Spicy Pecans

2 cups servings Prep: 5 m Cook: 40 m Total: 45 m Beginner
5.0/5 (1)
Spicy Pecans
Pecans are popular in Cajun culture used in making the ever popular pralines, cakes and cookies. Here is another way to enjoy pecans with a little touch of hot! Butter-roasted pecan halves get tossed with Worcestershire sauce, cinnamon, garlic powder, and hot sauce for a spicy-sweet snack.

Ingredients

2 cups servings
  • 3 tbsp butter or margarine
  • 2 cups pecan halves
  • 3 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 2 - 3 dashes hot pepper sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 300 degrees.
  2. In the oven melt butter in a 13x9x2 inch baking dish. Add pecans and stir until they are coated with butter. Bake 15 minutes.
  3. Mix the Worcestershire sauce, salt, cinnamon, garlic powder and red pepper sauce. Pour over the pecans and stir gently until well mixed.
  4. Return to the oven and bake 20 to 30 minutes or until crisp, stirring occasionally. Store in an airtight container.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why aren't my pecans getting crispy?

A: Make sure to bake them the full 20-30 minutes in the second baking step, stirring occasionally. They'll crisp up as they cool, so don't underbake them.

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! These keep well in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks, making them perfect for parties and gifting.

Tips and Techniques

Stir the pecans occasionally during the second baking to ensure even coating and crisping. They’ll continue to crisp as they cool, so don’t worry if they seem slightly soft when you first remove them from the oven.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • pecans: walnuts or almonds
  • hot pepper sauce: cayenne pepper

Equipment Needed

  • 13x9x2 inch baking dish
  • airtight container for storage