Kay'S Sweet And Spicy Pecans
Sweet and spicy pecans with a warm, smoky flavor profile, perfect for snacking or topping salads and desserts. The combination of cumin, coriander, red pepper, and sugar creates a balanced mix of heat and sweetness, appealing to those who enjoy bold, flavorful nuts with a hint of spice.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 275°F. Line a sided baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg white and water until frothy.
- Add the pecans to the egg mixture and toss to coat evenly.
- In a separate bowl, combine sugar, cumin, coriander, salt, and ground red pepper.
- Sprinkle the spice mixture over the coated pecans and toss until well coated.
- Spread the pecans in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for approximately 20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the pecans are toasted and fragrant.
- Allow to cool before serving or storing.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the best texture, ensure the egg white is whipped until frothy but not fully stiff. You can substitute sunflower seeds or almonds for pecans if desired. Adjust the spice levels to your taste, adding more ground red pepper for extra heat. For a unique twist, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon to the spice mixture for a hint of warmth.
Serving Suggestions
These sweet and spicy pecans make a delightful snack on their own or can be used as a topping for salads, adding a crunchy texture to a tasty salad. They also pair beautifully with Sara'S Chocolate Cake as a contrast to the sweetness of dessert or can be served alongside a cheese platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator where they can last up to a month. If you want to refresh them, simply reheat in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes before serving to restore their crunch.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kay'S Sweet And Spicy Pecans contains roughly 818 calories, with 15g protein, 159g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (67% of the Daily Value), calcium (41% of the Daily Value), and protein (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1256mg per serving (55% 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 make these pecans ahead of time?
Yes, these pecans can be made ahead of time and stored. They maintain their flavor and crunch for about two weeks at room temperature. Just make sure they are completely cooled before storing them in an airtight container to prevent moisture from affecting their texture.
What can I use instead of egg white?
If you're looking for a vegan alternative, you can use aquafaba, the liquid from canned chickpeas, as a substitute for egg white. Use about 3 tablespoons of aquafaba per egg white. It will give a similar binding effect to help the spices adhere to the nuts.
How can I adjust the spice levels?
To adjust the spice levels, you can reduce the amount of ground red pepper and salt according to your taste. If you enjoy more heat, consider adding cayenne pepper or pepper flakes. For a milder flavor, omit the ground red pepper entirely or replace it with paprika for a smoky taste.
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).