Candied Pecans Recipe

These sweet and crunchy Candied Pecans are an irresistible holiday treat! Coated in a delightful blend of sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla, they make a fantastic snack or a thoughtful homemade gift. With just a handful of ingredients and a low, slow bake, this recipe is easy to follow and perfect for holiday gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: With pantry staples and fresh pecans, this recipe is easy to whip up anytime.
• Perfect Holiday Treat: Sweet, spiced, and crunchy, these pecans are a hit at parties or as gifts.
• Versatile: Use them as a topping for salads, desserts, or simply enjoy as a snack.

Ingredients

• 1 egg white
• 2 teaspoons water
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 pound pecan halves
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly spray it with nonstick spray.

Step 2: Mix the Sugar Coating

1. In a large ziplock bag, combine the sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Whisk Egg Mixture

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg white, water, and vanilla extract until the mixture becomes frothy.

Step 4: Coat the Pecans

1. Add the pecan halves to the egg mixture, stirring to ensure all pecans are evenly coated.

Step 5: Toss with Sugar Mixture

1. Transfer the coated pecans into the ziplock bag with the sugar mixture.
2. Seal the bag and shake well until all the pecans are evenly covered with the sugar and cinnamon coating.

Step 6: Bake the Pecans

1. Spread the coated pecans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, stirring the pecans every 20 minutes to ensure even cooking.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

1. Once done, remove the pecans from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet.
2. Enjoy these delicious candied pecans as a holiday snack, or package them up for gifts!

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Large ziplock bag
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or nonstick spray

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions: Candied pecans make a wonderful addition to charcuterie boards, holiday snack trays, or even salads for a festive touch. They’re also delicious on top of desserts like ice cream, yogurt, or pies.
Storage: Store cooled pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Freezing: These pecans can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for a few hours before serving.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy-Sweet Pecans: Add ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper to the sugar mixture for a hint of heat.
• Maple Glaze: Substitute half of the sugar with maple syrup for a rich, caramelized flavor.
• Nut Mix: Use a combination of pecans, almonds, and walnuts for a mixed candied nut medley.

Helpful Notes

• Check Every 20 Minutes: Stirring every 20 minutes helps prevent burning and ensures the pecans are evenly coated and crisp.
• Frothy Egg White: Be sure to whisk the egg white until frothy; this helps the sugar mixture stick to the pecans.
• Cooling Step: Let the pecans cool fully to achieve maximum crunch and to help the coating set.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

Martha Stewart’s Candy Tip: Always use fresh spices for the best flavor, especially in simple recipes like candied nuts.
Ina Garten’s Secret for Nuts: Roast nuts at a low temperature to develop their natural oils and flavors without burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, almonds, walnuts, or cashews work well. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the size of the nuts.

Do I have to use egg whites?
Egg whites help the sugar mixture adhere, but you can use aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas) as a vegan alternative.

Can I make these pecans ahead of time?
Absolutely! They keep well for up to two weeks in an airtight container, making them perfect for holiday prep.

What if I don’t have a ziplock bag?
You can mix the sugar coating in a bowl and toss the pecans with a spoon or spatula to coat them evenly.

Why bake at a low temperature?
A low temperature allows the sugar to caramelize slowly, creating a crispy, perfectly coated texture without burning.

These Candied Pecans are an easy yet impressive treat that’s sure to be a hit with friends and family. Whether enjoyed as a snack, topping, or gift, these sweet, spiced nuts are a holiday favorite!

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