Candied Pecans

Sweet and crunchy, these candied pecans are coated in a delightful cinnamon-sugar glaze. Perfect as a snack, salad topping, or dessert garnish, they add a burst of flavor to any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Versatile: Great for snacking, gifting, or enhancing dishes like salads and desserts.
• Quick and Easy: Simple ingredients and minimal prep make this a go-to recipe.
• Perfectly Balanced: Sweet, spiced, and buttery with a satisfying crunch.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A favorite for holiday gatherings, parties, or everyday indulgence.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 cups raw pecan halves
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Directions

Preheat Oven

Set your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir to mix evenly.

Make the Syrup

1. In a medium saucepan, combine water, vanilla extract, and butter.
2. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the butter melts and the mixture becomes smooth.

Coat the Pecans

1. Add the raw pecan halves to the saucepan with the syrup.
2. Stir well to ensure all the pecans are evenly coated.

Add the Sugar Mixture

Gradually sprinkle the sugar mixture over the pecans while stirring continuously. This helps the sugar adhere evenly to the pecans.

Bake

1. Spread the coated pecans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
2. Bake for 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even caramelization.
3. Remove from the oven and let the pecans cool completely.

Serve or Store

Enjoy the pecans immediately or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8 (approximately 1/4 cup per serving)
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Spiced Pecans: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or nutmeg for a spiced twist.
• Maple Syrup: Substitute half of the sugar with maple syrup for a richer flavor.
• Mixed Nuts: Use a blend of pecans, almonds, and walnuts for variety.
• Vanilla-Free: Skip the vanilla extract for a simpler flavor profile.
• Vegan Option: Replace the butter with a plant-based alternative.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Let thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: Warm briefly in a low oven (250°F/120°C) for a few minutes to refresh their crunch.

FAQs

1. Can I use other nuts for this recipe?

Yes, this recipe works with almonds, walnuts, or cashews.

2. How do I prevent the pecans from clumping together?

Stir them halfway through baking to ensure even coating and separation.

3. Can I make this recipe without brown sugar?

Yes, substitute the brown sugar with more granulated sugar or coconut sugar.

4. Are these pecans gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

5. How do I know when the pecans are done baking?

The pecans should look glossy and slightly dry but not burnt.

6. Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?

Yes, you can reduce the sugar by 25%, but the texture may be less caramelized.

7. What if I don’t have parchment paper?

Use a silicone baking mat or lightly grease the baking sheet with butter or oil.

8. Can I add other spices?

Absolutely! Try adding nutmeg, allspice, or even a hint of cardamom for extra flavor.

9. How do I ensure an even coating?

Stir the pecans thoroughly in the syrup and sugar mixture before baking.

10. Can I use salted butter?

Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe by half to avoid oversalting.

Conclusion

Candied pecans are a sweet and versatile treat that’s as easy to make as they are delicious. Whether you’re snacking, gifting, or garnishing your favorite dishes, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Make a batch today and savor the irresistible crunch!

Candied Pecans

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• Author: Asma
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Sweet, crunchy candied pecans coated in a cinnamon-sugar glaze make the perfect snack, dessert topping, or salad enhancer. Easy to make and irresistibly delicious!

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Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups raw pecan halves
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Set oven to 300°F (150°C).
   • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   • In a medium bowl, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
3. Make Syrup:
   • In a saucepan, combine water, vanilla extract, and butter.
   • Heat over medium heat until butter melts and the mixture is smooth.
4. Coat Pecans:
   • Add pecans to the syrup and stir until evenly coated.
   • Gradually sprinkle the sugar mixture over the pecans, stirring to coat evenly.
5. Bake Pecans:
   • Spread coated pecans evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
   • Bake for 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway through for even caramelization.
6. Cool and Store:
   • Remove from oven and let cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.

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Notes

• For a spiced twist, add a pinch of nutmeg or cayenne pepper to the sugar mixture.
• These pecans make an excellent homemade gift when packaged in decorative jars.