If you have a sweet tooth and love a bit of crunch, this Stovetop Maple Candied Pecans (or Mixed Nuts) Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s a spectacularly simple way to elevate everyday nuts into a sticky, cinnamon-kissed snack that’s bursting with warmth and sweetness. The magic lies in the luscious maple syrup glaze that caramelizes right on your stovetop, coating every inch of those crunchy pecans or your favorite nut mix. Whether you’re snacking straight from the jar, tossing them into salads, or gifting them during the holidays, these candied nuts never fail to impress with their irresistible texture and mouthwatering flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Stovetop Maple Candied Pecans (or Mixed Nuts) Recipe is in its simplicity. You only need a handful of wholesome ingredients, each playing a vital role—from the natural sweetness of pure maple syrup to the warming spice of cinnamon and the subtle depth of vanilla. Together, they create a harmonious blend that coats the nuts perfectly, offering that signature crunch and sticky finish.
- 4 cups pecan halves (or mixed raw nuts): Pecans add a buttery richness, but feel free to mix walnuts, almonds, or cashews for varied textures.
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup: Serves as the natural sweetener and sticky glaze that caramelizes beautifully.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds a lovely fragrant note that deepens the overall flavor profile.
- 1 1/2 tablespoons cinnamon: Brings warmth and a cozy spice that perfectly complements the maple syrup.
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.
How to Make Stovetop Maple Candied Pecans (or Mixed Nuts) Recipe
Step 1: Warm the Maple Syrup Mixture
Start by combining the pure maple syrup, vanilla extract, and sea salt in a skillet over medium heat. Let it warm gently for about one minute. This warming process helps the syrup loosen up and allows the vanilla and salt to infuse their flavors, setting a perfect base to coat the nuts.
Step 2: Coat the Nuts in Syrup
Once your syrup mixture is warm and fragrant, toss in the pecans or mixed nuts. Stir them constantly to ensure every nut gets that luscious, sticky coating. This constant movement prevents burning and guarantees even coverage so each bite is deliciously sweet and crunchy.
Step 3: Add the Cinnamon
Sprinkle the cinnamon over the coated nuts and continue stirring. Cinnamon is the star spice here, adding a cozy, aromatic flavor that transforms this snack from simple sweetness to something truly special and inviting.
Step 4: Cook Until Glazed and Sticky
Keep stirring the nuts as the maple syrup starts to boil. Watch closely as the liquid thickens and gets absorbed into the nuts—this process usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. You’ll know you’re done when there’s no more syrupy liquid left, and the nuts are beautifully glossy and sticky.
Step 5: Cool and Set
Remove the skillet from the heat and pour the candied nuts evenly onto parchment paper. For a little extra sparkle and a sugar-coated effect, sprinkle a bit of cinnamon sugar over the top before the mixture cools. Once completely cooled, break the nuts apart and you’ll have a perfect snack that’s ready to enjoy.
Step 6: Store for Freshness
Transfer your marvelous creation to an airtight container. Properly stored, these candied nuts stay fresh and crunchy for about two weeks—perfect for snacking or gifting!
How to Serve Stovetop Maple Candied Pecans (or Mixed Nuts) Recipe
Garnishes
These candied nuts make an absolutely stunning garnish for all sorts of dishes. Scatter them on top of a fresh green salad to add unexpected sweetness and crunch, or sprinkle them over creamy yogurt, oatmeal, or even desserts like cheesecake. They bring texture, flavor, and visual appeal all in one bite.
Side Dishes
Serving these candied nuts alongside cheese boards or charcuterie platters is a game changer. Their sweet and spiced flavor contrasts beautifully with savory cheeses and cured meats, making every bite interesting and delicious.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not package your Stovetop Maple Candied Pecans (or Mixed Nuts) Recipe in pretty little jars tied with a ribbon for thoughtful homemade gifts? Or crush them lightly and use as a topping for ice cream, pancakes, or roasted veggies to add a delightful crunch that everyone will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover candied nuts should be kept in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crunchy texture and prevent moisture from making them sticky or soggy. Two weeks of delightful snacking await when stored properly.
Freezing
If you want to keep these candied nuts fresh for longer than two weeks, freezing is a great option. Simply place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, and they can last up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Reheating
To refresh their crispness, spread the nuts on a baking sheet and warm them in a low oven (about 300°F/150°C) for 5-7 minutes. This helps re-crisp the glaze without melting it, bringing your Stovetop Maple Candied Pecans (or Mixed Nuts) Recipe back to life beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use other types of nuts besides pecans?
Absolutely! This recipe works wonderfully with a mix of raw nuts like almonds, walnuts, cashews, and hazelnuts. Feel free to customize the ratio to suit your favorite flavors and textures.
Is it necessary to use pure maple syrup?
Pure maple syrup delivers that rich, complex sweetness and slightly woody flavor essential to this recipe. While you can use alternatives like honey or agave, the flavor will differ. For the classic taste, pure maple syrup is highly recommended.
How long does it take for the maple syrup to absorb into the nuts?
The syrup typically takes about 5 to 7 minutes to fully reduce and coat the nuts perfectly. Stir constantly during this time to ensure even glazing and prevent any burning.
Can I make this recipe without cinnamon?
Cinnamon truly elevates the flavor with its warm spice, but if you’re not a fan, you can reduce or omit it. You might consider substituting with other spices like nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice for a different but delicious twist.
What’s the best way to prevent the nuts from sticking together after cooling?
Once cooled, break the nuts apart gently. Storing them in an airtight container with a bit of space to breathe or stirring them occasionally can help keep them from clumping together.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Stovetop Maple Candied Pecans (or Mixed Nuts) Recipe enough. It’s one of those easy, delightful treats that you’ll find yourself making again and again. From the cozy aroma that fills your kitchen while cooking to the addictive sweet-and-spicy crunch, these nuts bring joy to snacking in the simplest way. Give it a try—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them!
PrintStovetop Maple Candied Pecans (or Mixed Nuts) Recipe
These Stovetop Maple Candied Pecans are a deliciously sweet and crunchy treat made with pure maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, and a touch of sea salt. Perfect as a snack, salad topper, or holiday gift, these candied nuts are cooked right on the stove in under 20 minutes for a quick and flavorful indulgence.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 4 cups pecan halves (or any mixture of raw nuts)
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
- Warm the syrup mixture: In a skillet over medium heat, stir together the pure maple syrup, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Allow the mixture to warm up for about 1 minute until it is fragrant and slightly fluid.
- Coat the nuts: Add the pecan halves (or your choice of raw nuts) to the skillet. Stir constantly to evenly coat the nuts with the syrup mixture.
- Add cinnamon: Sprinkle the cinnamon over the coated nuts and continue stirring to ensure the nuts are thoroughly coated with the cinnamon and syrup blend.
- Cook until syrup absorbs: Keep stirring the nuts as the maple syrup begins to boil. Continue cooking for about 5 to 7 minutes, until the syrup has mostly absorbed and there is no visible liquid left in the skillet, resulting in a sticky but dry coating on the nuts.
- Cool the nuts: Remove the skillet from heat. Pour the coated nuts evenly over a sheet of parchment paper to cool. Optionally, sprinkle additional cinnamon sugar mixture over the nuts to create a sugar-coated appearance. Once cooled, break the nuts apart into clusters or individual pieces.
- Store: Place the cooled maple candied nuts in an airtight container. Store at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
- Use any raw nuts like walnuts, almonds, or pecans as desired.
- Stir constantly to prevent burning and ensure even coating.
- Allow nuts to cool fully before breaking apart for best texture.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and crunch.
