Lori’s Sugar and Spice Pecans

Have you ever had one of those friends who defines hospitality?  That’s my friend, Lori. I’ve known her for 9 years now, and there are 3 things (at a minimum) I admire about her:

1. Lori’s life is guided 100% by faith.
2. Lori’s smile is genuine at all times.
3. Lori’s hands are almost always holding a small, thoughtful gift of hospitality or appreciation.

These pecans were one of her gifts, placed in a simple cellophane bag and tied with a ribbon or twine and, the greatest gift, recipe attached.

Lori's Sugar and Spice Pecans

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Ingredients

  

• 1 egg white
• 1 tablespoon orange (or lemon) juice
• 3 cups pecan halves
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon cloves

Instructions

 

• Preheat oven to 300⁰.
• Beat egg white until frothy; add orange juice and beat again.
  
• Add nuts, stirring gently to coat.
• Combine remaining ingredients, add to pecans and stir to coat.
  
• Spread evenly on greased cookie sheet (10"x15" pan – stoneware pans do not need to be greased).
• Bake for 30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes.
• Cool completely.
  
• Store in an airtight container or ziploc bag.

Notes

Feel free to experiment with the spice combination (cardamom, cayenne, chipotle, finely ground coffee, etc.) and the nuts (almonds, walnuts, cashews, etc.) in this recipe.

Freezing the pecans will keep them fresh for a few months.

Most of the time, a double batch is required because I can’t give them all away.  Kept in the freezer, they will stay fresh and crunchy for months.

Add a few to a spinach and strawberry salad … to chicken salad along with a few dried cranberries … to morning oatmeal or yogurt and fruit … to butter-pecan ice cream …

Simple and impressive, I have given these as party favors, as small Christmas gifts, and as a part of wedding or shower baskets.

I know Lori won’t mind if I share the recipe with you … after all, sharing is what she does best!  Just don’t forget to pass it on …