Spiced Pecans Recipe

If you love a snack that’s both flavorful and a little fancy, then these Spiced Pecans are going to become your new obsession. With just the right balance of aromatic rosemary, sage, thyme, and a hint of cinnamon, these crunchy pecans elevate any snack time or gathering. The Spiced Pecans deliver that perfect combination of sweet, savory, and herbal notes wrapped up in a satisfyingly crisp bite—you’ll find yourself reaching for them again and again!

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of simple ingredients, these Spiced Pecans pack phenomenal flavor. Each element plays a crucial role: pecans provide the rich crunch, olive oil helps the spices cling and roast to perfection, and the combination of herbs and sweetness creates a complex yet comforting profile.

• Pecan Halves (2 cups): Choose fresh pecans for the best crunch and flavor.
• Swerve Brown Sugar Substitute (1/4 cup): Adds sweetness without the added sugar, balancing the savory herbs.
• Olive Oil (2 tbsp): Helps to evenly coat the nuts and brings out the toastiness during baking.
• Dried Rosemary (1 1/2 tsp): Gives a fragrant, piney herbal note that stands out.
• Ground Sage (1 1/2 tsp): Offers an earthy depth to the spice mix.
• Ground Thyme (1 tsp): Adds subtle floral hints that brighten the pecans.
• Cinnamon (1/4 tsp): Provides a warm, cozy aroma that ties the spices together.

How to Make Spiced Pecans

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

First, preheat your oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures the pecans toast evenly and don’t stick, making cleanup a breeze. Low and slow roasting is key here to develop a deep, toasted flavor without burning the nuts.

Step 2: Coat the Pecans

Place the pecan halves into a large mixing bowl. Drizzle them with the olive oil, which is the glue that will hold all those wonderful spices onto the nuts. Then sprinkle on your fragrant dried rosemary, ground sage, ground thyme, cinnamon, and the sweet Swerve brown sugar substitute. Toss everything together to make sure every pecan is coated well with the spice blend.

Step 3: Bake Until Toasty and Crisp

Spread the coated pecans out in a single layer on your lined baking sheet. Bake them in the oven for 20 minutes—this gentle heat toasts the pecans to perfection, allowing the oils to release those herbal aromas and the sugar to caramelize slightly. Make sure to toss the nuts once they come out of the oven to separate them and help them cool evenly without clumping.

How to Serve Spiced Pecans

Garnishes

Sprinkle these Spiced Pecans over fresh salads for a satisfying crunch and a burst of savory-sweet flavor. They also make an excellent garnish for cheese boards, adding texture and a delightful spice contrast to creamy cheeses.

Side Dishes

Serve Spiced Pecans alongside roasted vegetables or mix them into grain dishes like quinoa or wild rice to liven up a simple side. Their flavor profile complements autumnal and hearty dishes beautifully, making your meal feel special with minimal effort.

Creative Ways to Present

Pop the Spiced Pecans into small decorative bowls as a party snack or pair them with dark chocolate chunks for a luxurious nibble. You can also crush them coarsely and use them as a crust topping for chicken or fish, giving your dishes an unexpected burst of flavor and texture.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Spiced Pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Storing them properly ensures they stay crunchy and fresh without absorbing other pantry odors.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy Spiced Pecans later on, freeze them in a sealed freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months frozen and thaw quickly at room temperature, retaining their crisp texture and vibrant seasoning.

Reheating

To refresh your pecans after storage or freezing, pop them in a preheated 300-degree oven for 5 to 7 minutes. This quick reheat will bring back their toasty aroma and crunchy texture without overcooking them.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or cashews can all be delicious substitutes. Just adjust the baking time slightly, as some nuts toast faster than others.

Is it necessary to use Swerve brown sugar substitute?

Not at all. You can swap in regular brown sugar or another sweetener of your choice. Just be mindful that some sweeteners might caramelize differently or affect texture.

How spicy are these Spiced Pecans?

These pecans are more aromatic and herb-forward rather than spicy hot, perfect for those who enjoy nuanced flavors without heat.

Can I make these nut-free?

Since pecans are the star ingredient, it’s tricky to make a nut-free version. However, you might experiment with roasted chickpeas or seeds as alternatives, though the texture and flavor will differ.

What’s the best way to toss the pecans while baking?

It’s best to toss them when you take them out of the oven to separate them and prevent clumping. If you want even roasting, you can carefully stir them halfway through baking too.

Final Thoughts

These Spiced Pecans are a wonderfully simple way to add big flavor and texture to your snack lineup or meals. Once you try making your own at home, you’ll see just how delightful this humble nut can be when dressed in herbs, sweet notes, and toasted to perfection. Go ahead and treat yourself to these Spiced Pecans—they’re sure to become your favorite crispy, savory snack in no time!

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