Description
This Homemade Candied Pecans Recipe creates a sweet, crunchy snack perfect for salads, desserts, or simply enjoying on their own. The pecans are coated in a cinnamon-sugar mixture, toasted in the oven, and finished with a hint of vanilla for extra flavor and crispiness.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 1 cup pecan halves
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Melt Butter and Mix Sugar: In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir continuously until the sugar begins to dissolve and the mixture is well combined, about 1 to 2 minutes.
- Coat Pecans: Add pecan halves to the skillet and toss to coat them evenly with the sugar and butter mixture.
- Bake Pecans: Spread the coated pecans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even toasting. The pecans should be toasted and the sugar bubbly.
- Add Vanilla and Cool: Remove the pecans from the oven and stir in the vanilla extract. Allow the pecans to cool completely on the baking sheet; they will become crisp as they cool.
- Store: Once cooled, store the candied pecans in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks to maintain freshness and crunch.
Notes
- Watch the pecans closely during baking as the sugar can burn quickly.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or nutmeg to the sugar mixture.
- Candied pecans are a versatile snack that pair well with salads, desserts, or can be enjoyed on their own.
