These spiced honey-glazed pecans are a delightful combination of sweet, spicy, and nutty flavors, perfect for snacking or as a topping for salads and desserts.
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
Preheating ensures even cooking and the perfect texture for the pecans.
In a skillet over low heat, combine the honey, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, and salt, stirring until smooth.
Stir constantly to prevent the honey from burning and to evenly distribute the spices.
Add the pecan halves to the skillet and stir until they are evenly coated with the honey mixture.
Ensure all pecans are well coated for consistent flavor.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the coated pecans in a single layer.
Using parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Bake the pecans in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, stirring once halfway through.
Keep an eye on the pecans to avoid overcooking, as they can burn quickly.
Remove the pecans from the oven and let them cool slightly for about 2 minutes.
Cooling allows the coating to set and the pecans to crisp up.
In a mixing bowl, toss the warm pecans with the sugar until evenly coated.
Tossing while the pecans are warm helps the sugar adhere better.
Spread the pecans on a fresh sheet of parchment paper and let them cool completely.
Allowing the pecans to cool completely ensures they are crunchy and not sticky.
Store the cooled pecans in an airtight container for freshness.
Proper storage keeps the pecans fresh and crunchy for longer.