If you have ever craved a snack that perfectly balances crunchy texture with a sweet, spicy kick, you need to try this Candied Pecans Recipe. It turns simple raw pecans into irresistible morsels coated with a cinnamon-sugar glaze that’s baked to crispy perfection. Whether you want to jazz up your salads, gift them during the holidays, or just enjoy a cozy treat, these candied pecans offer that magical blend of warmth, sweetness, and a touch of vanilla that feels like a hug in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Candied Pecans Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating that perfect coating and flavor balance, elevating raw pecans to a delightful treat.
- 2 cups raw pecan halves: The star of the show, providing buttery, crunchy goodness.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds the essential sweet coating; can be swapped for brown sugar for richer depth.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Brings warm, aromatic spice that pairs beautifully with pecans.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing sweetness perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Introduces subtle complexity and warmth to the sugar glaze.
- 1 egg white: Acts as the binding agent to help the sugar mixture stick evenly.
- 1 tablespoon water: Whisked with egg white for the perfect light frothiness that coats the nuts.
How to Make Candied Pecans Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit (150 degrees Celsius) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures even baking and keeps your pecans from sticking, making cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Whisk the Egg White Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the egg white and water until you create a frothy mix. Then stir in the vanilla extract. This mixture is essential because it helps the sugar and spices cling lovingly to each pecan.
Step 3: Coat the Pecans
Toss your pecan halves into the egg white mixture until they are all fully coated. This step is where the magic begins—each pecan gets a smooth, even layer that will hold the sugary spice blend to perfection.
Step 4: Mix the Sugar and Spices
In a separate bowl, combine the granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt. This blend is your flavor powerhouse, giving those pecans their signature sweet and spicy charm.
Step 5: Combine and Coat Again
Sprinkle the sugar-spice mixture over the egg-white-coated pecans and stir gently until every nut is evenly dusted. The combination should make your kitchen smell heavenly right about now!
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Spread the pecans out in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Place them in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. Be sure to stir every 15 minutes—this keeps them baking evenly and helps develop that irresistibly crisp coating and golden color.
Step 7: Cool Completely
Once out of the oven, let your candied pecans cool fully on the baking sheet. Cooling is key because it lets the sugar coating harden into a perfect crunchy shell that gives you that satisfying crunch with every bite.
How to Serve Candied Pecans Recipe
Garnishes
Candied pecans make stunning garnishes. Sprinkle them on top of salads for texture and a dash of sweetness, or crumble them over desserts like ice cream or cheesecake to add a delightful crunch and depth of flavor.
Side Dishes
Serve these pecans alongside cheese boards or with roasted vegetables to bring a sweet-spicy contrast that surprises and delights your guests. Their versatility means they fit beautifully in many dinner spread styles.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or gifts, package your candied pecans in decorative jars or cellophane bags tied with a ribbon. They also make a fabulous topping for oatmeal, yogurt bowls, or even morning pancakes, adding that extra wow factor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your candied pecans, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh and crunchy for up to two weeks, making them a convenient and delicious snack that’s ready whenever you are.
Freezing
If you want to keep them even longer, freeze your candied pecans in a sealed container. Properly stored, they can last for several months and can be thawed quickly before use.
Reheating
To revive their crispiness, gently warm the pecans in a low oven for a few minutes or in a skillet over low heat. This little trick freshens up their texture without melting the sugary coating.
FAQs
Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?
Absolutely! Brown sugar adds a richer, more molasses-like flavor to your candied pecans, taking the sweetness in a deeper, more caramel direction—perfect for fall and winter treats.
Do I have to use egg white in the recipe?
The egg white is key for binding the sugar and spices to the pecans while baking. If you prefer to avoid eggs, you might try using a light syrup or honey, but results may vary in crispness and coating.
How long do candied pecans keep their crunch?
Stored properly at room temperature in an airtight container, the pecans will stay crunchy for about two weeks. Beyond that, they might soften but will still taste delicious.
Can I add other spices to this recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with nutmeg, ginger, or even a pinch of cayenne for a bit of heat. This Candied Pecans Recipe is wonderfully adaptable to your favorite spice combinations.
Are candied pecans suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, since the recipe uses egg white but no meat products, it’s suitable for vegetarians who include eggs in their diet.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting about homemade candied pecans that store-bought versions just can’t match. I can’t recommend this Candied Pecans Recipe enough for anyone looking to add a warm, sweet crunch to their snack repertoire, salads, or gifts. Give it a try and see how these little treats become a big favorite in your kitchen!
Print
Candied Pecans Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these crunchy and sweet Candied Pecans, coated with a perfect blend of cinnamon, sugar, and vanilla. This easy-to-make snack is baked to crispy perfection and offers a flavorful treat that’s ideal for holidays, parties, or simply enjoying anytime you crave a sweet and nutty bite.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 cups raw pecan halves
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg white
- 1 tablespoon water
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare Egg White Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the egg white and water until frothy. Add the vanilla extract and mix thoroughly to infuse the nuts with a sweet aroma.
- Coat Pecans: Toss the raw pecan halves into the egg white mixture, making sure each pecan is evenly coated to help the sugar mixture adhere.
- Mix Sugar Coating: In a separate bowl, combine the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt. Sprinkle this mixture over the coated pecans and stir thoroughly to cover the nuts evenly.
- Bake Pecans: Spread the coated pecans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even roasting and caramelization until the pecans are golden brown and crunchy.
- Cool and Store: Remove the pecans from the oven and allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, serve immediately or store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks to keep the pecans fresh and crunchy.
- You can substitute brown sugar for granulated sugar if you prefer a richer, deeper flavor.
