Candied Pecans

There’s something truly magical about the aroma of Candied Pecans wafting through your kitchen. The sweet, nutty scent brings back memories of cozy fall afternoons spent with family, laughter mingling with the sounds of rustling leaves outside. I fondly recall my grandmother’s kitchen, where she would always have a batch of these delightful treats on hand, perfect for snacking or adding a touch of sweetness to salads and desserts. Making Candied Pecans is not just a cooking task; it’s a nostalgic experience that wraps you in warmth and comfort. The process is simple yet satisfying, and the end result is a crunchy, sweet treat that can elevate any dish it graces. So, whether you’re planning a holiday gathering or simply want a delicious snack to enjoy on your own, let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

What to Gather for Candied Pecans

The ingredients for Candied Pecans are simple yet essential for creating that perfect sweet crunch. Each ingredient plays a vital role in achieving the delightful flavor and texture we crave. The combination of pecans, sugars, and spices makes for a heavenly treat that is both satisfying and indulgent. Let’s take a look at the key players that will bring this recipe to life!

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar – This is the primary sweetener that gives our Candied Pecans its delightful sweetness.
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar – Adds a rich, caramel-like flavor and helps create the perfect coating for the pecans.
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon – A warm spice that enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Balances out the sweetness and enhances the flavors of other ingredients.
• 4 cups unsalted pecan halves – The star of the show, these nuts provide crunch and richness.
• 1 egg white – Helps bind the sugars to the pecans for a even coating.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a subtle layer of flavor that complements the sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon water – Helps to dissolve the sugars and egg white for better coating.

How to Cook Candied Pecans

Making Candied Pecans is an enjoyable process that brings the kitchen to life with sweet aromas. Follow along as we transform simple ingredients into a delectable snack. Let’s get started on these delicious treats!

1. Preheat your oven to 300 degrees F. It’s important to get the oven nice and hot to ensure even cooking. Line a large baking sheet with a Silpat baking mat or parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt. Whisk until everything is well mixed. Setting this mixture aside allows the flavors to blend beautifully.
3. In a large bowl, whisk the egg white, vanilla extract, and water together until frothy. This is crucial as it will help coat the pecans and create that delicious sugary crust.
4. Add the pecans to the egg mixture and gently toss them until they are well coated. Make sure each pecan is enveloped in that frothy goodness.
5. Next, add the sugar and cinnamon mixture to the bowl with the coated pecans. Toss again until every nut is covered in sweet, sticky goodness.
6. Spread the pecans out in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding them, as this ensures they cook evenly and get that perfect crunch.
7. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 to 45 minutes. Be sure to stir the pecans every 15 minutes to ensure they bake evenly. Watch them closely as they cook; the sugar mixture will begin to harden.
8. Once they’re done baking, remove the pecans from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet. This helps them to harden even more.
9. When completely cool, store your Candied Pecans in an airtight container. They can last for up to a month, allowing you to enjoy them for weeks to come!

Make It Your Own

There are so many ways to customize your Candied Pecans to suit your taste! Whether you want to add a unique twist or simply modify the recipe to your liking, the following tips will guide you. Let’s explore some creative ideas!

• Storage: Store your Candied Pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one month. This keeps them fresh and crunchy, ready to enjoy anytime.
• Freezing: You can freeze these Candied Pecans in an airtight container for up to three months. Just thaw them at room temperature before enjoying!
• Pairing: Serve them alongside cheese platters for a delightful contrast of flavors. They also go well atop salads or as an ice cream topping.
• Flavor Variations: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or experiment by substituting different nuts like almonds or walnuts.
• Healthier Alternatives: Consider using a sugar substitute or reduce the amount of sugar for a lower-calorie version!
• Gift Ideas: Package your Candied Pecans in decorative jars as homemade gifts. They’re thoughtful, delicious, and sure to please!

What to Serve Alongside Candied Pecans

• Salads: Sprinkle Candied Pecans on salads for added sweetness and crunch. They pair wonderfully with mixed greens, goat cheese, and dried cranberries.
• Cheese Boards: These nuts are an excellent addition to cheese boards. Their sweetness balances out rich cheeses and complements a variety of flavors.
• Breakfast Treat: Use Candied Pecans to top yogurt or oatmeal for breakfast, adding a delightful crunch and natural sweetness.
• Holiday Celebrations: Perfect for holiday gatherings, these treats can be served in decorative bowls as snacks or party favors.
• Seasonal Desserts: Use Candied Pecans as a topping for seasonal desserts like pumpkin pie or sweet potato casserole for a festive touch.
• Storing Tips: Keep your Candied Pecans in a cool, dry place, and ensure the container is sealed to maintain their crunchiness.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Candied Pecans are a delightful treat that combines sweetness and crunch in every bite. They’re perfect for snacking, gifting, or enhancing your favorite dishes. I encourage you to try making them at home, as they are truly a joy to prepare and share. Your friends and family will love them, and you might just find them becoming your favorite go-to snack!

Candied Pecans

The ultimate sweet snack, Candied Pecans are crunchy, flavorful, and utterly irresistible. Made with simple ingredients, they offer a delightful crunch and sweetness that's perfect for snacking or decorating your favorite dishes. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this easy recipe that’s perfect for any occasion!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 16 servings

Course: Snacks

Cuisine: American

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 cups unsalted pecans halves
• 1 egg white
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon water

Equipment

• Baking Sheets

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 300 degrees F. It’s important to get the oven nice and hot to ensure even cooking. Line a large baking sheet with a Silpat baking mat or parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt. Whisk until everything is well mixed. Setting this mixture aside allows the flavors to blend beautifully.
3. In a large bowl, whisk the egg white, vanilla extract, and water together until frothy. This is crucial as it will help coat the pecans and create that delicious sugary crust.
4. Add the pecans to the egg mixture and gently toss them until they are well coated. Make sure each pecan is enveloped in that frothy goodness.
5. Next, add the sugar and cinnamon mixture to the bowl with the coated pecans. Toss again until every nut is covered in sweet, sticky goodness.
6. Spread the pecans out in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding them, as this ensures they cook evenly and get that perfect crunch.
7. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 to 45 minutes. Be sure to stir the pecans every 15 minutes to ensure they bake evenly. Watch them closely as they cook; the sugar mixture will begin to harden.
8. Once they’re done baking, remove the pecans from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet. This helps them to harden even more.
9. When completely cool, store your Candied Pecans in an airtight container. They can last for up to a month, allowing you to enjoy them for weeks to come!

Notes

• Tip 1: Store your Candied Pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one month. This keeps them fresh and crunchy, ready to enjoy anytime.
• Tip 2: You can freeze these Candied Pecans in an airtight container for up to three months. Just thaw them at room temperature before enjoying!
• Tip 3: Serve them alongside cheese platters for a delightful contrast of flavors. They also go well atop salads or as an ice cream topping.
• Tip 4: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or experiment by substituting different nuts like almonds or walnuts.
• Tip 5: Consider using a sugar substitute or reduce the amount of sugar for a lower-calorie version!
• Tip 6: Package your Candied Pecans in decorative jars as homemade gifts. They’re thoughtful, delicious, and sure to please!

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Meet Fiona Lewis

I love cooking with the seasons and keeping things rustic and real. I believe the best meals are the ones shared with friends and family. I had so much fun creating this recipe, and I can't wait to hear what you think of it!