There is something truly magical about the crunch and sweetness of homemade candied pecans, and this Candied Pecans Recipe captures that magic perfectly. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a batch of glossy, cinnamon-kissed nuts that are both addictive and versatile. Whether you’re looking to sprinkle them on salads, gift them to friends, or simply enjoy a crunchy, sweet treat, this recipe brings warmth and flavor in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet vital ingredients is the first step toward your scrumptious candied pecans. Each element plays an important role: the pecans provide the rich, nutty base; sugar and cinnamon add the perfect sweet-spicy balance; salt enhances all the flavors; water helps dissolve the sugar for that perfect coating; and vanilla extract brings in a warm aroma that ties everything together beautifully.
- Pecan halves: About 4 cups, they offer a buttery crunch and the perfect texture for candying.
- Granulated sugar: One cup to create that shiny, caramelized coating that makes your pecans irresistible.
- Ground cinnamon: One teaspoon introduces a cozy spice that complements the natural nuttiness.
- Salt: Half a teaspoon to elevate all the flavors and cut through the sweetness.
- Water: A quarter cup to help dissolve the sugar evenly and bind the coating.
- Vanilla extract: One teaspoon adds subtle warmth and depth to the final flavor profile.
How to Make Candied Pecans Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep those pecans from sticking and to make cleanup a breeze. This step sets the stage for even baking and crisp, crunchy results.
Step 2: Create the Cinnamon Sugar Syrup
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, cinnamon, salt, and water. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves, then let the mixture come to a simmer. This is where the magic of the sweet-spicy coating starts taking shape.
Step 3: Stir in Vanilla and Coat the Pecans
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract for that lovely aromatic boost. Immediately add the pecans to the syrup and stir so every nut is evenly coated with that luscious mixture. This step ensures each pecan gets the perfect flavor hug.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Spread the coated pecans in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Bake them in the oven for 35 to 40 minutes, stirring every 10 to 15 minutes to prevent sticking and to encourage an even, crunchy coating. Keep a close eye so they don’t burn – you want golden and glossy, not bitter.
Step 5: Cool Completely
Once baked, remove the pecans from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet. As they cool, the coating hardens into that perfectly crisp candy shell you know and love. Patience here is key because that wait transforms the texture beautifully.
How to Serve Candied Pecans Recipe
Garnishes
Candied pecans make an exquisite garnish for sweet or savory dishes. Sprinkle them over salads, especially those with bitter greens and tangy cheeses, to add a delightful crunch and a hit of sweetness. They’re also stunning atop desserts like ice cream, yogurt, or even spiced cakes for that festive touch.
Side Dishes
Adding candied pecans to your side dishes elevates the entire meal. Toss them into roasted vegetable medleys or sprinkle over Brussels sprouts for a sophisticated twist. They also pair gorgeously with creamy mashed potatoes or as a crunchy topping for savory rice dishes, balancing richness with their sweet snap.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress guests or gift someone a thoughtful treat? Present your candied pecans in decorative jars tied with ribbon or layer them in clear bags with personalized tags. You can also mix them into homemade granola or incorporate them into trail mix for a personalized snack that’s both beautiful and delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your candied pecans have fully cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will keep their crunch and flavor for up to two weeks, making them a perfect make-ahead snack or gift option. Avoid humid environments to prevent the coating from becoming sticky.
Freezing
If you want to keep your candied pecans fresh for longer, freezing is an excellent option. Place them in a sealed freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll maintain their texture for up to three months. When it’s time to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature.
Reheating
To bring back that freshly baked crunch, warm the candied pecans briefly in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes. This simple reheating refreshes the coating’s crispness without melting the sugar, making them taste like they were just made.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! While this Candied Pecans Recipe shines with pecans, you can substitute walnuts, almonds, or cashews. Just adjust the baking time slightly as some nuts toast faster.
How do I prevent the candied coating from becoming sticky?
Make sure to cool the nuts completely on parchment or a silicone mat in a single layer. Storing them properly in airtight containers away from moisture is also crucial to keep them crisp.
Can I add other spices to the recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with nutmeg, cardamom, or even a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick. These variations can add a fun twist to your Candied Pecans Recipe.
Is this recipe gluten-free and vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly, making it suitable for a variety of dietary preferences without any substitutions.
What can I do if the sugar hardens too quickly?
If the sugar syrup starts hardening before coating the pecans fully, work swiftly to toss the nuts evenly. You can keep the syrup warm on low heat, but avoid letting it burn or boil again.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Candied Pecans Recipe, it’s hard not to fall in love with its perfect balance of sweet, spice, and crunch. These pecans bring so much joy whether you’re snacking solo, decorating a dish, or gifting someone special. Trust me, once you taste the homemade difference, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them!
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Candied Pecans Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free, Vegetarian
Description
These perfectly sweet and crunchy candied pecans are coated in a cinnamon-sugar glaze and baked to golden perfection. Ideal for holiday snacks, salad toppings, or thoughtful homemade gifts, this easy recipe delivers rich flavor with a delightful crisp texture.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 pound (about 4 cups) pecan halves
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate cleanup.
- Prepare Sugar Mixture: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, salt, and water. Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to simmer, creating a syrup base for the pecans.
- Add Vanilla and Pecans: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Immediately add the pecan halves to the syrup and stir well to coat every pecan evenly with the cinnamon sugar glaze.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the coated pecans in a single, even layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensuring they are spread out helps them bake evenly and crisp up properly.
- Bake and Stir: Bake the pecans for 35 to 40 minutes, stirring every 10 to 15 minutes to prevent burning and to ensure the glaze caramelizes evenly on all sides.
- Cool Completely: When done, remove the pecans from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet. As they cool, they will harden and become delightfully crisp.
- Store: Once cooled, store the candied pecans in an airtight container to maintain freshness and crunch.
Notes
- For a richer, more complex flavor, substitute half the water in the sugar mixture with pure maple syrup.
- These candied pecans make excellent holiday gifts or add a sweet crunch to salads and desserts.
- Using parchment paper or a silicone baking mat is essential to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
