Sweet & Spicy Pecans

Nothing says Holiday nibbles to me, like a dish full of spicy nuts!  This recipe is perfect to have sitting around the house during a party or on Christmas day while you're waiting for your big meal.  It has just a hint of sweet and a hint of spice and has proven to be a tried and true recipe.  I like to have a small dish of nibbles on the bar too as you see here, and this is my go-to snack!  Try making these today - I bet you have all the ingredients in your kitchen already!

Spicy Pecans

2 egg whites

1 1/2 teaspoon salt

3/4 cup sugar

2 Tablespoons Smoke Paprika (or regular)

1 1/2 teaspoon ground red pepper (cayenne)

2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

6 cups pecan halves

1/4 cup Plus 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Beat egg whites and salt with wire whisk until foamy.  Add sugar, paprika, red pepper, and Worcestershire sauce, beating well.  Stir in pecans and butter.  Spread on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil & sprayed with non-stick spray.

Bake at 350 for about 30 minutes or until pecans are crisp, stirring every 10 minutes. 

Let cool and store in air tight container.

NOTE:  I like to add some almonds to my nut mixture, for example 4 cups pecans and 2 cups alomonds.  These are also delicious tossed in a salad!