Name: Candied Pecans Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound pecan halves, unsalted (16 ounces or approximately 4 cups); 1 egg white; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 teaspoons water; 2/3 cup granulated sugar; 1/3 cup brown sugar; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon salt

If you’re searching for the perfect blend of sweet, cinnamon-spiced crunch, look no further than these Candied Pecans. They’re ridiculously easy to whip up, call for just a handful of pantry staples, and instantly transform anything from salads to holiday dessert spreads with their addictive flavor. Whether you’re gifting them, sprinkling them over oatmeal, or serving them straight as a snack, these candied pecans promise to win over everyone at the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the most delightful things about Candied Pecans is how effortlessly their magic comes together—you’ll find no complicated or mysterious ingredients here. Every single one serves a special role, from building crispy caramelization to infusing warm spice. Here’s your must-have lineup:

Pecan halves: Choose fresh, unsalted pecan halves for the ultimate nutty crunch and a perfect vehicle for all that sweet coating.
Egg white: Whisked until foamy, this acts as the sticky glue that helps all the spices and sugar cling to the nuts for maximum crunch.
Vanilla extract: Just a splash deepens the flavor with comforting bakery warmth that makes the final result irresistible.
Water: A tiny bit goes into the egg white to help get things light and fluffy for a reliable coating.
Granulated sugar: For that classic sweet, shattering exterior—we need this for the essential crispiness.
Brown sugar: Adds notes of caramel and richness that take the candied glaze up a notch.
Ground cinnamon: The real star of the spice blend, giving your candied pecans a cozy aroma and crave-able flavor.
Salt: Just half a teaspoon is all it takes to sharpen flavors and balance the sweetness.

How to Make Candied Pecans

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 300F so everything bakes evenly. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper (or a silicone baking mat if you have one)—this little step ensures your candied pecans won’t stick, and clean-up will be a breeze later on.

Step 2: Whisk the Egg White Mixture

In a big mixing bowl, combine your egg white, vanilla extract, and water. Whisk away for about two minutes, or until the mixture becomes noticeably foamy. This foam is so important; it’s what helps the cinnamon-sugar goodness cling to every inch of your pecans, forming that crave-worthy crust.

Step 3: Coat the Pecans

Drop your pecan halves into the egg white mixture and stir, making sure each nut gets slicked with that frothy coating. You want every single piece covered, so take your time with the tossing!

Step 4: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together your granulated sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt. The aroma at this stage will be heavenly—and it sets the stage for what’s coming next.

Step 5: Toss Pecans in Cinnamon Sugar

Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar blend over your coated pecans and gently toss until everything is as evenly covered as possible. Don’t skimp here; this mix is what gives Candied Pecans their signature crunch and flavor!

Step 6: Bake and Stir

Arrange your sugar-coated pecans in a tidy single layer on your baking sheet. Slide them into the oven for 35 to 40 minutes, making sure to stir gently after 15 minutes and then every 10 minutes after that. This prevents clumps and helps every nut toast up with a beautifully even candy shell.

Step 7: Cool Completely

When the coating has crisped up and the kitchen smells out-of-this-world, remove the pan and let your candied pecans cool right on the tray. Patience is key—the candy shell hardens as it cools, giving you those unmistakable sweet, crunchy bites.

How to Serve Candied Pecans

Garnishes

Candied Pecans add irresistible sparkle and crunch to almost anything you top them with. Sprinkle them over pancakes, French toast, banana bread, or a creamy bowl of yogurt for a sweet-and-nutty finish. Their classic sheen also makes every treat look instantly festive.

Side Dishes

If you’re planning to serve these alongside a meal, try scattering them over roasted vegetables, stuffing, or a wholesome grain salad. They’re a natural fit in leafy green salads too—the sweet crunch is the perfect contrast for tangy vinaigrettes and creamy cheeses.

Creative Ways to Present

Pour Candied Pecans into a mason jar with a bright ribbon for an unforgettable edible gift, or set out bowls at holiday get-togethers as an irresistible finger food. Try using them as a topping on sundaes or ice cream bars, or crush and stir them into homemade granola for a sophisticated twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store cooled Candied Pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Make sure the container is well-sealed to keep them crisp and to prevent any moisture from sneaking in—they’ll stay just as irresistible as when you made them!

Freezing

Need to prepare ahead? No problem! Place completely cooled candied pecans in a freezer-safe bag or sealed container and store them in the freezer for up to four months. Let them thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy; they’ll remain perfectly crunchy.

Reheating

If your candied pecans have lost a bit of their crunch, a quick fix is to spread them on a baking sheet and pop them in a 275F oven for about 5-8 minutes. Let them cool again before snacking—they’ll be as crispy and fresh as day one.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts for this recipe?

Absolutely! While pecans are a classic, you can also use walnuts, almonds, or cashews. Just note that baking times may vary slightly, so keep an eye out and stir as needed to avoid burning.

Why didn’t my candied pecans get crunchy?

This usually happens if there’s too much liquid or if the nuts didn’t bake long enough for the sugar to harden. Make sure to bake until the coating looks set and always allow the nuts to cool completely for that crisp finish.

Are these candied pecans gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe uses only naturally gluten-free ingredients. Just double-check your labels (especially on vanilla extract) to be sure if you’re serving anyone with a sensitivity.

How long do homemade candied pecans last?

When stored correctly in a sealed container at room temperature, they stay fresh and crunchy for up to two weeks. For even longer storage, pop them in the freezer.

What’s the best way to package Candied Pecans for gifts?

Let the pecans cool completely, then spoon them into decorative jars, small treat bags, or tins. Add a festive ribbon or a handwritten label—these make wonderful homemade gifts for teachers, friends, neighbors, or holiday hosts.

Final Thoughts

Truly, making a batch of Candied Pecans is one of those simple kitchen joys that pays off tenfold. They’re delicious, shareable, and stunningly versatile—so go ahead and give this recipe a try. Once you taste that crispy, cinnamon-kissed crunch, you’ll be hooked!

Candied Pecans Recipe

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5 from 13 reviews

Sweet and crunchy Candied Pecans are a simple and delightful treat perfect for snacking or adding a tasty crunch to various dishes. This easy-to-follow recipe yields perfectly coated pecans with a hint of cinnamon, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.

Author: Paula
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 16 servings
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Pecans:

1 pound pecan halves, unsalted (16 ounces or approximately 4 cups)

Egg White Mixture:

1 egg white
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 teaspoons water

Cinnamon Sugar Mixture:

2/3 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup brown sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 300F. Line a baking sheet with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper.
Prepare Pecans: Whisk egg white, vanilla, and water until foamy. Coat pecans in the mixture.
Coat with Cinnamon Sugar: Combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Toss pecans in this mixture.
Bake: Spread pecans on the baking sheet. Bake for 35-40 minutes, stirring periodically.
Cool and Store: Let pecans cool on the sheet before transferring to an airtight container.