So, how did you connect it? Wired the light in parallel with the capacitor and the resistor in series with both?
This might work for short delays under the following conditions:
It *must* be a DC voltage - you have to rectify what's coming from your transformer.
The capacitor needs to be quite large since the resistor cannot be too large or it will pass insufficient current to light the bulb or LED.
The light should require a low current to light.
45 mins is totally unrealistic, perhaps a few seconds delay with that idea.
And, the light will come on gradually as the voltage builds up, no sudden switch on.
Perhaps you explain a little further what parts you are using, their values, the voltages or, better still, draw a diagram what you are trying to do.
Also, since you mention long wires, how long exactly? Wire resistance does matter.