Sweet and Spicy Candied Pecans - With a Kick

"These nuts are addictive!!! Serve as a delicious snack, super-easy appetizer (great on a Ritz cracker with whipped cream cheese), topping for salads (see my Waldorf Salad Waldorf Salad With Tart Cherries, Grapes, and Candied Pecans) or in candied sweet potatoes. And, they make the perfect hostess gift especially during the Holiday Season! I make a double batch before Thanksgiving and freeze in ziplock bags for use at Christmas and New Years. The kick is up to you, as they are really very mild as written (we think they are perfect this way). Recipe was given to me by my sister, originally from Bon Appetit...."