Salted, Spiced or Sugared Pecans 
by Michelle Jones, HolidayFamilyFun.com

Every holiday season my mother-in-law makes these tasty salted pecans for the family to nibble on while waiting for the big dinner, then for Christmas I like to make the sugared ones.  They also make wonderful gifts.  And for those that like things kicked up a bit, we've also included a recipe for Spiced Pecans, all three versions are wonderful!

Salted Pecans

Stir 2 c. pecan halves with 1-2 tsp. salt and 1/2 stick melted butter.  Cook at 225 degrees for 1 hour, stirring often.

Spiced Pecans

1 c. sugar

1/2 c. water

3/4 tsp. nutmeg

1 tsp. cinnamon

1/8 tsp. salt

2 c. pecan halves

Sugared Pecans

1 c. sugar

1/2 c. water

1/2 tsp. vanilla

1/2 tsp. salt

2 c. pecan halves

Bake pecans at 375 degrees for 15 minutes and remove from oven.  In a medium saucepan mix together all ingredients (except nuts) and bring to a boil, then reduce to a medium heat.  Cook for about 2 minutes.  Remove from heat and add pecans, stirring constantly until a sugary mass is formed.  While mixture is still hot, pour out onto greased pan or waxed paper, and separate each nut as they cool.

Extra Tip:  Store unused pecans in the fridge to keep fresh longer.

 

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Copyright 2002 by Michelle Jones