Candied Pecans

There’s something incredibly nostalgic about making Candied Pecans. I remember the first time I tasted them at a holiday gathering, where they were scattered atop a vibrant salad, adding a delightful crunch and sweetness. The aroma of sugar melting and caramelizing on the pecans filled the air, making it impossible to resist. Since then, I’ve made it a tradition to whip up a batch whenever I want to elevate a dish or just enjoy them as a snack. Each time, I’m reminded of those cozy moments filled with laughter and good company, and I can’t help but feel grateful for such a simple yet satisfying treat.

Candied Pecans Ingredients

The ingredients for Candied Pecans are both simple and delightful. Their combination brings out the natural flavors of each component, creating a sweet and irresistible treat. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the flavor profile, ensuring a satisfying experience in every bite.

• ½ cup granulated sugar: This is the star of the show, providing the sweetness and that lovely caramelization when baked.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: This spice adds warmth and depth, enhancing the overall flavor of the pecans.
• Pinch of salt: Just a touch to balance the sweetness and elevate the taste.
• 1 egg white: This acts as a binder, helping the sugar adhere to the nuts while they bake.
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract: It brings a beautiful aroma and flavor that complements the sweetness.
• 1 pound pecan halves: These nuts are the base of the recipe, offering a rich, buttery flavor that pairs perfectly with the sugar and spices.

Step by Step Instructions for Candied Pecans

Making Candied Pecans is a fun process, and I can’t wait to share how easy it is! Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll have a delicious batch in no time. Let’s get started!

1. Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). This low temperature is essential for ensuring the pecans bake evenly and develop that lovely crunchy coating.
2. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This step is crucial to prevent the pecans from sticking and to make cleanup a breeze later.
3. In a small bowl, stir together ½ cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Mixing these together ensures an even distribution of flavors.
4. In another large bowl, whisk together 1 egg white and 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract until frothy. If you have an electric mixer, feel free to use it for a quicker result.
5. Add in 1 pound of pecan halves to the egg mixture. Stir carefully to coat each pecan evenly with the mixture.
6. Gradually sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the pecans, stirring continuously to make sure all the nuts are coated in that sugary goodness.
7. Spread the coated pecans onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. This helps them cook evenly and prevents clumping.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, stirring the nuts every 15 to 20 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as they should become fragrant and the sugar coating will harden.
9. Once done, allow the pecans to cool completely on the baking sheet. This is an important step, as they will crisp up as they cool down.
10. Enjoy your Candied Pecans right away, or store them in an airtight container for later. They make a fantastic snack!

Variations to Try

While the classic Candied Pecans recipe is wonderful on its own, there are plenty of exciting variations to explore. Here are some ideas to spice things up!

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a surprising heat that complements the sweetness.
• Maple Glaze: Substitute some of the sugar with maple syrup for a unique flavor twist that’s perfect for fall.
• Nut Mix: Combine pecans with other nuts like walnuts or almonds for a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the pecans for a decadent treat.
• Citrus Zest: Add a bit of orange or lemon zest to the sugar mixture for a fresh, bright flavor.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh and crunchy.
• Pairing: These pecans are perfect for salads, desserts, or simply enjoyed as a snack on their own!

Great Combinations for Candied Pecans

Serving Candied Pecans can be as creative as making them. Here are some delightful ideas to consider:

• Salads: Toss them into a mixed greens salad for a sweet crunch that pairs beautifully with vinaigrettes.
• Cheese Plates: They make a fantastic addition to cheese boards, adding a sweet contrast to creamy cheeses.
• Breakfast: Sprinkle them over oatmeal or yogurt for a deliciously sweet breakfast treat.
• On Their Own: Serve them as a snack during movie nights or gatherings – they’re always a hit!
• Gifts: Package them in decorative jars for a thoughtful homemade gift.
• Seasonal Treat: Enjoy them during fall festivities or holidays as a comforting snack.
• Storage Tips: Keep any leftover pecans in an airtight container to maintain their crunchiness and flavor.

FAQ

Conclusion

The joy of making Candied Pecans lies in their delightful crunch and sweet flavor that elevates any dish. They’re simple to prepare and incredibly versatile, making them a must-try for any snack lover. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed with the result!

Candied Pecans

Craving something sweet and crunchy? These Candied Pecans are the ultimate snack! With their crispy texture and delightful caramel flavor, they’re perfect on their own or as a topping for salads and desserts. Whip up a batch today and enjoy their irresistible sweetness tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Servings 12 servings

Calories 200 kcal

Equipment

• Pre-Cut Parchment Paper
• Baking Sheets
• Nordic Ware Aluminum Half Sheet Pans

Ingredients

  

• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch salt
• 1 egg white
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 pound pecan halves

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). This low temperature is essential for ensuring the pecans bake evenly and develop that lovely crunchy coating.
• Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This step is crucial to prevent the pecans from sticking and to make cleanup a breeze later.
• In a small bowl, stir together ½ cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Mixing these together ensures an even distribution of flavors.
• In another large bowl, whisk together 1 egg white and 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract until frothy. If you have an electric mixer, feel free to use it for a quicker result.
• Add in 1 pound of pecan halves to the egg mixture. Stir carefully to coat each pecan evenly with the mixture.
• Gradually sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the pecans, stirring continuously to make sure all the nuts are coated in that sugary goodness.
• Spread the coated pecans onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. This helps them cook evenly and prevents clumping.
• Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, stirring the nuts every 15 to 20 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as they should become fragrant and the sugar coating will harden.
• Once done, allow the pecans to cool completely on the baking sheet. This is an important step, as they will crisp up as they cool down.
• Enjoy your Candied Pecans right away, or store them in an airtight container for later. They make a fantastic snack!

Notes

• Storage: Keep your pecans in an airtight container to maintain freshness and crunchiness.
• Freezing: Yes, you can freeze them! Just ensure they are in a sealed bag.
• Pairing: These pecans are perfect for salads, desserts, or simply enjoyed as a snack on their own!

Keyword Candied Pecans Recipe, easy Candied Pecans, homemade Candied Pecans, how to make Candied Pecans

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Meet Eva Sterling

I have a restless palate and I love that our blog covers such a wide range of food. I am always excited to cook something we haven’t tried before. I jump into every cooking session with enthusiasm, ready to chop, sauté, bake, or grill. I love the collaborative energy of our kitchen we all learn from each other, and that makes every dish we publish better.