Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Make the Glaze: In a medium skillet, combine brown sugar, ground cinnamon, fine sea salt, vanilla extract, water, and optional orange zest and cayenne pepper. Heat over medium heat, stirring continuously until the mixture begins to bubble and the brown sugar is fully melted, about 1 minute.

Add the Pecans: Gently stir in the pecan halves into the bubbling glaze, ensuring they're coated. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring consistently.

Transfer and Cool: Transfer the coated pecans onto the lined baking sheet and spread them out in a single layer to cool completely.