A delightful snack or topping for salads and desserts, these honey-spiced glazed pecans are easy to make and irresistibly delicious.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Preheating ensures even cooking and caramelization of the pecans.
In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
Mixing the spices thoroughly ensures an even flavor distribution.
Add the pecans to the bowl and toss them to coat with the spice mixture.
Toss gently to avoid breaking the pecans.
Drizzle the honey and olive oil over the spiced pecans and mix well to coat evenly.
Warm the honey slightly if it's too thick to drizzle.
Spread the coated pecans in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Using parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the pecans are toasted and the coating is caramelized.
Keep an eye on the pecans to prevent burning.
Let the pecans cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a plate to cool completely.
Cooling allows the coating to set and the pecans to crisp up.
Serve the honey-spiced pecans as a snack or use them as a topping for salads or desserts.
Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.