The Best Homemade Candied Pecans Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
These candied pecans are the perfect mix of sweet and crunchy, making them a snack you’ll crave again and again.
- Easy to make—just a few simple ingredients and 15 minutes are all you need.
- Versatile—toss them on salads, desserts, or enjoy them straight from the bowl.
- Crowd-pleaser—whether for parties or gifts, everyone will ask for the recipe.
Recipe
Candied pecans are a delightful treat that combines the rich, buttery flavor of pecans with a sweet, crunchy coating. Perfect for snacking, topping salads, or adding to desserts, these homemade candied pecans are easy to make and incredibly versatile. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a sweet and savory snack that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups pecan halves
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, water, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Add the pecans to the saucepan and stir to coat them evenly in the sugar mixture.
- Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the liquid reduces and the pecans become glossy, about 5-7 minutes.
- Spread the pecans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, separating them with a fork to prevent clumping.
- Allow the pecans to cool completely at room temperature until the coating hardens.
Notes:
- Store candied pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the cinnamon.
Equipment:
- Medium saucepan
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Fork
Time:
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cuisine: American
Serving: Makes 2 cups
Nutrition
Candied pecans are a delicious treat, but it’s important to be mindful of their nutritional content. Below is the nutrition information per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Total Fat | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 60 mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 12 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 10 g |
| Protein | 3 g |
What To Serve With It
I love adding these candied pecans to salads for a sweet crunch that pairs perfectly with leafy greens, goat cheese, and a light dressing. They’re also fantastic as a dessert topping, especially when sprinkled over ice cream or baked into brownies for extra richness. You’ll find they bring a delicious twist to both savory and sweet dishes.
Salad Pairings
Because candied pecans add a sweet crunch, they’re perfect for balancing out fresh, crisp greens in a salad. I love tossing them with spinach or arugula, along with fruit blends like sliced apples, pears, or dried cranberries. The combo’s unbeatable, trust me. For dressing choices, I keep it light—a drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette or honey mustard complements the pecans without overpowering the dish. Sometimes, I’ll add goat cheese or feta for a creamy contrast. It’s quick, versatile, and always a hit. Try it next time you’re craving something fresh but crave-worthy; you won’t regret it.
Dessert Companions
Though they shine in salads, candied pecans also make a fantastic addition to desserts, adding a sweet, nutty crunch that elevates just about any treat. I love sprinkling them over vanilla ice cream with a warm chocolate drizzle—it’s like instant gourmet. They’re also perfect on brownies, especially with a caramel coating for extra gooey goodness. Try folding them into cookie dough or topping cheesecake for a crunchy surprise. My favorite? Mixing them into homemade fudge. Trust me, once you start adding candied pecans to desserts, you’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed sweets without them!
