If you have ever craved the perfect sweet and crunchy snack that feels like a warm hug in every bite, then this Easy Candied Pecans Recipe is about to become your new best friend. With the perfect balance of cinnamon, sugar, and a hint of vanilla, these candied pecans offer a delightful crunch that’s ideal for snacking, sprinkling over salads, or jazzing up your favorite desserts. Every step brings out the rich, nutty flavor of pecans coated in a caramelized, spiced shell that’s simply irresistible. Get ready to fill your kitchen with the most inviting aromas and enjoy a treat that’s surprisingly simple yet remarkably delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is a breeze, and each one plays a key role in bringing this recipe to life. From the warm spices that add depth to the sweet sugars that create that beautiful glaze, every element works together for maximum flavor and texture.
- Granulated sugar: Adds the essential sweetness and helps create a crisp candy coating on the pecans.
- Light brown sugar: Brings a subtle molasses richness that deepens the flavor profile.
- Ground cinnamon: Infuses the nuts with a warm spice that complements the sweetness perfectly.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness for a well-rounded taste.
- Unsalted pecan halves: The star of the show, offering buttery crunch and natural nuttiness.
- Egg white: Acts as a binder that helps the sugar and spices adhere beautifully to the pecans.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a fragrant aroma that makes every bite even more indulgent.
- Water: Helps dissolve the sugar to create an even coating during the cooking process.
How to Make Easy Candied Pecans Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sugar Mixture
Start by combining granulated sugar, light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt in a medium bowl. This aromatic blend will be the foundation of that perfect candied crust. Mixing these dry ingredients thoroughly ensures that every pecan gets evenly coated with the sweetest, spiciest mix.
Step 2: Whip the Egg White
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg white along with water and vanilla extract until frothy. This simple mixture acts like a glue, allowing the sugar mixture to stick tightly to each pecan half and preventing clumps, resulting in a flawless candy shell once baked.
Step 3: Coat the Pecans
Add the pecan halves to the egg white mixture, stirring well to coat each nut evenly. Then, sprinkle the sugar and spice blend over the nuts and toss until every pecan is covered in that irresistible sugary goodness. Take your time here—perfect coating makes all the difference!
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Spread the coated pecans in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 250°F (120°C) for about 40 minutes. Be sure to stir the pecans every 10 minutes to promote even caramelization and prevent burning. As they bake, the sugars melt and crisp up, creating that mouthwatering candied exterior.
Step 5: Cool and Enjoy
Once perfectly baked, remove the pecans from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet. This helps them harden up into that satisfying crunch that makes this Easy Candied Pecans Recipe so special. After cooling, break up any clusters gently, and you’re ready to dig in!
How to Serve Easy Candied Pecans Recipe
Garnishes
Easy candied pecans make an unbeatable garnish for everything from warm autumn salads to creamy desserts like cheesecake or ice cream. Their crisp sweetness adds an exciting texture contrast and a burst of flavor that feels both elegant and comforting. Sprinkle them over roasted vegetables or even oatmeal to turn a simple dish into a showstopper.
Side Dishes
Pair these candied pecans with savory sides like roasted Brussels sprouts or glazed carrots to add a sweet crunch that enhances every bite. They also shine brilliantly alongside cheese boards, where their sugary spice pairs beautifully with sharp cheddars or creamy goat cheese, elevating your appetizer game effortlessly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, pack your Easy Candied Pecans Recipe in small mason jars tied with rustic twine or colorful ribbons—perfect gifts for friends or hostess treats. You can also crush them lightly and sprinkle over yogurt parfaits or mix into homemade granola bars for unexpected bursts of flavor and crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover candied pecans in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and crunchy for up to two weeks, making them perfect for grabbing as a quick snack or adding to recipes throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to keep your candied pecans fresh for even longer, freezing is a breeze! Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to three months. Just thaw them at room temperature before use, and they’ll be just as delicious as the day you made them.
Reheating
To refresh the crispiness, warm the pecans in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. This will bring back that freshly baked aroma and crunchy texture, perfect for when you want to enjoy them as if they were just made.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or cashews work wonderfully with this recipe. Just keep an eye on baking times, since different nuts might toast a bit faster or slower.
Is it necessary to use egg whites?
Yes, egg whites help the sugar mixture stick evenly to the nuts. If you prefer an egg-free option, you can try using a light coating of honey or maple syrup, but the texture will be different.
How long do candied pecans stay fresh?
Stored properly in airtight containers, your Easy Candied Pecans Recipe will stay fresh for up to two weeks at room temperature, and longer if frozen.
Can I make this recipe without cinnamon?
Definitely. While cinnamon adds a cozy warmth, you can substitute with other spices like nutmeg, pumpkin pie spice, or even a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick.
What’s the best way to prevent the pecans from sticking together?
Make sure to stir the pecans regularly during baking to separate them. After baking, spread them out to cool completely before storing to avoid clumping.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about turning simple pecans into a sweet, crunchy delight that’s bursting with warm spices and caramelized sugar. This Easy Candied Pecans Recipe is the kind of snack you won’t want to keep to yourself. Whether you’re sharing with friends, spicing up your meals, or gifting a little homemade joy, it’s an absolute winner every time. So go ahead, dive in, and let these candied pecans bring a little extra sweetness to your day!
Print
Easy Candied Pecans Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 to 8.8 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Candied Pecans recipe creates perfectly sweet, crunchy nuts coated in a flavorful cinnamon sugar glaze. Made with simple ingredients like sugars, cinnamon, and egg whites, these pecans are baked until crisp. They are perfect for snacking, topping salads, or adding a delicious crunch to desserts. The recipe yields a large batch and can be customized with spices like cloves or vanilla for added depth.
Ingredients
Basic Candied Pecans
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 16 ounces unsalted pecan halves (about 4 cups)
- 1 egg white
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon water
Alternative Batch (Larger Quantity)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 3 egg whites
- 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
- 6 cups pecan halves
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pecans: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg white, vanilla extract, and water until frothy. Add the pecan halves to the bowl and stir well to coat all the nuts evenly with the egg mixture.
- Mix Sugars and Spices: In a separate bowl, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and cloves if using. Stir the dry ingredients until evenly mixed.
- Coat Pecans with Sugar Mixture: Sprinkle the sugar and spice mixture over the pecans and stir thoroughly until all the pecans are evenly coated. Make sure to break up any clumps of sugar to ensure a uniform coating.
- Bake the Pecans: Spread the coated pecans in a single layer on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to promote even cooking and prevent burning. The pecans will develop a crisp, caramelized coating.
- Cool and Store: Remove the pecans from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet. As they cool, the coating will harden to a crunchy texture. Once cooled, break apart any clusters and store the candied pecans in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
Notes
- You can adjust the amount of cinnamon or cloves to your taste for a milder or spicier flavor.
- Make sure to stir the pecans frequently during baking to avoid burning and ensure even coating.
- Use parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- These pecans are great in salads, as a snack, or crushed over desserts like ice cream or yogurt.
- For a vegan version, substitute the egg whites with aquafaba (chickpea water) whipped to a froth.
