SOUTHWESTERN SPICED PECANS

1 pkg (1.25-oz) taco seasoning mix

5 tbsp Splenda or Stevia Granular
2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp cayenne
1/4 cup fresh orange juice
2 cups pecan halves

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Line a 15 x 10 x 1-inch baking pan with aluminum foil; spray with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.

In a small saucepan, combine 1 tablespoon of the taco seasoning, 4 tablespoons of the Splenda or Stevia, the cinnamon and half the cayenne; mix together well. Stir in the orange juice and bring to a boil over medium heat.

Remove pan from the heat and stir in the pecans. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking pan; spread out evenly.

Bake pecans at 350 degrees for 15 minutes, stirring once about halfway through.

While pecans bake, in a small bowl, combine the remaining taco seasoning, remaining Splenda or Stevia, and remaining cayenne; mix together well.

When you remove pecans from the oven, place in a medium-size bowl. Add the spice mixture and toss to coat all the pecans. Return to the baking pan.

Place back into the oven and bake another 5 minutes, stirring once. Allow to cool completely before serving or placing in an airtight container to store briefly.

These make great snacking party foods or placed in a decorative jar or container they make a great gift for diabetics.

NOTE: Nuts are good for diabetics. As with all snacks, do not make a meal of them. These are to be set out and shared with family and friends.