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Buttery Cayenne Pecans

These spicy cayenne pecans are a sophisticated vegetarian snack that brings together rich, buttery flavours with a gentle hit of heat. Roasting the nuts at a lower temperature allows the pecans to become impeccably crisp without burning, while the combination of Worcestershire sauce, mustard powder and cayenne creates a savoury glaze that is deeply addictive. The aroma of toasted nuts and spices filling your kitchen is an added bonus to this quick preparation.

Ideal for autumn gatherings or as a simple homemade gift, these nuts are a versatile addition to any grazing board. Serve them warm as an elegant accompaniment to drinks, or scatter them over a crisp winter salad for an extra layer of crunch and flavour. Because they can be prepared up to two days in advance, they are a stress-free option for those who enjoy effortless entertaining.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Buttery Cayenne Pecans

  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

  • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt

  • 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder

  • 1/2 teaspoons mustard powder

  • 1/2 teaspoons hot sauce

  • 1/4 teaspoons cayenne pepper

  • 450g pecans (about 450g )

Preheat oven to 149°C. Whisk butter, Worcestershire sauce, salt, garlic powder, mustard powder, hot sauce, and cayenne in a medium bowl. Add pecans and toss to coat. Spread out in a single layer in a large cast-iron skillet or on a rimmed baking sheet and roast, tossing occasionally, until pecans are well toasted and spices are fragrant, 25–30 minutes. These are pretty great served warm, or let cool.

Pecans can be made 2 days ahead. Store tightly wrapped at room temperature.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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