Sweet and Spicy Nuts

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Makes 2 cups

Ingredients:

Crisco® Original No-Stick Cooking Spray
2 cups pecan halves, or almonds or cashews
3/4 cup water
1-1/2 cups sugar
2 tbsps. Crisco® Pure Canola Oil
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1 tsp. coarse salt
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper

Preparation Directions:

1. Heat oven to 325°F. Line baking sheet with foil. Coat with no-stick cooking spray.

2. In a large saucepan, combine nuts, water and sugar. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Boil and stir for 5 minutes. With a slotted spoon, carefully remove nuts. Spread on prepared baking sheet in a single layer.

3. Bake 10 to 13 minutes or until lightly browned. Remove from oven and place in large mixing bowl, breaking apart any that are stuck together. Drizzle with oil and vanilla.

4. In a small bowl, mix together salt, cinnamon and cayenne pepper. Sprinkle over nuts. Toss to evenly coat. Return to baking sheet.

5. Bake for 10 minutes or until browned and crisp. Cool completely. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.