When the aroma of warm, spiced nuts wafts through the air, it doesn’t just fill your kitchen; it fills your heart with nostalgia. Candied pecans, with their sweet crunch and delightful caramelized goodness, transport you to cozy winter evenings and festive gatherings where laughter mingles with the scent of holiday treats. perfect pairing with candied pecans. For more inspiration, check out this Sweet Conversation Heart Cookies recipe.
Picture this: a bustling kitchen filled with family, everyone vying for the last pecan from the bowl. The moment is electric, laughter erupts as someone dramatically pretends to hide the last piece, and suddenly, these sweet little nuts become not merely a snack but a cherished memory shared over stories and smiles. low carb meal options So let’s dive into this deliciously simple recipe that promises to elevate any occasion!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These candied pecans are incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for any gathering
- Their sweet flavor pairs beautifully with both desserts and savory dishes
- The golden-brown color adds irresistible visual appeal to your table
- You can enjoy them as a snack or use them as toppings on salads or desserts!
I remember the first time I made candied pecans for my friends’ game night; they disappeared in minutes! creamy spaghetti casserole.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: savory potato and sausage dish. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Cheesy Potato Soup recipe.
Pecans: Opt for fresh pecans; they have a richer flavor and are crunchier than older ones.
Granulated Sugar: Regular granulated sugar works perfectly for that sweet coating.
Brown Sugar: This adds a lovely depth of flavor and slight moisture to your candied pecans.
Cinnamon: Use ground cinnamon for warmth; it complements the sweetness beautifully.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of pure vanilla extract enhances all the flavors in this recipe.
Salt: Just a pinch balances out the sweetness and elevates all other flavors.
Water: A small amount helps dissolve the sugars before cooking.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Pecan Mixture: Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. In a large mixing bowl, combine pecans with granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and vanilla extract until evenly coated.
Create Your Sticky Sweet Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine water with your nut mixture. Stir until sugar dissolves completely, creating a sticky syrup that makes everything so wonderfully sweet.
Candy Those Pecans!: Once your syrup begins to bubble slightly and coat the back of a spoon (about 3-4 minutes), add in those glorious pecans. Stir constantly for about 5-7 minutes until they start glistening.
Spread Out to Cool: Remove from heat and quickly transfer your candied pecans onto parchment paper lined baking sheet. Spread them out in a single layer to cool completely. They’ll crisp up beautifully!
Enjoy or Store Them Up!: Once cooled down (and if you can resist), dig in immediately or store in an airtight container for up to two weeks—if they last that long!
These delightful candied nuts are simple enough for weeknight snacking yet fancy enough for holiday parties or gift-giving to friends who might need a little sweetness in their lives!
You Must Know
- Candied pecans take snacking to a whole new level
- Their sweet, crunchy texture pairs beautifully with salads or desserts, making them versatile
- Plus, the aroma of sugar caramelizing is practically irresistible; you’ll want to make a double batch!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
First, toast the pecans for a few minutes to enhance their flavor before coating them in sugar and spices. This way, you’ll achieve the perfect balance of crunch and sweetness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the pecans for walnuts or almonds if you’re feeling adventurous. Adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or cayenne can elevate your candied pecans into something truly special.
Storing & Reheating
Store your candied pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. They don’t require reheating; just enjoy them as they are!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For best results, use fresh pecans as they have more flavor
- Monitor the sugar closely while cooking to prevent burning
- Adjust spice levels based on your personal taste preferences for a unique twist
Sharing my first candied pecan experience always brings a smile. My friend brought them to a potluck and they disappeared faster than my willpower on a dessert table!
FAQ
How long do candied pecans last?
Candied pecans can last up to two weeks if stored properly in an airtight container.
Can I use other nuts for this recipe?
Yes, walnuts or almonds are great alternatives if you prefer different flavors.
Are candied pecans gluten-free?
Absolutely! Candied pecans are naturally gluten-free and perfect for various diets.
Candied Pecans
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the sweet nostalgia of homemade candied pecans. These delightful treats are a perfect blend of crunchy texture and caramelized sweetness, making them an ideal snack for cozy gatherings or festive celebrations. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a batch that will disappear in minutes. Whether enjoyed on their own or as a topping for salads and desserts, these candied pecans are sure to elevate any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 cups pecans
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp water
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine pecans, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and vanilla extract until well coated.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine water and the nut mixture. Stir until the sugars dissolve completely to form a syrup.
- Once bubbling (about 3-4 minutes), add the pecan mixture and stir constantly for about 5-7 minutes until they glisten.
- Spread the pecans on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer and allow to cool completely before serving or storing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 oz (28g)
- Calories: 155
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Toast the pecans for added flavor before coating them with sugar. Feel free to substitute with walnuts or almonds or add spices like cayenne for an extra kick. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.