Sweet and Spicy Roasted Pecans

Are you ready for some addictive and easy holiday recipes? These are sweet and spicy Toasted Pecans Makes the perfect holiday appetizer or easy host/hostess gift. Also perfect as a last minute Christmas gift!

So as not to spoil the surprise for anyone, all of my friends and family will be receiving edible holiday gifts this year! I’ve been trying to reduce my overall spending and find that I’m very grateful for any useful gift thing. Basically, I give what I like to get – anything that can be used up!

These sweet and spicy toasted pecans are always a hit when I serve them, so instead of hoarding them for myself, I’m sharing my love with all my gift recipients. I thought I would share this last minute recipe with you in case you are also looking for an edible gift. I know you (or anyone who receives them!) will love them too.

Why make this recipe?

Ready on the 20th – that’s right! These toasted pecans take 20 minutes (or less!) to make.

Very suitable for gift giving – My favorite are edible gifts! These come together quickly and easily and anyone will be lucky to receive one.

Refined sugar free – These sweet and spicy roasted pecans are sweetened with pure maple syrup instead of cane or brown sugar.

Ingredients for roasted pecans

raw pecans– You want to use raw pecans because we will be toasting them and don’t want them to burn.
maple syrup – If all you have is honey, that’s ok too.
Cinnamon – This will add sweetness.
chili – A little heat. Feel free to adjust to suit spice preferences.
sea salt ——This is crucial! Don’t skip the salt.

How to Make Sweet and Spicy Roasted Pecans

Step 1: Mix Pecans

Mix all ingredients in a large bowl and make sure the pecans are well coated.

Step Two: Toast Pecans

Spread pecans in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with baking paper. Bake 15 minutes, stirring once halfway or until pecans are toasted to desired level. Watch carefully to make sure they don’t burn. Remove from oven and place on baking sheet to cool. They will harden as they cool.

Sweet and spicy toasted pecans on a baking sheet.

Step 3: Enjoy or save

Store in a glass bottle or airtight container for up to 3 months (or longer in the refrigerator).

Sweet and spicy roasted pecans in a glass jar.

FAQ

Can I use a different sweetener?

Yes, honey can be used instead of maple syrup if desired.

How do I eat these toasted pecans?

Honestly, I could eat these by the handful, but if you’re looking for some ideas, they taste great added to salads, roasted veggies, or stirred into snack mixes.

How spicy are these toasted pecans?

I found they had good kicking ability, but weren’t overly powerful. If you want more heat, just add more chilies, or reduce the amount for those who don’t like spice.

Can I double the recipe?

You can definitely do it! I just recommend baking on two baking sheets otherwise the pecans will be overcrowded and won’t bake evenly.

Where can I get canning labels?

I ordered these canning labels from Amazon. I tried making my own labels and printing them on can label stickers, but found it a bit tedious and I didn’t think my guests cared enough to put in the extra effort! Just ask someone with nice handwriting to do it for you 🙂

Storage instructions

Stores in glass bottle for up to 3 months. Best stored in a cool, dry place or refrigerator.

More edible gift ideas