Candied Pecans Recipe

Sweet, crunchy, and full of flavor, these Candied Pecans are the perfect snack for any occasion. With a touch of cinnamon and vanilla, they are caramelized to perfection, making them a great addition to salads, desserts, or simply enjoyed on their own. This easy-to-make recipe will fill your kitchen with a wonderful aroma, and the result is a treat that’s sure to please everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Candied pecans are an irresistible combination of sweet and nutty flavors, enhanced by the warmth of cinnamon and vanilla. This recipe is quick to prepare and requires only a handful of ingredients, making it ideal for a simple snack or a delicious topping for oatmeal, ice cream, or even roasted vegetables. The pecans are perfectly toasted in the oven, bringing out their natural flavor and crunch, while the sugar creates a golden, glossy coating. Whether you’re making them for yourself or for a gift, these candied pecans will be a crowd favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 cup pecan halves

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

• 1/8 teaspoon salt

• 1 tablespoon water

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sugar, cinnamon, salt, and water, stirring until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is smooth.

3. Add the pecans to the saucepan and stir until they are evenly coated with the sugar mixture.

4. Spread the pecans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

5. Bake for 10-12 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the pecans are golden brown and fragrant.

6. Remove from the oven and immediately stir in the vanilla extract.

7. Allow the candied pecans to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6 servings

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cooking Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

1. Spicy Candied Pecans: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the sugar mixture for a sweet and spicy flavor.

2. Maple Candied Pecans: Replace the granulated sugar with maple syrup for a deeper, more complex sweetness.

3. Chocolate-Dipped Candied Pecans: After cooling, dip the pecans halfway in melted chocolate for an extra indulgent treat.

4. Candied Pecan Clusters: Instead of spreading the pecans in a single layer, allow them to clump together on the baking sheet to create little clusters.

5. Nut-Free Option: Use the same recipe with other nuts, like almonds or walnuts, for a different twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cooled candied pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you’d like to keep them for a longer period, you can refrigerate them to maintain their freshness. For a bit of extra crispness, you can also reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of nut for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute pecans with other nuts such as almonds, walnuts, or cashews. Each nut will have a slightly different flavor but will work well with the candied coating.

Can I make candied pecans ahead of time?

Yes, you can make these candied pecans ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container, and they will stay fresh for up to a week at room temperature.

Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?

Yes, brown sugar can be used in place of granulated sugar for a richer flavor. You can use light or dark brown sugar depending on your preference.

How do I know when the pecans are done?

The pecans are done when they are golden brown and fragrant. Be sure to stir them halfway through the baking time to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.

How do I prevent the candied pecans from sticking together?

Make sure the pecans cool completely before storing them, as this will help prevent them from sticking together. If they do clump, gently break them apart with your fingers.

Can I use salted pecans for this recipe?

You can use salted pecans, but be mindful of the salt added in the recipe. If you use salted pecans, you may want to reduce or omit the added salt.

Can I make these candied pecans vegan?

Yes, to make the recipe vegan, simply substitute the unsalted butter with a vegan butter or coconut oil, and you’re good to go!

Can I use a different spice instead of cinnamon?

Yes! You can try using nutmeg, cardamom, or allspice for a different flavor profile. A mix of your favorite warming spices can add a unique twist.

Can I freeze candied pecans?

Yes, you can freeze candied pecans for up to 3 months. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag to keep them fresh.

Can I add other ingredients to the pecans?

Certainly! You can add other ingredients such as shredded coconut, dried fruit, or even a sprinkle of sea salt after baking for added texture and flavor.

Conclusion

These Candied Pecans are a sweet, crunchy treat that’s perfect for snacking, gifting, or adding a delicious touch to salads, desserts, or oatmeal. With just a few simple ingredients and a short time in the oven, you can create a delightful homemade snack that everyone will love. Whether you enjoy them on their own or as part of another dish, these candied pecans are sure to be a new favorite in your kitchen!

Candied Pecans Recipe

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• Author: Paula
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

These Candied Pecans are the ultimate sweet and crunchy snack! With the warm flavors of cinnamon and vanilla, these pecans are caramelized to perfection for a delightful treat. Whether you enjoy them on their own, in salads, or as a topping for oatmeal, they’re sure to please everyone. This easy recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for snacking or gifting!

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Ingredients

1 cup pecan halves

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

1/8 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon water

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

• In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sugar, cinnamon, salt, and water, stirring until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is smooth.

• Add the pecans to the saucepan and stir until they are evenly coated with the sugar mixture.

• Spread the pecans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

• Bake for 10-12 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the pecans are golden brown and fragrant.

• Remove from the oven and immediately stir in the vanilla extract.

• Allow the candied pecans to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container.

Notes

Variations:

Spicy Candied Pecans: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a sweet and spicy twist.

Maple Candied Pecans: Substitute maple syrup for granulated sugar for a rich, complex sweetness.

Chocolate-Dipped Candied Pecans: After cooling, dip the pecans halfway in melted chocolate for an extra indulgent treat.

Nut-Free Option: Use almonds, walnuts, or cashews for a different flavor.

Storage/Reheating: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, refrigerate them. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes to regain crispiness.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Snack, Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American