Spicy Toasted Pecans
Spicy toasted pecans combine warm spices and a sweet glaze, creating a crunchy snack perfect for parties, gifting, or enjoying on their own with coffee or cheese.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Toss the pecans with melted margarine to coat evenly.
- Spread the coated pecans in a shallow baking dish.
- Sprinkle the pecans with sugar, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
- Bake in a 350°F oven, stirring frequently, until toasted, about 15 to 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of maple syrup for sweetness. If you're out of margarine, unsalted butter or coconut oil can serve as great substitutes. Make sure to stir the pecans frequently in the oven to ensure even toasting and prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions
These Spicy Toasted Pecans make a delightful snack on their own or can be added to salads for a crunchy texture. They pair particularly well with a green salad dressed with Homemade French Dressing(Very Good) or sprinkled over a bowl of Instant Vanilla Pudding Fruit Salad for a sweet and savory contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, they can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a month. To reheat, spread them on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes to restore their crunch.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spicy Toasted Pecans contains roughly 153 calories, with 2g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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?
Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds can be excellent substitutes in this recipe. Just keep in mind that different nuts may have varying cooking times, so monitor them closely to avoid over-toasting.
How can I make these pecans less sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet version, simply reduce the amount of sugar to a few tablespoons. You can also increase the spices like cinnamon and nutmeg to enhance the flavor without adding extra sweetness.
Are these pecans suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, these Spicy Toasted Pecans can easily be made vegan by substituting margarine with coconut oil or any other plant-based butter. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan-friendly.
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).