An ode to childhood memories and an easy make-ahead recipe for holiday get-togethers, all you need to prepare this sweet and savory snack are pecans, maple syrup, and a handful of spices.

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Spiced or Spicy Pecans

Servings: 3 Cups

Ingredients

  • 3 cups pecan halves
  • 1/3 cup maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger*
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg*
  • 1/4 teaspoon cardamom
  • 1/8 teaspoon fine salt
  • *To make a spicy version of the recipe substitute 1/2 teaspoon red chile powder for ginger and 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin for nutmeg and cardamom.

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350º F.
  • Place pecans in a large bowl and mix in maple syrup until coated. Add spices and mix well.
  • Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread pecans evenly over the parchment paper and bake for 15–20 minutes. Stir every 5 minutes until nuts are toasted and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  • Slide parchment off the baking sheet to stop the cooking process. Cool the nuts until you can handle them. Break apart pecans, as some may stick together.
  • After the nuts have completely cooled, serve in a bowl, or split into small jars and tie with ribbons as gifts.