If you’re searching for a delightful snack or a sweet, crunchy topping that’s as versatile as it is delicious, look no further than this Easy Candied Pecans Recipe. These pecans are perfectly coated with a warm blend of cinnamon, sugar, and a hint of vanilla, creating a candy-coated treat that’s crispy on the outside and tender inside. Whether sprinkled over salads, stirred into oatmeal, or enjoyed straight from the jar, this Easy Candied Pecans Recipe is your new go-to for a sweet and satisfying bite that’s incredibly simple to make.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this Easy Candied Pecans Recipe is a breeze, and each one plays an essential role in layering flavor and texture. From the sweet sugars to the fragrant spices, every component combines to create that irresistible crunch and rich sweetness.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds a clean sweetness that forms the base of the coating.
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar: Brings a deep, molasses flavor that enriches the pecans.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: Gives warmth and a cozy spice note that’s absolutely inviting.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor complexity.
- 16 ounces unsalted pecan halves (about 4 cups): The star of the show, providing that buttery, nutty crunch.
- 1 egg white: Helps the sugar and spices stick perfectly to each pecan.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a subtle aromatic sweetness to round out the flavor.
- 1 teaspoon water: Keeps the egg white smooth for even coating.
- 1 cup granulated sugar (for double batch): For those times you want to make twice as many—sugar for coating.
- 1 cup brown sugar (for double batch): For adding that signature sweetness and soft chewiness.
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves: Introduces a hint of spice to amp up the flavor in larger batches.
- 3 egg whites (for double batch): More binding power for more pecans.
- 2 tablespoons vanilla extract (for double batch): Stronger vanilla notes for bigger servings.
- 6 cups pecan halves (for double batch): The perfect amount when you want to share with friends or savor for longer.
How to Make Easy Candied Pecans Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 250°F (120°C). This low temperature helps dry-roast the pecans gently, ensuring they get crispy without burning. While the oven warms up, whisk together the egg white, vanilla extract, and water until frothy—this mixture will be the magic glue for the sweet coating.
Step 2: Combine Sugars and Spices
In a separate bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and cloves (if using). This blend of sugars and spices is what transforms simple pecans into a sweet, warmly spiced snack with a perfect balance of flavors.
Step 3: Toss Pecans in Egg White Mixture
Add the pecan halves into the egg white mixture and gently toss until each pecan is evenly coated. This step ensures the sugar mixture will stick well during baking, creating that satisfying crunchy shell around every nut.
Step 4: Coat Pecans with Sugar Blend
Sprinkle the sugar and spice mixture over the coated pecans and stir to combine. It’s important to mix thoroughly so the pecans get a consistent layer of sweetness and spice.
Step 5: Bake and Stir
Spread the pecans in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Place them in the oven and bake for 40 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, so they cook evenly and the coating crisps up without burning.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy
Remove the pecans from the oven and allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet. As they cool, the coating hardens to a delightful crunch that makes these candied pecans utterly irresistible. Once cooled, transfer them to an airtight container or enjoy immediately!
How to Serve Easy Candied Pecans Recipe
Garnishes
Try sprinkling these Easy Candied Pecans over a leafy green salad or a creamy brie cheese appetizer to add a sweet, crunchy contrast. They’re also gorgeous atop whipped cream or yogurt parfaits, providing both texture and a flavor pop that will brighten up your dish.
Side Dishes
These candied pecans are a fantastic addition to side dishes like roasted Brussels sprouts or sweet potato casseroles. They introduce a nutty sweetness and bite that balances savory and earthy flavors perfectly, making any meal feel a little more special.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, serve your candied pecans in small decorative bowls alongside drinks or cheese boards. They also make charming edible gifts when packed in mason jars with a festive ribbon. Get creative by using them in baked goods like muffins or atop desserts like ice cream for an extra crunch and sweetness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers—and you might since they’re hard to resist—store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and crisp for up to two weeks, making them an easy snack to enjoy anytime.
Freezing
For longer storage, candied pecans can be frozen. Place them in a sealed freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll keep for up to three months without losing their texture or flavor. Just thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating
If your candied pecans lose a bit of their crunch, quickly re-crisp them by warming them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, and enjoy them as if freshly made!
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or cashews work beautifully with this recipe and give you a slightly different flavor and texture. Just adjust the baking time if necessary since some nuts roast faster than pecans.
Is the egg white safe to eat raw in this recipe?
The egg whites are baked thoroughly during the roasting process, which makes this method safe. However, if you’re concerned, you can use pasteurized egg whites for peace of mind.
Can I make this recipe without an oven?
You can try stovetop candied pecans by cooking them in a skillet over low heat, stirring often until the coating sets. The texture might differ slightly, but it’s a handy alternative if you don’t have an oven available.
How long do candied pecans last?
Stored correctly in an airtight container, candied pecans remain fresh and crunchy for up to two weeks at room temperature and up to three months in the freezer.
Can I adjust the spices in this recipe?
Definitely! The cinnamon and cloves provide warm spice notes, but you can customize the blend with nutmeg, allspice, or even chili powder for a touch of heat. It’s all about your flavor preference.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Candied Pecans Recipe is one of those delightful discoveries that quickly becomes a favorite. It’s simple, quick, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for snacking, gifting, or adding that extra touch to your favorite dishes. Give it a try—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without these sweet, spiced gems in your pantry.
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 is a delightful treat perfect for snacking, topping salads, or adding a sweet, crunchy texture to desserts. Sweetened with a blend of granulated sugar, brown sugar, and warm spices like cinnamon and cloves, these pecans are coated in a light, glossy egg white mixture and baked to perfection for a flavorful, crispy finish.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
Nuts
- 16 ounces unsalted pecan halves (about 4 cups)
- 6 cups pecan halves
Wet Ingredients
- 1 egg white
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon water
- 3 egg whites
- 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). This low temperature allows the pecans to dry out and become crunchy without burning.
- Prepare the Egg White Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the egg whites, vanilla extract, and water until foamy. This mixture will help the sugar and spices stick to the pecans.
- Coat the Pecans: Add the pecan halves to the egg white mixture and stir until all the nuts are evenly coated.
- Mix the Sugar and Spices: In a separate bowl, combine the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and ground cloves. Stir well to combine all the spices thoroughly.
- Toss Pecans with Sugar Mixture: Add the sugar and spice mix to the coated pecans and gently toss until each pecan is evenly covered with the sweet, spiced mixture.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the pecans in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- Bake the Pecans: Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to ensure even baking and prevent burning. This slow baking process caramelizes the sugars and crisps the pecans.
- Cool and Store: Remove the pecans from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet. They will harden as they cool. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
Notes
- Stirring the pecans every 10 minutes during baking ensures even caramelization and prevents burning.
- Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- These candied pecans can be used as toppings for salads, desserts, or eaten as a sweet snack.
- For a spicier variation, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sugar mixture.
- Make sure pecans are completely cooled before storing to maintain crispness.
