Candied Pecans

Candied pecans are a classic treat that combines sweetness, crunch, and a touch of spice in every bite. They’re incredibly versatile, making them the perfect topping for salads, desserts, holiday charcuterie boards, or simply as a satisfying snack on their own. With just a few pantry staples and less than an hour of baking time, you can whip up a batch of homemade candied pecans that taste better than anything you’ll find in a store. This recipe is simple, foolproof, and a favorite for gifting during the holiday season.

Ingredients

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 egg white
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 pound pecans

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. In a small bowl, combine sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together egg white and water until light and frothy.
4. Add pecan halves to the egg white mixture and toss to coat evenly.
5. Sprinkle the sugar mixture over the pecans and stir until fully coated.
6. Spread the coated pecans evenly onto the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pecans are golden brown and the sugar has caramelized.

Serving and Storage Tips

Candied pecans are best enjoyed once cooled, when they become extra crunchy and flavorful. Serve them as a snack on their own, sprinkled over green salads, folded into yogurt parfaits, or used as a topping for cakes, pies, and ice cream. They’re also a favorite addition to cheese boards and charcuterie platters. To store, place cooled pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed bag for up to 2 months; simply let them come to room temperature before serving.

Variations

• Spicy Candied Pecans: Mix ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper into the sugar blend for a bold sweet-and-spicy snack.
• Maple Cinnamon Pecans: Replace 2 tablespoons of sugar with pure maple syrup for a warm, earthy sweetness.
• Vanilla Bean Pecans: Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the egg white mixture for an aromatic twist.
• Brown Sugar Caramel Pecans: Swap half of the granulated sugar with brown sugar for a rich, deeper caramel flavor.
• Pumpkin Spice Pecans: Use 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice instead of cinnamon for a festive fall variation.
• Chocolate Drizzle Pecans: After cooling, drizzle with melted dark or white chocolate for a decadent treat.
• Honey Glazed Pecans: Add 2 tablespoons of honey to the egg white mixture for a stickier, glossy coating.
• Orange Zest Pecans: Stir 1 teaspoon of orange zest into the sugar mix for a bright citrus flavor.
• Salted Caramel Pecans: Add a sprinkle of coarse sea salt after baking for a sweet-and-salty balance.
• Coconut Candied Pecans: Add 2 tablespoons shredded coconut before baking for a tropical twist.
• Espresso Candied Pecans: Add 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder to the sugar mixture for a deep, coffee-flavored kick that pairs beautifully with chocolate desserts.
• Gingerbread Pecans: Mix ½ teaspoon ground ginger, ¼ teaspoon nutmeg, and ¼ teaspoon cloves with the cinnamon to create a festive holiday flavor.
• Chai Spiced Pecans: Add cardamom, allspice, ginger, and a hint of black pepper to mimic warming chai spices.
• Cocoa Candied Pecans: Stir 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder into the sugar mixture for a subtle chocolatey crunch.
• Bourbon Candied Pecans: Add 1 tablespoon bourbon to the egg white mixture for a rich, smoky undertone (perfect for grown-up snacking).
• Apple Pie Pecans: Mix in ½ teaspoon apple pie spice with the sugar blend for a fruity, cinnamon-apple warmth.
• Rosemary Sea Salt Pecans: Add 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh rosemary and sprinkle with sea salt after baking for a savory-sweet flavor.
• Lemon Sugar Pecans: Add 1 teaspoon lemon zest into the sugar mixture for a bright citrus twist.
• Molasses Candied Pecans: Swap 2 tablespoons sugar with molasses for a deeper, old-fashioned caramel taste.
• Peanut Butter Glazed Pecans: Toss cooled pecans with 2 tablespoons melted peanut butter mixed with a touch of powdered sugar for a nutty, sweet layer.
• Peppermint Crunch Pecans: Add crushed peppermint candies after baking for a holiday-ready treat.
• Toffee Candied Pecans: Stir in ¼ cup crushed toffee bits after baking while still warm for an extra caramel crunch.
• Smoky Paprika Pecans: Add ½ teaspoon smoked paprika to the sugar mix for a sweet, smoky flavor that pairs well with savory dishes.
• Cinnamon Roll Pecans: Add ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg and drizzle cooled pecans with a light glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.

FAQs

1. Can I use parchment paper or foil for baking?
   Yes, parchment paper works best to prevent sticking, but foil can also be used if lightly greased.
2. How do I prevent my pecans from burning?
   Stir the pecans every 10–15 minutes while baking to ensure even caramelization and avoid burning.
3. Can I make these pecans in advance for holidays?
   Absolutely! They can be made a week or two ahead and stored in an airtight container.
4. Do candied pecans need to be refrigerated?
   No, refrigeration is not necessary and may cause them to lose their crunch. Room temperature storage is best.
5. Can I reduce the baking time?
   They need about 40 minutes for the sugar to fully caramelize. Cutting the time short may leave them sticky.
6. How do I get the sugar coating to stick evenly?
   Make sure the pecans are well-coated in the egg white mixture before adding the sugar mixture. Toss until all pecans are covered.
7. Are candied pecans keto-friendly?
   Not as written, but you can substitute the sugar with a keto-approved sweetener like monk fruit or erythritol.
8. What can I use candied pecans for besides snacking?
   They’re delicious on oatmeal, mixed into granola, added to muffins, or used as a topping for roasted vegetables.
9. Can I make candied pecans in the microwave?
   Not recommended, since they won’t caramelize properly. The oven ensures even roasting and crunch.
10. Why did my candied pecans turn out chewy instead of crunchy?
    They may need a little more baking time. Once cooled, they should be crisp; if chewy, pop them back in the oven for 5–10 minutes.

Candied pecans are the perfect blend of sweet, crunchy, and spiced flavor. With a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a delicious snack or topping that elevates salads, desserts, and holiday platters. Whether you enjoy them plain, spiced, or with a maple twist, this recipe is a must-have in your collection.

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