Grand Spiced Pecans π°
Overview:
Prepare yourself for a flavor explosion with these Grand Spiced Pecans! Perfect for sharing during festive occasions like Christmas or Thanksgiving, or simply as a sweet treat to brighten up your day. This recipe yields a delightful blend of crunchy pecans coated in a tantalizing mixture of spices and sugars, creating a snack that’s impossible to resist. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a batch of these addictive pecans ready to enjoy or gift to loved ones.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Calories per serving: 289.9
Ingredients:
- 2 cups brown sugar
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 cup water
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup pecan halves
Instructions:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. | In a pot, combine the brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, cloves, salt, and water, along with the Karo syrup. |
| 2. | Heat the mixture over medium-low heat until it reaches the soft ball stage, which is around 236 degrees Fahrenheit on a candy thermometer. This usually takes a few minutes, so keep an eye on it. |
| 3. | Once the mixture reaches the soft ball stage, add the unsalted butter and pecan halves into the pot. Cook for an additional minute, stirring gently to coat the pecans evenly. |
| 4. | Remove the pot from the heat and continue stirring the mixture until it loses its shininess. This step helps to ensure that the pecans are well-coated with the delicious spiced sugar mixture. |
| 5. | Quickly pour the mixture onto a sheet of waxed paper before it starts to harden and become sugary. |
| 6. | Using two forks, separate the pecan halves while they are still warm. This will prevent them from clumping together as they cool. |
| 7. | Allow the pecans to cool completely on the waxed paper. |
| 8. | Once cooled, your Grand Spiced Pecans are ready to be enjoyed! These crunchy, flavorful treats make a delightful snack or a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family. |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 289.9
- Fat: 19.3g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Cholesterol: 3.8mg
- Sodium: 50.1mg
- Carbohydrates: 30.9g
- Fiber: 2.5g
- Sugar: 26.9g
- Protein: 2.3g
Serving Suggestions:
These Grand Spiced Pecans are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways:
- Serve them as a snack on their own for a burst of sweet and spicy flavor.
- Add them to salads for an extra crunch and a hint of sweetness.
- Use them as a topping for oatmeal or yogurt for a decadent breakfast treat.
- Incorporate them into baked goods such as cookies or brownies for a delicious twist.
- Package them in decorative bags or jars to give as homemade gifts for special occasions.
Tips:
- Be cautious when heating the sugar mixture to the soft ball stage, as it can easily burn if left unattended.
- Stir the pecans gently while cooking to ensure that they are evenly coated with the spiced sugar mixture.
- Allow the pecans to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
- Experiment with different spice combinations to customize the flavor of your pecans to your liking. You can try adding nutmeg, ginger, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
With its irresistible combination of sweet, spicy, and crunchy flavors, these Grand Spiced Pecans are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack or gifting them to loved ones, this recipe is guaranteed to impress!
