This Easy Candied Pecans Recipe will become one of your favorites in no time! Whether you’re whipping them up for a snack or looking to add something special to your salads and desserts, these pecans are both simple and delicious. The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward approach and the balance of flavors. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a delightful treat that’s perfect for sharing or savoring on your own.
Imagine the aroma of sweet, toasty pecans filling your kitchen. It’s a warm invitation, drawing everyone in for a taste. Plus, these easy candied pecans make wonderful gifts during the holidays or any time of year. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s get started on this fun culinary adventure!
Why This Recipe Works
This Easy Candied Pecans Recipe thrives on simplicity and balance, weaving together just the right amount of sweetness with a hint of spice. The combination of granulated and brown sugars ensures a rich caramelization, while the egg white acts as a binder, giving the pecans a crunchy exterior.
The specific ratios in this recipe truly enhance the flavors. Brown sugar adds depth with its molasses notes, while the granulated sugar contributes to that perfect sweetness. Further, the warm touch of cinnamon provides comforting familiarity, and the cayenne pepper introduces a subtle kick, elevating this recipe to something special. This magic blend creates a delightful snack that you’ll find yourself coming back to time and time again.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Candied Pecans Recipe
These candied pecans are not only delicious but incredibly versatile. Perfect as a quick snack, they also make delightful additions to salads, desserts, or as holiday gifts. Their easy preparation means you can whip them up in no time, satisfying your sweet tooth or elevating your culinary creations effortlessly.
Picture this: a fresh winter salad topped with sprinkled candied pecans, adding that perfect crunch and sweetness. Or, think about a scoop of vanilla ice cream, topped with these pecans, bringing a satisfying end to your meal. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe an essential part of your kitchen repertoire.
Ingredients
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 large egg white
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 pound pecan halves
Preparing Your Candied Pecans
Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This ensures an even baking temperature for that perfect crunch.
Prepare Baking Sheet
Line a large rimmed baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure an easy cleanup.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, and kosher salt. Whisk until evenly blended.
Whisk Egg White and Vanilla
In a large bowl, vigorously whisk the egg white and vanilla extract together until you achieve a light and frothy mixture. This step is key as it helps your pecans stick to the sugar coating.
Coat the Pecans
Add the pecan halves to the whisked egg white mixture, folding gently until each pecan is completely coated. See how the egg white makes everything stick together? It’s magical!
Combine Sugars and Pecans
Pour your sugar mixture over the coated pecans, folding gently to ensure all the dry mixture adheres well. Make sure you cover every pecan; you want that sugary goodness to surround them all.
Spread on Baking Sheet
Spread the coated pecans in an even layer on the prepared baking pan, ensuring there’s adequate space between the nuts for even baking. Crowded pecans could lead to uneven cooking, so give them some room.
Bake to Perfection
Bake the pecans for about 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes, until they are fragrant and uniformly browned. The smell wafting from the oven will be absolutely irresistible, so get ready for some eager taste testers!
Cool and Store
Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet. Store your candied pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or in the freezer for up to 2 months. But honestly, they might not last that long!
Serving Suggestions
These Easy Candied Pecans can be enjoyed as a snack on their own or sprinkled over your favorite salads, like a delightful Strawberry Salad. They also make a wonderful topping for desserts, from ice cream to cheesecakes. Imagine them over your morning oatmeal or yogurt, adding that crunch and sweetness that transforms an ordinary breakfast into something fun.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the pecans are evenly coated for consistent flavor and texture.
- Keep an eye on them while baking to prevent burning, as oven temperatures can vary.
- Allow adequate cooling time to achieve maximum crunchiness. If you can resist diving in too soon, you’ll be rewarded with that perfect snap!
Variations
- Swap in different nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, for a unique twist. Each nut brings its own flavor profile and texture.
- Adjust the level of spice by increasing or omitting the cayenne pepper. If you prefer it a little milder, leave the cayenne out altogether.
- Experiment with different extracts, like almond or maple, for varied flavors. This allows you to customize your pecans to suit any occasion!
FAQs
Can I use other nuts for this recipe?
Yes, walnuts or almonds work great as substitutes for pecans. Each nut will create a slightly different flavor profile but will still taste divine.
How do I store the candied pecans?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks or in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just make sure they’re fully cooled before storing.
Can I make these candied pecans without the egg white?
While the egg white helps to create the crunchy texture, you can omit it for a different texture. Just note that they may not adhere as well without it.
What can I do if the pecans clump together?
If clumping occurs, gently break them apart while they cool to ensure even distribution. A little gentle nudging will do the trick!
How can I incorporate these pecans into my meals?
These candied pecans pair well with salads, baked goods, or simply as a snack. They truly add a special touch to any dish!
These Easy Candied Pecans are sure to become a regular part of your kitchen repertoire. Not only do they deliver on taste and texture, but they also bring a sense of warmth and celebration, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re indulging casually or gifting a jar to a friend, this recipe promises to satisfy and delight. Enjoy the sweet, crunchy goodness!
Print
Candied Pecans
These candied pecans are a delicious snack or a delightful addition to salads and desserts, combining sweetness and spice for incredible flavor.
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Around 4 cups 1x
Ingredients
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 large egg white
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 pound pecan halves
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, and salt in a bowl.
- Whisk egg white and vanilla in a large bowl until frothy.
- Add pecans to the egg mixture, coating them well.
- Pour sugar mixture over pecans and mix until coated.
- Spread coated pecans in an even layer on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes, until browned.
- Cool completely before storing.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
Ensure pecans are evenly coated for consistent flavor.
Monitor baking time to avoid burning.
Cool completely for maximum crunchiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 11
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 1
- Unsaturated Fat: 10
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 16
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 3
- Cholesterol: 0
