Introduction
Candied Pecans are a sweet, crunchy treat, perfect for snacking, gifting, or topping salads and desserts. This classic recipe, featuring caramelized sugar coating glossy pecans with warm cinnamon and vanilla notes, delivers irresistible, crowd-pleasing flavor with a satisfying snap. Roasted until golden and presented in a white ceramic bowl, optionally garnished with a light dusting of flaky sea salt, this Candied Pecans recipe offers a warm, elegant aesthetic that elevates any occasion. This recipe provides a simple stovetop method with pantry staples, adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for home cooks seeking a go-to sweet that brings cozy, delightful charm to any moment.
Ingredients
For the Candied Pecans:
- 2 cups pecan halves
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 large egg white
- 1 tbsp water
For Serving:
- Optional: Flaky sea salt
- Suggested Accompaniments: Cheese board, yogurt parfait, spinach salad
- Suggested Pairings: Coffee, hot cider
- Suggested Aesthetic: Serve in a white ceramic bowl
- Suggested Equipment: Baking sheet, parchment paper, large mixing bowl, whisk, medium saucepan
Step-by-Step Process
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Whisk Egg White: In a large bowl, whisk egg white and water until frothy (about 1 minute). Add vanilla extract.
- Coat Pecans: Add pecans to the egg white mixture. Stir gently until fully coated.
- Mix Sugar Coating: In a separate bowl, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Sprinkle over the pecans and toss until evenly coated.
- Bake: Spread pecans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 30–35 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, until the coating is dry and caramelized.
- Cool and Crisp: Remove from oven. Let cool completely on the baking sheet (about 20 minutes); they will crisp as they cool. Taste one and adjust future batches with more salt or cinnamon if desired.
- Serve: Transfer to a white ceramic bowl. Optionally sprinkle with flaky sea salt. Serve as a snack, salad topping, or gift, paired with coffee or hot cider.
Tips for Better Candied Pecans
- Use fresh, high-quality pecans for the best flavor and crunch.
- Whisk egg white to soft peaks for a light, even coating.
- Stir every 10 minutes during baking to prevent clumping and ensure even caramelization.
- Cool completely on the baking sheet to achieve maximum crispness.
- Present in a white ceramic bowl to highlight the glossy, golden pecans.
- Make ahead: Prepare up to 2 weeks in advance; store in an airtight container.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Enhance aesthetic: Dust with sea salt for a sweet-salty, elegant pop.
Variations and Customization
- Gluten-Free Candied Pecans: Naturally gluten-free.
- Vegan Candied Pecans: Replace egg white with 2 tbsp aquafaba (chickpea liquid); whisk to frothy peaks.
- Low-Sugar Candied Pecans: Use sugar-free sweetener (e.g., monk fruit) in equal amounts.
- Spicy Candied Pecans: Add ¼ tsp cayenne or chili powder to the sugar mix.
- Maple Candied Pecans: Replace granulated sugar with ½ cup pure maple syrup; extend bake time by 5–10 minutes.
- Chocolate-Dipped Candied Pecans: Dip cooled pecans in melted dark chocolate.
- Herb Candied Pecans: Add ½ tsp dried rosemary or thyme for a savory twist.
- Candied Mixed Nuts: Use a blend of pecans, almonds, and walnuts.
Storage and Serving Tips
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks; add a silica packet to maintain crunch.
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature.
- Serve at room temperature for the best crunchy texture and bold flavor.
- Use as a snack, gift, or topping for salads, oatmeal, or ice cream.
- Pair with coffee or hot cider to complement the sweet, spiced notes.
- Presented in a white ceramic bowl with a light salt dusting for a warm, elegant charm.
Nutritional Information
Based on 8 servings (¼ cup each):
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 3g
- Vitamin A: 0% Daily Value
- Vitamin C: 0% Daily Value
- Calcium: 2% Daily Value
- Iron: 4% Daily Value
Note: Values vary by ingredient brands and substitutions (low-sugar or vegan options reduce sugars). High in healthy fats from pecans.
Conclusion
This Candied Pecans recipe delivers a sweet, crunchy treat perfect for snacking or gifting. It transforms simple ingredients into an irresistible favorite. Its straightforward preparation and elegant presentation make it a go-to. The glossy coating and warm spices delight with every bite. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its cozy, crowd-pleasing charm.
Candied Pecans Recipe: Sweet and Crunchy
Ingredients
- 2 cups pecan halves
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp vanilla
- 1 egg white
- 1 tbsp water
- Optional: Flaky sea salt
- Suggested Pairings: Coffee salad
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 300°F; line a baking sheet.
- Whisk egg white, water, and vanilla until frothy.
- Coat pecans in egg mixture.
- Mix sugars, cinnamon, and salt; toss with pecans.
- Spread on sheet; bake 30–35 min, stir every 10 min.
- Cool completely; break apart.
- Serve in a white ceramic bowl with salt.
Notes
- Stir during baking.
- Store at room temp 2 weeks or freeze 3 months.
- Try a spicy or vegan variation.
- Pair with yogurt.
