Orange Spiced Nuts
Sweet and spicy orange glazed pecans with warm cinnamon and cloves, perfect for snacking or gifting during holidays and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
- Spread pecan halves on an ungreased 15 x 10-inch jelly roll pan.
- Bake at 275°F for 10 minutes.
- In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, orange juice, cinnamon, salt, and cloves.
- Bring to a boil; boil for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat; stir in the pecans.
- Using a slotted spoon, remove the nuts to foil or waxed paper.
- Separate the nuts with a fork; let dry.
- Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or substituting walnuts for the pecans. If you prefer a healthier option, try using coconut sugar instead of regular sugar. Ensure the nuts are well-coated by stirring them frequently in the saucepan. Keep an eye on them while baking to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions
These Orange Spiced Nuts make an excellent snack on their own or can be used as a topping for salads and desserts. They pair beautifully with D'S Wedding Punch or can be served alongside a cheese platter for a delightful contrast in flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Once completely cooled, store the Orange Spiced Nuts in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for about two weeks. For longer storage, consider freezing them in a sealed bag; just thaw at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange Spiced Nuts contains roughly 495 calories, with 8g protein, 85g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (73% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (55% of the Daily Value), and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 497mg per serving (22% 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 different nuts for this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with a mix of nuts like almonds, cashews, or hazelnuts. Each type of nut will bring its unique flavor and texture to the dish, making it versatile for different taste preferences.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make these nuts vegan, simply substitute the sugar with a vegan-friendly alternative like maple syrup or agave nectar. Adjust the cooking time slightly, as these alternatives may require a different approach to achieve the right consistency.
Can I add more spices to the mixture?
Yes, you can definitely customize the spice blend! Consider adding a pinch of cayenne for heat or ginger for warmth. Just be cautious with the amounts, as the spices can quickly overpower the delicate orange flavor.
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).