Simple Homemade Candied Pecans Recipe

If you’re looking for a snack that combines irresistible crunch with just the right touch of sweetness, the Simple Homemade Candied Pecans Recipe is exactly what you need. These pecans are glossy, caramelized, and perfectly spiced, making them ideal for adding a delightful texture to salads, topping desserts, or simply munching on by the handful. Whether you’re planning a cozy night in or preparing a thoughtful homemade gift, this recipe brings a warm, buttery flavor that feels both timeless and comforting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients ready for this Simple Homemade Candied Pecans Recipe is wonderfully straightforward. Each component plays an essential role in building flavor, creating that perfect crisp coating, or balancing sweetness with a hint of spice.

• 2 cups Pecans: Fresh pecans provide a rich, buttery flavor and natural crunch.
• 1 cup Granulated Sugar: This is the base for your candy coating, lending that wonderful caramel sweetness.
• 1/4 cup Water: Helps dissolve the sugar evenly for smooth, consistent coating.
• 1/4 teaspoon Salt: Enhances the overall flavor by balancing sweetness and elevating the pecans’ natural nuttiness.
• 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (optional): Adds a warm, fragrant spice that makes the pecans even more aromatic and tempting.

How to Make Simple Homemade Candied Pecans Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is perfect for gently baking the pecans after they’re coated, allowing the sugar to caramelize without burning.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleaning up a breeze. This ensures the pecans will spread out and bake evenly.

Step 3: Dissolve Sugar in Water

In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar with water, stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved. This step is crucial for a smooth, liquid syrup that will evenly coat the pecans.

Step 4: Bring Mixture to a Gentle Boil

Place the saucepan over medium heat and let the mixture come to a gentle boil. Stir occasionally to keep everything well blended and avoid crystallizing the sugar.

Step 5: Coat the Pecans

Reduce the heat to low, then toss in the pecans. Stir constantly to coat every nut with the syrup. This helps develop that signature glossy and sticky coating.

Step 6: Cook in Syrup

Keep cooking the pecans in the syrup for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently. This time lets the syrup thicken and cling tightly to each pecan, setting the stage for caramelization in the oven.

Step 7: Spread on Baking Sheet

Transfer the coated pecans to the prepared baking sheet, spreading them out in a single layer. This step is key for evenly toasted nuts without any clumping.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake the pecans for 10 to 15 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning. The oven brings out that deep caramel flavor and crunchy texture that makes this recipe so addictive.

Step 9: Cool Completely

Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the pecans cool fully. As they cool, they harden into that perfect, crispy candy coating that’s both sweet and satisfyingly crunchy.

Step 10: Store Properly

Once cool, break apart any clusters and store your candied pecans in an airtight container to keep them fresh and crunchy for days.

How to Serve Simple Homemade Candied Pecans Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle these candied pecans over green salads, roasted vegetables, or creamy desserts like ice cream and panna cotta to add a sweet crunch that elevates every bite.

Side Dishes

Pair these sweet, crunchy nuts with cheese boards or alongside roasted sweet potatoes for a lovely contrast of flavors and textures that delight the palate.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or gifts, package your Simple Homemade Candied Pecans Recipe in clear jars tied with festive ribbons, or scatter them atop cupcakes and tarts as an unexpected, mouthwatering topping.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover candied pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Keeping them sealed preserves their crunch and prevents moisture from softening the candy coating.

Freezing

If you want to keep your candied pecans fresh for longer, freezing them works well. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible, and thaw briefly before serving.

Reheating

If the pecans lose a bit of their crispness, a quick toss in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes can help refresh their snap and enhance that delicious caramel aroma.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of nut instead of pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or even cashews work wonderfully with this method, though the cooking time might vary slightly depending on the nut’s size and moisture content.

Is cinnamon necessary in this recipe?

Not at all. Cinnamon is optional and adds a warm spice, but the pecans are delicious on their own with just sugar and salt, letting their natural flavor shine through.

How do I prevent the sugar from crystallizing?

Stirring gently while heating and ensuring the sugar is fully dissolved before the mixture boils helps prevent crystallization, giving you that smooth, shiny coating you want.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

This recipe is naturally vegan since it uses no animal products – just pecans, sugar, water, salt, and optional spices. It’s a sweet treat everyone can enjoy!

What should I do if my pecans stick together after cooling?

Gently break apart any clusters with your hands or a spatula once cooled, and store them loosely to maintain that perfect crunchy texture without clumping.

Final Thoughts

This Simple Homemade Candied Pecans Recipe is an absolute game-changer when you want a quick, delicious snack or a little something special to brighten salads and desserts. It’s easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and fills your kitchen with the most inviting aroma. I can’t wait for you to try it and share the joy of these crunchy, sweet bites with those you love!

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