Nonstick vegetable oil spray
1 cup pecan halves (about 3 1/2 ounces)
2 tablespoons light corn syrup
1 tablespoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Generous pinch of cayenne pepper
Preheat oven to 325°F. Spray a baking sheet with nonstick spray.
Combine pecans and all remaining ingredients in a medium bowl, and toss to coat. Spread nut mixture on prepared baking sheet (some nuts may clump together). Bake until nuts are deep golden and sugar mixture is bubbling, stirring occasionally to break up clumps, about 15 minutes.
Cool completely on baking sheet. Can be made up to three days ahead. Store in airtight container.