment paper
Whisk
Spatula

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 220 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 4g❤️Cholesterol: 10mg🧂Sodium: 150mg🌾Total Carbs: 14g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 10g🥩Protein: 3g

📝Notes

Store cooled pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For extra heat, increase cayenne to 1/2 teaspoon.

Watch Video Of How Sugar and Spice Pecans Works

These sugar and spice pecans are truly a staple in our household – we love them so much that we always keep a stash on hand. Not only do they make a delicious snack on their own, but they’re also an amazing addition to salads, yogurt parfaits, or even as a topping for ice cream sundaes!

One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to customize – want more spice? Add more cinnamon or nutmeg!

Prefer a milder flavor? Use less brown sugar and more granulated sugar.

The possibilities are endless.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Sugar and Spice Pecans

Q: What type of nuts can I use in place of pecans?

While pecans are traditional in this recipe, you can substitute other nuts like walnuts or hazelnuts if you prefer.

Q: Can I make these pecans without using refined sugar?

Yes, you can replace granulated sugar with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.

Q: How do I store leftover pecans?

Store leftover pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.

Q: Can I use pre-ground spices instead of whole spices?

No, it’s best to use whole spices like cinnamon sticks and whole nutmegs for the best flavor.

Q: What if I don’t have brown sugar?

You can make your own brown sugar by mixing equal parts granulated sugar and molasses.

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