I have made a version of this spiced pecans recipe countless times, and honestly, every batch seems to be the “best batch.” I recently turned this gourmet go-to into a vegan, egg-free delight for everyone to enjoy, and yep, they got even better!

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Even more goodies

Spiced Pecans Holiday Beginnings

It was one of those quick “Hey, you wanna try this free class with me” from my sister, and the now-tattered recipe pages we got that day have become family favorites. It was a holiday gift-giving cooking class given by the local culinary school that covered basics like candied nuts, spiced nuts, curd, jellies, and more.

For nearly 15 years, the spiced pecans became my contribution to holidays throughout the year, and with the rise of charcuterie boards, I’ve often thought about packaging and selling these goodies.

These make perfect DIY gifts, too. Grab some mason jars or treat boxes; you’ve got a gourmet treat your friends and family will ask for again.

Healthy Delights

There are many reasons pecans don’t just taste good; they feel good, too. Pecans are a source of vitamins and minerals like zinc, manganese, calcium, and iron. These tree nuts are an immunity booster; pecans offer protection from infections.

They are a good source of oleic acid, which helps with cholesterol levels and heart health. It’s a satisfying source of plant-based protein and fat that keeps you satisfied and your blood sugars balanced. They also have the highest levels of good antioxidants over any other tree nut.

In other words, make these nuts!

Why go Egg-Free?

If you’re new to making spiced and candied nuts, you may not know that egg whites are a typical ingredient in the glazing process. But going egg-free was necessary for my battle with chronic illness, as eggs can be a source of fuel for the virus linked to my condition and symptoms.

Chickpeas to the Rescue

Aquafaba, or the “chickpea liquid” you drain from a can of chickpeas, is the 1:1 replacement for egg whites. Wa-la, vegans and those avoiding eggs can now take part in these pecans. I also found the aquafaba easier to deal with. I didn’t need to worry about egg whites expiring or storing these nuts in the fridge. Given that raw eggs can spread disease, prep became just less stressful.

Thyme Teller

These spiced pecans aren’t just spicy and sweet, thanks to the cayenne pepper and brown sugar, but dried thyme stands out as the perfect herb for these nuts.

Thyme is another health booster, providing antioxidants, anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial benefits. Thyme is an excellent herbal supplement for acne, cough, and mood-boosting.

And it gives these nuts a savory flavor that makes them craveable.

For more on herbs and spices, check out my article Fresh Herbs and Spices Your Kitchen Needs.

Endless uses

Spiced pecans can add a delightful flavor and crunch to various dishes. Here’s a list of uses for these vegan spiced pecans:

Snacking: Enjoy spiced pecans as a delicious and nutritious snack.
Salads: Sprinkle spiced pecans on salads for added crunch and flavor. Goes well with both leafy green salads and fruit salads. Chop them up or leave them whole.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer spiced pecans with your favorite yogurt and fresh fruits for a tasty parfait.
Ice Cream Topping: These pecans will make a unique topping for vanilla or cinnamon ice cream.
Oatmeal or Cereal Topper: Sprinkle some over your morning oatmeal or cereal for a warm and flavorful addition.
Charcuterie Platter: Include spiced pecans on a charcuterie platter for a sweet and savory element. Pecans go well with some meats, cheeses, and dried fruits.
Trail Mix: Incorporate these spiced pecans into a homemade trail mix.
Stuffing: Add these spiced pecans to your stuffing recipe for a unique twist and extra crunch. YES PLEASE.
Pancake or Waffle Topping: Sprinkle these babies on top of pancakes, waffles, and maple syrup for a tasty breakfast. The maple syrup is such a compliment.
Addition to your Roasted Vegetables: Mix spiced pecans with roasted vegetables for a flavorful and crunchy side dish.
Couscous or Quinoa Salad: Incorporate these spiced pecans into a couscous or quinoa salad for added texture and flavor.
Garnish for Soups: Sprinkle spiced pecans on top of creamy soups for a crunchy garnish.
Gifts: Package your spiced pecans in decorative jars or bags to give as homemade holiday gifts. Trust me, they will be a hit!

Remember, you can adjust the spice level in this recipe based on personal preference and the specific dish you’re preparing. Enjoy experimenting with these ideas!