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How to Make Sweet & Crunchy Candied Pecans
Step 1: Prepare the Pecans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Spread the pecans evenly on the baking sheet in a single layer to ensure they toast evenly.
Step 2: Make the Candied Coating
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, salt, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Stir the mixture continuously as the sugar melts and combines with the butter, creating a smooth caramel-like sauce. Let the mixture cook for 2-3 minutes until it becomes glossy and smooth.
Step 3: Coat the Pecans
Pour the melted sugar mixture over the pecans. Stir them gently to coat each piece thoroughly with the sugary mixture. Make sure the pecans are evenly coated for that perfect crunch in every bite!
Step 4: Toast the Pecans
Place the baking sheet with the pecans in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, stirring the pecans every 10 minutes to ensure they toast evenly and don’t burn. You’ll notice the coating becoming thick and shiny as it bakes, and the pecans will begin to smell wonderful.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Once the pecans are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet. The candy coating will harden as they cool, creating that delightful crunch. Once cooled, you can store them in an airtight container for up to a week—or if you’re feeling generous, you can package them in pretty jars for gifts!
Why These Candied Pecans Are So Delicious
The Sweet & Crunchy Candied Pecans strike the perfect balance between sweet and savory. The caramelized sugar creates a crunchy, glossy coating that enhances the natural flavor of the pecans. The butter adds richness and helps the sugar stick to the nuts, while the vanilla extract and cinnamon bring an added layer of warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
In addition to being utterly delicious, these pecans have a versatile appeal. They are perfect for snacking on their own but also make a great addition to other dishes. Toss them into a salad for some extra crunch, sprinkle them on top of oatmeal or yogurt, or use them to garnish your favorite desserts.
Perfect for Gifting
One of the best things about Sweet & Crunchy Candied Pecans is that they make an excellent gift. Packaged in cute mason jars or small gift boxes, they are a thoughtful and homemade way to share a treat with friends and family during the holidays or for any special occasion. Add a little decorative ribbon or tag, and you’ve got a beautiful, personalized gift that will surely be appreciated.
Tips for the Perfect Candied Pecans
- Keep an Eye on Them While Baking – Pecans can burn quickly, so be sure to stir them every 10 minutes and check them toward the end of baking to make sure they don’t overcook.
- Use Fresh Pecans – For the best flavor, use fresh, raw pecans. Stale nuts will have a less pleasant taste and texture.
- Experiment with Flavors – Feel free to customize your candied pecans by adding other spices, like nutmeg or allspice, or a touch of sea salt for an extra salty-sweet kick.
- Storage – Store the cooled pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks.
Final Thoughts
These Sweet & Crunchy Candied Pecans are a delightful treat that’s perfect for snacking, gifting, or adding a special touch to your recipes. The crunchy, caramelized coating combined with the rich, nutty flavor of the pecans is truly irresistible. Whether you’re preparing them for a party, holiday gathering, or just as an everyday snack, these candied pecans will be a hit with everyone who tries them. They’re easy to make, customizable, and most importantly, incredibly delicious!
Have you tried making Sweet & Crunchy Candied Pecans before? Let me know how it turned out and if you’ve added your own twist to the recipe!
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