If you’re looking for a delicious snack that’s both sweet and crunchy, the Maple Glazed Pecans Recipe is a total winner. These pecans are perfectly coated in a luscious maple syrup glaze, enhanced with a hint of vanilla and just the right touch of salt to make your taste buds sing. Whether you want something for a cozy afternoon treat, a fancy salad topper, or a gift-worthy homemade snack, this recipe will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is the first step to making your Maple Glazed Pecans Recipe shine. Each component plays a crucial role: the pecans provide that rich nutty crunch, butter adds silky richness, and maple syrup brings the signature sweet depth that makes this dish unforgettable.
- 2 cups pecan halves: Choose fresh pecans to ensure maximum crunch and flavor.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Butter lends a creamy texture and balances the sweetness beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar: Adds warmth and caramel notes to the glaze.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Elevates the flavor with a subtle, aromatic sweetness.
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup: The star ingredient that creates that irresistible glaze and deep maple flavor.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances all other flavors and offers great contrast to the sweetness.
How to Make Maple Glazed Pecans Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and position the rack in the middle. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a Silpat mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. This simple prep sets you up for perfectly roasted pecans with flawless coating.
Step 2: Melt Butter and Brown Sugar
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter together with the brown sugar until smooth and combined. You can also melt them on the stovetop, whichever you prefer. Stir well to dissolve the sugar—it’s okay if a few sugar crystals remain; this adds a bit of texture to your glaze.
Step 3: Add Vanilla, Maple Syrup, and Salt
Now stir in the vanilla extract, pure maple syrup, and a pinch of salt. These ingredients unify to create the signature glaze that beautifully clings to every pecan half. Mix until the sugar is mostly dissolved and the mixture looks glossy.
Step 4: Coat the Pecans
Pour the pecans into the bowl and use a spatula or spoon to toss them thoroughly, ensuring each piece is evenly coated with the sweet maple glaze. This step seals in all the goodness, giving you that perfect balance of crunch and sweetness.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Spread the glazed pecans in a single, even layer across your prepared baking sheet. Bake them for 8 minutes, keeping an eye on their color to avoid burning. Stirring halfway is optional; it helps with even cooking but skipping it can save time without compromising the taste.
Step 6: Cool and Store
Once roasted to that glorious golden hue, let your pecans cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet. This cooling step allows the glaze to set perfectly, so don’t skip it! Transfer them to a ZipLoc bag or sealed container, and they’ll stay fresh for several days.
How to Serve Maple Glazed Pecans Recipe
Garnishes
Use these maple glazed pecans to add a delightful crunch and sweetness to salads, oatmeal, or even yogurt bowls. A sprinkle on top instantly transforms simple dishes into gourmet treats with contrasting textures and flavors.
Side Dishes
These pecans pair wonderfully with cheese plates, roasted vegetables, and fall-inspired dishes like butternut squash or roasted Brussels sprouts. Their sweet and savory profile complements savory sides with just the right amount of contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, consider serving them in decorative bowls alongside spiced nuts or dried fruit. You can even use them as unexpected cupcake toppings or fold them into your favorite granola bars for an extra maple boost and unbeatable crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover maple glazed pecans keep wonderfully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. This means you can make them ahead of time for a quick snack or party prep without worry.
Freezing
If you want to extend their shelf life, freeze the cooled pecans in a tightly sealed bag or container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature. They maintain their texture and flavor beautifully when frozen.
Reheating
To bring back that freshly roasted warmth and crunch, pop the pecans in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes or warm briefly in a pan over low heat. This refreshes the glaze without burning or softening their signature crispness.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts for this recipe?
Absolutely! While this Maple Glazed Pecans Recipe shines with pecans, feel free to try walnuts, almonds, or cashews. Just keep an eye on baking times as different nuts toast faster or slower.
Is it necessary to use pure maple syrup?
Using pure maple syrup provides the best authentic flavor and natural sweetness. Pancake syrups or artificial syrups won’t give the same rich depth of taste that makes this recipe special.
Can I make this recipe without butter?
Butter adds creaminess and helps the glaze stick, but you can substitute with coconut oil or a neutral oil for a dairy-free version. The texture and flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
How long do these maple glazed pecans last?
Stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, they last up to one week, and freezing can extend their shelf life to about three months.
Can I add spices to the glaze?
Definitely! Cinnamon, nutmeg, or a pinch of cayenne pepper can add a lovely twist to the classic glaze, making this recipe even more versatile for your taste preferences.
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve got this wonderful Maple Glazed Pecans Recipe tucked into your culinary toolkit, I encourage you to give it a try. These sweet, crunchy little gems bring warmth and happiness to any occasion. Whether as a snack, a thoughtful gift, or an elegant addition to your dishes, these pecans are sure to become a fast favorite that everyone will ask for again and again.
Print
Maple Glazed Pecans Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these sweet and crunchy Maple Pecans, coated with a rich blend of butter, brown sugar, vanilla, and pure maple syrup. Perfect as a snack, salad topping, or gift, these roasted pecans come together quickly and offer a delicious balance of sweet and nutty flavors.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 cups pecan halves
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and adjust the rack to the middle position for even heat circulation. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a Silpat non-stick mat to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Melt Butter and Sugar: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter with the brown sugar. Alternatively, you can melt them together on the stovetop. Stir thoroughly until combined to create a smooth, slightly caramelized mixture.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the vanilla extract, pure maple syrup, and a pinch of salt into the melted butter and sugar mixture. Continue stirring until the brown sugar is mostly dissolved; a few granules remaining is fine.
- Coat the Pecans: Add the pecan halves to the bowl and mix well to ensure each nut is thoroughly coated with the maple syrup mixture.
- Bake the Pecans: Spread the coated pecans evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake them in the oven for 8 minutes. For even roasting on both sides, you may stir them halfway through baking, but this step is optional.
- Cool and Store: Remove the pecans from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes. Once cooled, transfer to a ZipLoc bag or an airtight container to maintain freshness for several days.
Notes
- Make sure to watch the pecans closely while baking as the sugar can burn quickly at 400°F.
- Stirring halfway through baking helps ensure even coating and roasting but is optional.
- Store cooled pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- These pecans make a wonderful topping for salads, yogurt, or oatmeal, and are also great as a snack or gift.
