Preheat oven to 350°F.

Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper, and generously grease the foil or parchment with the butter.

Combine the sugar and water in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil, stirring to dissolve the sugar.

Boil without stirring for 5 minutes.

Remove from the heat and stir in the pecans.

Let stand for 5 minutes, stirring often.

Drain the pecans and return them to the saucepan.

Add the ginger, salt, and cayenne and stir to coat the pecans.

Spread in a single layer on the prepared pan.

Bake for 15 minutes, stirring once.

Cool completely in the pan before serving.

*This recipe makes about 3 cups.*