Candied Pecans Recipe
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Candied Pecans Recipe
Description
Candied pecans begin by whisking egg whites and vanilla until frothy, which helps the sugar mixture adhere to the nuts evenly. Then, a blend of light brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and kosher salt is added to coat the pecans thoroughly. The coated nuts are spread on a parchment-lined baking sheet and baked at 300°F for about 30 minutes, stirred occasionally to ensure even caramelization.
The baking process slowly melts the sugars, forming a crunchy, sugary crust around each nut while maintaining the nut’s natural crunch inside. The cinnamon and salt enhance the sweetness and balance the flavor complexity, making these nuts suitable for various uses.
These candied nuts complement salads, especially those with fruit or creamy dressings, and add texture and sweetness to desserts like ice cream or cakes. They can be stored airtight at room temperature for several weeks, retaining their crispness.
For a spicy variation, a few teaspoons of Sriracha can be added to the egg white mixture to provide a subtle heat.
Ingredients
- 4 cups nuts pecans, walnuts, or almonds from the baking aisle all work well
- 1 large egg room temp, white
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ⅔ cups light brown sugar packed
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp kosher salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 300F, with rack on upper middle position. Line large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg white and vanilla until very frothy.
- In a large bowl, combine the nuts with frothy egg mixture. Stir to coat evenly.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add sugar mixture to the nut mixture. Stir until fully coated.
- Spread coated nuts on parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for 30 minutes, quickly stirring 1-2 times in between. Let cool completely and keep in airtight container.
Notes
- Add 2-3 teaspoons of Sriracha to the egg white mixture for a spicy twist on candied pecans.
- Store candied pecans in an airtight container at room temperature to preserve freshness for several weeks.
- Use candied pecans to add crunch to salad mixes, desserts, or as a standalone snack.
- Stir the nuts once or twice during baking to ensure even coating and prevent burning.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 20servings (makes about 4 cups)
Amount Per Serving
Calories 214 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 214kcal | 11% |
| Carbohydrates | 18g | 6% |
| Protein | 5g | 10% |
| Fat | 15g | 23% |
| Saturated Fat | 2g | 10% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3g | 18% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 9g | 45% |
| Sodium | 135mg | 6% |
| Potassium | 186mg | 4% |
| Fiber | 3g | 12% |
| Sugar | 11g | 22% |
| Vitamin A | 5IU | 0% |
| Vitamin C | 0.4mg | 0% |
| Calcium | 28mg | 3% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.