Candied Pecans Recipe

Make your own sweet and crunchy candied pecans with this simple and quick recipe. These homemade pecans are coated in a sugar and spice mixture and baked to perfection for a crispy, golden treat. This easy recipe uses common ingredients like butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and pecans to create a delicious snack or topping. Perfect for holiday gifts, salads, or simply as a snack, these candied pecans can be stored for up to two weeks in an airtight container. With minimal prep and a short baking time, these pecans are an irresistible addition to any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 3 Tablespoons (42g) unsalted butter
• 3/4 cup (149g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (53g) light brown sugar, packed
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg white
• 1 Tablespoon (14ml) bourbon or water
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 pound pecan halves

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the butter on a large baking sheet and place it in the oven to melt. Once the butter has melted, remove the baking sheet from the oven and reduce the oven temperature to 250°F (120°C).
2. Mix Sugars and Spices: In a small bowl, combine granulated sugar, light brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt. Stir to blend.
3. Prepare Egg White Mixture: In a separate large bowl, whisk the egg white with bourbon (or water) and vanilla extract until the mixture is frothy.
4. Coat the Pecans: Toss the pecans into the egg white mixture and stir to coat them evenly. Then, add the sugar and spice mixture, stirring until the pecans are fully coated.
5. Bake the Pecans: Spread the coated pecans evenly on the buttered baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even coating, for about 1 hour.
6. Cool and Store: Remove the pecans from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for at least 15 minutes before serving. Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect Sweet and Spicy Flavor: The combination of cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg creates a flavorful coating, while the buttery pecans bring a satisfying crunch.
• Simple and Quick: With only a few ingredients and minimal preparation, this recipe is easy to follow and ready in about an hour.
• Versatile Snack: These candied pecans are great for snacking on their own, adding to salads, or using as a topping for desserts like ice cream or pies.

Tips

• Watch the Pecans: Stirring every 15 minutes is key to ensuring they bake evenly and don’t burn.
• Check for Crispness: If they seem soft when they come out of the oven, they will firm up as they cool.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spices and a high-quality vanilla extract can make a big difference in the flavor of your pecans.

Variations and Substitutions

• Sugar Swap: For a different sweetness, try substituting the granulated sugar with coconut sugar or maple sugar.
• Flavor Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or some cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist.
• Nut Alternatives: This recipe can be used with other nuts like almonds, walnuts, or cashews.

FAQs

Can I use a different nut for this recipe? Yes! Almonds, walnuts, or even cashews can be used instead of pecans. Keep in mind that different nuts may require slightly different baking times.

Can I make these candied pecans ahead of time? Yes, candied pecans store well in an airtight container for up to two weeks, making them great for meal prep or gifting.

Do I need bourbon? No, bourbon adds extra flavor but can be replaced with water for a non-alcoholic version.

Serving and Suggestions

• Serve as a Snack: Perfect for snacking on its own or serving at parties.
• Top Desserts: Add to your favorite pies, cakes, or even yogurt and ice cream for added texture and flavor.
• Gift Idea: Pack them in a jar and give as a homemade gift during the holidays or special occasions.