If you’re searching for the ultimate sweet and crunchy snack, look no further than Candied Pecans! These addictive little gems are tossed in a heavenly blend of cinnamon and vanilla, baked until perfectly crisp, and make the most irresistible companion for salads, desserts, or simple snacking. They’re not just a treat for your tastebuds—they’re visually stunning and surprisingly easy to whip up, making them the perfect homemade gift or party addition. Trust me, once you share Candied Pecans with friends and family, you’ll be asked for this recipe on repeat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of pantry staples, you can transform pecans into a sweet-spiced masterpiece. Every ingredient plays an important role in creating the delicious layers of flavor and that addictive, crackly coating. Grab these essentials and get ready for some kitchen magic:

Pecans: Opt for fresh, raw pecan halves—they’ll toast up beautifully and deliver that classic nutty crunch.
Granulated sugar: Provides the signature sweetness and turns wonderfully crisp in the oven.
Ground cinnamon: Infuses warm spice into every bite; feel free to add a touch more if you adore cinnamon!
Salt: Just a little brings all the flavors together and balances out the sweetness perfectly.
Vanilla extract: Elevates the aroma and adds a dreamy, bakery-quality flavor.
Egg white: This is what gives Candied Pecans that signature glossy coating and irresistible crunch.
Water: Helps thin the egg white so it coats the pecans evenly for maximum crunch.

How to Make Candied Pecans

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet

First things first: set your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This not only creates the perfect low and slow roasting environment, but also makes cleanup a breeze. The parchment also keeps your pecans from sticking—so you keep every last tasty morsel!

Step 2: Whip Up the Egg White Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, whisk your egg white with the tablespoon of water and a splash of vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture becomes frothy and opaque; this takes about a minute. This step is what guarantees that delicate, crispy coating and helps the sugar and spices cling to every pecan half.

Step 3: Coat the Pecans

Add your pecan halves to the frothy egg white mixture. Stir gently to ensure all the pecans are glistening—this is the stage where your simple nuts start their journey toward spectacular Candied Pecans. Take time to gently fold so you don’t break the precious pecan halves.

Step 4: Combine the Sugar and Spice

In a separate small bowl, mix the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt. This fragrant blend is going to transform your pecans into something straight from a holiday dream! Make sure everything is evenly mixed so every bite is both sweet and spice-kissed.

Step 5: Coat and Bake

Pour the sugar mixture over the egg-white-coated pecans. Toss the pecans gently so each one is thoroughly covered—the more evenly coated they are, the crunchier and more flavorful your Candied Pecans will be. Turn them out onto your prepared baking sheet, spreading them in a single layer for even baking.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes. This step is important for making sure they crisp evenly and don’t clump together. When they’re golden and aromatic, take them out of the oven and let them cool completely. They’ll crisp up even more as they cool, so patience is key!

How to Serve Candied Pecans

Garnishes

Candied Pecans are drop-dead gorgeous just as they are, but a little extra flair never hurts! Dust with a touch more cinnamon right before serving, or try a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt to intensify the flavors. For the holidays, I love tossing in a handful of dried cranberries for a pop of festive color alongside those glossy pecans.

Side Dishes

Beyond snacking, these pecans work magic as a topping for leafy green salads, especially those with apples, pears, or goat cheese. Try them on top of sweet potato casserole, your morning oatmeal, or even vanilla ice cream for a sweet and crunchy finish. Their versatility means you’ll want to keep a stash on hand year-round.

Creative Ways to Present

For gifting, fill small mason jars with Candied Pecans and tie on a ribbon for a heartfelt homemade present. If you’re hosting, pile them into bowls or scatter over a cheese board alongside sharp cheddar and dried fruits. For parties, tuck them into little parchment cones and pass them around—they’ll be the star of your snack table!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once fully cooled, stash your Candied Pecans in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay perfectly crisp and fresh for up to two weeks! Just be sure they’re completely cooled before sealing to prevent any stickiness.

Freezing

If you want to make a big batch or prep ahead for the holidays, you can freeze Candied Pecans easily. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container and freeze for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature, and they’ll be just as delicious and crunchy as when you first made them.

Reheating

To bring back a bit of that fresh-from-the-oven crunch, simply spread leftover pecans on a baking sheet and warm in a 250°F (120°C) oven for about 5 minutes. Let them cool again before returning to storage—or just enjoy them warm for a truly irresistible treat!

FAQs

Can I use other types of nuts instead of pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or cashews all work beautifully in this recipe. The process stays the same, though you may need to watch different nut sizes for baking time. Candied Pecans just have that classic Southern charm, but don’t be afraid to get creative.

How do I prevent my Candied Pecans from clumping together?

Stirring the pecans every 15 minutes while baking helps keep them separate and ensures an even, crisp coating. Also, make sure you spread them in a single layer on the baking sheet and wait until they’re fully cooled before breaking them apart or storing.

Why are my pecans not crispy?

This usually means they need a bit more baking time, or they weren’t fully cooled before storing. Always let your Candied Pecans cool completely on the tray—this is when they reach their peak crunchiness!

Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?

Yes! Brown sugar brings a deeper, almost caramel-like flavor that’s absolutely delicious. You can substitute all or part of the granulated sugar with brown sugar for a richer twist on classic Candied Pecans.

Are Candied Pecans gluten-free and vegetarian?

Yes, Candied Pecans are naturally gluten-free and vegetarian, making them an amazing snack or topping for a wide range of diets. Just check that your vanilla extract is gluten-free if you need to be absolutely sure!

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about sharing homemade Candied Pecans—whether you’re gifting them, stirring them into a salad, or nibbling straight from the jar, their sweet crunch is simply unforgettable. Give this recipe a try and let yourself (and your lucky friends) fall for this classic treat all over again!

Candied Pecans Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.5 from 29 reviews

Author: Kimberly
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 4 cups
Category: Snack
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten-Free, Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Learn how to make delicious Candied Pecans that are perfect as a snack or topping for salads. These sweet and crunchy pecans are easy to prepare and make a great homemade gift.

Ingredients

Pecan Halves:

1 lb;

Granulated Sugar:

1 cup;

Ground Cinnamon:

1 teaspoon;

Salt:

½ teaspoon;

Vanilla Extract: