Cajun Spiced Pecans Snack

The first time I made these spiced pecans, my tiny apartment filled with such an incredible aroma that my neighbor actually knocked on my door to ask what was happening in there. I'd been experimenting with holiday gifts and stumbled onto something that ended up being way too good to give away. Now I make double batches because a single bag mysteriously vanishes within days.

Last Christmas, I set out a bowl during our annual family game night and they disappeared before we even dealt the first hand. My usually reserved uncle asked if he could take the leftover spices home to try them on his own roasted almonds. Now every family gathering starts with someone casually asking if I brought those nuts.

Ingredients

• 4 cups raw pecan halves: Fresh raw pecans toast up beautifully and hold onto the spice mixture better than pre roasted ones
• 1 large egg white: This creates the perfect adhesive for the spices while helping them toast up golden brown
• 1 tablespoon water: Helps loosen the egg white so it coats every nook and cranny evenly
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Adds just enough sweetness to balance all those bold savory spices
• 1½ teaspoons smoked paprika: The smoky depth is what makes these taste like they came from a professional kitchen
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Rounds out the flavor profile and adds that familiar savory note
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Works with the garlic to create that classic Cajun foundation
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Brings an earthy herbal quality that keeps the nuts from being too one note
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Complements the thyme and adds another layer of Mediterranean warmth
• ¾ teaspoon cayenne pepper: Adjust this up or down depending on your spice tolerance
• 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing all those spices together and making them pop
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a gentle background warmth and complexity

Instructions

Get your oven ready:

Preheat to 300°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper

Make the coating:

Whisk the egg white and water in a large bowl until its frothy and bubbly throughout

Coat the nuts:

Add the pecans to the egg white mixture and toss until every single pecan is lightly coated

Mix the magic:

Combine all the spices and sugar in a small bowl and stir until everything is evenly distributed

Add the flavor:

Sprinkle the spice mixture over the pecans and toss continuously until they are completely covered

Spread them out:

Arrange the pecans in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet so they toast evenly

Toast to perfection:

Bake for 20 to 22 minutes stirring halfway through until they are fragrant and golden brown

The crucial cooling step:

Let them cool completely on the baking sheet where they will finish crisping up

Store them right:

Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks if they last that long

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What started as a last minute homemade gift idea has become one of those recipes I cannot stop making. I have tucked them into care packages brought them to potlucks and even stashed small bags in my desk drawer for emergency snacking.

Make Them Your Own

I have tried this spice blend on walnuts almonds and even mixed nuts with great success. Each nut brings its own personality to the party so do not be afraid to experiment with what you have on hand.

Perfect Pairings

These spiced pecans are incredibly versatile and elevate whatever they touch. I have crushed them over roasted sweet potatoes added them to charcuterie boards and even chopped them into ice cream for an unexpected crunch.

Serving Suggestions

Set them out at your next gathering and watch them disappear or package them up in mason jars for thoughtful homemade gifts. The contrast of sweet spicy and smoky works with everything from afternoon snacks to cocktail hour appetizers.

• Try serving them alongside a chilled glass of Riesling to cut through the heat
• They are perfect for sprinkling over green salads for added texture and flavor
• Package them in clear bags with ribbon for effortless holiday gifting

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These Cajun spiced pecans have become one of those recipes I can count on to impress without requiring any special skills. Once you start making them you will understand why they never last long in my house.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of pecans work best?

Raw pecan halves are ideal as they absorb the spice blend well and crisp nicely when baked.

→ Can I adjust the spiciness?

Yes, increase or decrease the cayenne pepper to suit your preferred heat level.

→ Are there alternatives to pecans?

Walnuts or almonds can be substituted for a different yet equally delicious nutty flavor.

→ How should I store these spiced nuts?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain crispness for up to two weeks.

→ What are good pairings for these spiced nuts?

They pair wonderfully with a chilled Riesling or a crisp lager and add a flavorful crunch to salads or snacks.