Description
Delightfully sweet and spicy candied pecans coated with a blend of confectioners’ sugar, cayenne pepper, and a touch of salt, baked to a perfect caramelized finish. These nuts are ideal as a snack, salad topping, or a crunchy addition to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- ½ cup confectioners’ sugar
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 4 teaspoons water
- 2 cups pecans
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and position an oven rack in the middle. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Mix Coating: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar, kosher salt, cayenne pepper, and water until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined, creating a flavorful glaze.
- Coat Pecans: Add the pecans to the sugar mixture and stir thoroughly until all nuts are evenly coated with the glaze, ensuring balanced sweetness and spice.
- Arrange and Bake: Spread the coated pecans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not clumped together to allow even baking. Scrape any remaining glaze from the bowl over the nuts. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until pecans caramelize and the glaze turns a rich brown but watch closely to avoid burning, especially around edges.
- Cool and Store: Once baked, immediately slide the parchment paper off the hot baking sheet onto the countertop. Let the nuts cool completely to halt cooking and prevent burning. After cooling, separate any clusters. Store candied pecans in an airtight container for up to two weeks to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Watch the pecans closely during baking to prevent burning, especially around the edges.
- Ensure pecans are spread out evenly in a single layer for uniform caramelization.
- Cooling on parchment paper helps stop the cooking process quickly and prevents sticking.
- These candied pecans can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to taste if you prefer less or more heat.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
