Candied Pecans are a sweet, crunchy treat coated in a glossy blend of sugar and warm spices, making them irresistible for snacking, gifting, or garnishing desserts and salads. Their rich, buttery flavor paired with a caramelized crunch creates a comforting bite that feels both indulgent and nostalgic.
Candied Pecans:
Whether enjoyed on their own, sprinkled over salads, or packaged as a homemade edible gift, candied pecans are wonderfully versatile. Easy to prepare with pantry staples, they fill your kitchen with a cozy aroma and deliver gourmet results with minimal effort.
History:
Nuts coated in honey or sugar date back centuries, when preservation and flavour enhancement went hand in hand. In American cooking, candied pecans gained popularity in the South, where pecans are abundant and frequently used in both sweet and savory dishes. Over time, spiced and sugar-roasted pecans became a holiday favorite, commonly served at fairs, celebrations, and festive gatherings.
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Candied Pecans
Ingredients
- 2 cups pecan halves
- ½ cup granulated sugar or brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 egg white
- 1 tablespoon water
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 165°C (325°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk egg white with water until frothy.
- Add pecans and toss until evenly coated.
- In a separate bowl, mix sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
- Sprinkle the sugar mixture over the pecans and toss well.
- Spread pecans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Cool completely to allow the coating to harden before serving.
Notes
- Cooling fully is essential for maximum crunch.
- Use parchment to prevent sticking.
- Adjust sugar quantity to taste.
- Egg white creates a light, crisp coating.
- Store in an airtight container for freshness.
Tips for Candied Pecans:
- Add nutmeg or cloves for extra warmth.
- Use brown sugar for deeper caramel flavour.
- Stir halfway to ensure even coating.
- Double the batch easily for gifting.
- Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne for a sweet-heat version.
FAQs for Candied Pecans:
Q1: Can I make candied without egg white?
Yes, you can use melted butter instead, though the coating will be richer and less crisp.
Q2: How long do candied last?
Stored in an airtight container, they last up to 2 weeks at room temperature.
Q3: Can I use other nuts?
Absolutely—walnuts, almonds, or cashews work well.
Q4: Are candied gluten-free?
Yes, they are naturally gluten-free.
Q5: Can I make them on the stovetop?
Yes, but oven-baking gives more even caramelization.
Conclusion:
Candied Pecans are a timeless treat that combines simplicity with irresistible flavor. Crunchy, sweet, and lightly spiced, they’re perfect for snacking, entertaining, or gifting. Once you make them at home, they’re sure to become a staple recipe you return to again and again.