Easy Candied Pecans

Name: Easy Candied Pecans
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 egg white; 3 tablespoons granulated sugar; ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon; ¼ teaspoon coarse kosher salt; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1 cup pecan halves

Published: December 5, 2025

by kaeli

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple Ingredients: You only need a handful of pantry staples to whip up this delicious snack.
Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you’ll have a tasty treat ready in no time.
Versatile Use: Add them to salads, cupcakes, or serve them on cheese boards for an extra flavor boost.
Naturally Gluten-Free: Perfect for those with dietary restrictions, making them suitable for everyone.
Addictive Taste: The combination of sugar and spices creates a mouthwatering crunch that’s hard to resist.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your easy candied pecans, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment can make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Baking sheet
Parchment paper or silicone mat
Medium bowl
Slotted spoon
Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking and helps achieve that perfect crunch.
Parchment paper or silicone mat: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Medium bowl: Ideal for mixing ingredients without splatter or mess.

Ingredients

To make these delicious easy candied pecans, you will need the following ingredients:

1 egg white
3 tablespoons granulated sugar
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon coarse kosher salt
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup pecan halves

How to Make Easy Candied Pecans

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prepare for the pecans.

Step 2: Mix Sugar and Spices

In a medium bowl, mix together:
* 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
* ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
* ¼ teaspoon coarse kosher salt

Step 3: Whisk Egg White and Vanilla

In another bowl, whisk together:
1. 1 egg white
2. 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Continue whisking until the mixture is nice and frothy, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Pecans with Egg Mixture

Add 1 cup of pecan halves to the frothed egg white mixture. Make sure all nuts are well-coated.

Step 5: Coat Pecans with Sugar Mixture

Using a slotted spoon, remove the nuts from the egg mixture. Toss the pecans in the sugar mixture until they are evenly coated.

Step 6: Bake the Pecans

Transfer the coated pecans onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread them out into a single layer for even cooking.

Step 7: Stir Occasionally While Baking

Bake the pecans while stirring every 15 minutes. Continue until they are evenly browned and crisp, which should take about 45 minutes.

Step 8: Cool and Store

Remove from oven and let cool completely before storing. If desired, chop the candied pecans into smaller pieces for topping dishes.

Enjoy your homemade Easy Candied Pecans, perfect for snacking or adding flair to your favorite dishes!

How to Serve Easy Candied Pecans

Candied pecans are versatile and can enhance various dishes, adding a delicious crunch and sweetness. Here are some fantastic serving suggestions to enjoy your Easy Candied Pecans.

On Salads

Mixed Greens Salad: Toss candied pecans with mixed greens, goat cheese, and a balsamic vinaigrette for a delightful contrast.
Spinach Salad: Combine spinach, strawberries, feta cheese, and candied pecans for a fresh and vibrant dish.

As a Snack

On Their Own: Enjoy them straight from the bowl for an addictive snack.
With Cheese: Pair with a variety of cheeses on a cheese board for a perfect sweet and savory balance.

In Desserts

Cupcake Topping: Sprinkle candied pecans on top of cupcakes for added texture and flavor.
Ice Cream Garnish: Use as a topping on vanilla or chocolate ice cream for an extra crunch.

In Breakfast Dishes

Oatmeal Topping: Add to your morning oatmeal or yogurt for a sweet crunch.
Pancake Garnish: Sprinkle over pancakes or waffles with syrup for a special breakfast treat.

How to Perfect Easy Candied Pecans

To achieve the best results with your Easy Candied Pecans, consider these helpful tips.

Use Fresh Nuts: Fresh pecans have better flavor and crunch. Check expiration dates when purchasing.
Whip Egg Whites Well: Make sure the egg whites are frothy; this helps the sugar mixture stick better to the nuts.
Stir Regularly While Baking: Stirring every 15 minutes ensures even browning and prevents burning.
Adjust Sugar to Taste: If you prefer sweeter nuts, feel free to add more sugar to the mixture before baking.
Cool Completely Before Storing: Allowing them to cool completely helps maintain their crispiness when stored.
Store in an Airtight Container: This keeps your candied pecans fresh and crunchy longer.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Candied Pecans

Adding side dishes that complement the sweetness of Easy Candied Pecans can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The earthy flavor pairs well with sweet pecans, creating a delightful balance.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with veggies provides a nutritious base that contrasts nicely with sugary nuts.
Sweet Potato Casserole: The sweetness of the casserole harmonizes perfectly with the crunch of candied pecans on top.
Caramelized Carrots: The sweetness from caramelization complements the nutty flavors beautifully.
Green Bean Almondine: Substitute almonds with candied pecans for an interesting twist on this classic dish.
Apple Salad: A fresh apple salad adds tartness that contrasts wonderfully with the sweet nuts, making it refreshing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy Candied Pecans can be a delightful experience, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Using stale pecans: Always check the freshness of your pecans. Stale nuts can ruin the flavor and texture of your candied pecans.
Not whisking enough: If you don’t whisk the egg white and vanilla extract until frothy, the sugar mixture won’t adhere well to the pecans. Aim for a nice froth!
Skipping the parchment paper: Baking directly on a sheet can lead to sticking. Always line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy removal.
Overcrowding the baking sheet: Ensure that the pecans are spread out in a single layer. Overcrowding can result in uneven cooking and soggy spots.
Ignoring baking time: The pecans should be stirred every 15 minutes to ensure even browning. Don’t skip this step, or you might end up with burnt nuts!

Refrigerator Storage

Easy Candied Pecans can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Make sure they are completely cooled before storing to avoid moisture.

Freezing Easy Candied Pecans

You can freeze your Easy Candied Pecans for up to 3 months.
Use an airtight container or freezer bag, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating Easy Candied Pecans

Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Spread the pecans on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-10 minutes until warm.
Microwave: Place them in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat for 20-30 seconds at a time until warm.
Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over low heat. Add the pecans and stir gently for a few minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Easy Candied Pecans?

Easy Candied Pecans are sweetened nuts that are baked until crispy. They make a great snack or topping for various dishes.

How long do Easy Candied Pecans last?

When stored properly, Easy Candied Pecans can last up to two weeks in the refrigerator or three months in the freezer.

Can I use different nuts?

Yes! While this recipe uses pecans, you can substitute other nuts like walnuts or almonds if desired.

Are Easy Candied Pecans gluten-free?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

Final Thoughts

Easy Candied Pecans are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. They make an excellent snack on their own or serve as toppings for salads, desserts, and more. Feel free to customize them by adding spices or using different types of nuts for added variety!

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