Cocktail Pecans
Sweet and spicy cocktail pecans offer a crunchy, flavorful snack with hints of cinnamon, red pepper, and Worcestershire sauce, perfect for parties or as a savory treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, salt, ground cinnamon, garlic powder, ground red pepper, and hot sauce in a large bowl, stirring well.
- Add pecan halves to the mixture, stirring gently to coat well.
- Spread coated pecans in a single layer in a 15 x 10 x 1 inch jellyroll pan.
- Bake at 300°F for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Drain pecans on paper towels and let cool.
- Store in an airtight container.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting the Worcestershire sauce with a soy sauce for a different umami twist. You can also adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the ground red pepper and hot sauce. If you prefer a sweeter version, add a tablespoon of brown sugar or honey to the butter mixture. These cocktail pecans are versatile and can be a delightful topping for salads or incorporated into recipes like Potato Chip Cookies-Crunchies.
Serving Suggestions
These cocktail pecans make an excellent snack for parties or gatherings. Serve them alongside cheese and charcuterie boards, or mix them into salads for added crunch. They pair beautifully with October Baked Apples for a seasonal dessert. For a unique twist, sprinkle them over vanilla ice cream or yogurt for a delightful treat.
Storage & Reheating
Once the pecans have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to two weeks, but for longer shelf life, consider refrigerating them. Avoid reheating to maintain their crunch; simply enjoy them as a snack or topping straight from the container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cocktail Pecans contains roughly 6 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 931mg per serving (40% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds in this recipe. Keep in mind the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the nut used, so monitor them closely while baking to ensure they don’t burn.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make these cocktail pecans gluten-free, simply replace the Worcestershire sauce with a gluten-free alternative, such as tamari or a homemade blend. Always check labels to ensure all ingredients comply with gluten-free standards.
Can I make these cocktail pecans ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare these cocktail pecans up to two weeks in advance. Store them in an airtight container, and they will remain flavorful and crunchy, making them an ideal snack for holidays or gatherings.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).