Name: Easy Candied Pecans
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup light brown sugar; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon salt; 16 ounces unsalted pecan halves (about 4 cups); 1 egg white; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon water; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup brown sugar; 1 tablespoon cinnamon; 1 teaspoon ground cloves; 3 egg whites; 2 tablespoons vanilla extract; 6 cups pecan halves

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If you have a craving for something sweet, crunchy, and absolutely irresistible, let me introduce you to these Easy Candied Pecans. They’re a perfect blend of sugary cinnamon goodness and that nutty pecan crunch you’ll want to munch on anytime. Whether you’re topping a salad, jazzing up your desserts, or gifting something homemade this holiday season, these Easy Candied Pecans deliver a rich flavor and texture that makes every bite a little celebration.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white slow cooker filled with layers of ingredients. At the back and taking up nearly half of the space are medium brown pecans with a slightly frosted look. On the right side is a white grainy layer of granulated sugar. The bottom half has light brown sugar spread unevenly with three small piles of spices on top: a dark brown pile of ground cloves near the center, a medium brown pile of cinnamon to the right, and a small white pile of salt to the left. The slow cooker sits on a white marbled surface with a few pecans scattered around and parts of a red cloth visible at the bottom. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic behind these Easy Candied Pecans lies in their simple yet thoughtful ingredients, each playing a key role in creating that perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and crispness. Getting these essentials right means you’re halfway to pecan perfection!

Granulated sugar: Adds a classic sweet crunch that caramelizes beautifully on the pecans.
Light brown sugar: Brings a subtle molasses depth that enriches the flavor complexity.
Ground cinnamon: Provides warm, aromatic spice that complements the nuts perfectly.
Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
Unsalted pecan halves: The star of the show, offering natural buttery richness and satisfying crunch.
Egg white: Acts as the secret binder that helps the sugar mixture stick evenly to the pecans.
Vanilla extract: Adds subtle sweetness and an inviting fragrance that elevates the entire dish.
Water: Helps to mix the egg white smoothly for even coating.

How to Make Easy Candied Pecans

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit and lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a baking mat for easy cleanup. Mix your sugars, cinnamon, and salt in a small bowl — this spice-sugar blend is what will give your Easy Candied Pecans that signature glow and flavor.

Step 2: Whisk the Egg White Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk the egg white, vanilla extract, and water until frothy. This fluffy mixture is essential because it helps every pecan get evenly coated with that sweet, spiced sugar. Nothing clumps, nothing slips away — just wonderfully sticky pecans ready for their sugar hug.

Step 3: Coat the Pecans

Add your pecan halves to the egg white mixture and gently toss them until every piece is glistening. Then sprinkle your sugar and cinnamon blend over the nuts, tossing again to ensure every crumb of sweetness is attached. This step is crucial to ensure that crunchy candy shell forms just right during baking.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Spread the coated pecans in a single layer on your baking sheet and pop them into the oven. Bake for about 40 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to toast them evenly and develop that irresistible glaze. Your kitchen will start smelling like a cozy cinnamon dream — that’s your signal they’re nearly done!

Step 5: Cool and Store

Once baked, let the pecans cool completely on the baking sheet. This resting time allows the sugary coating to harden perfectly around each nut. Store your Easy Candied Pecans in an airtight container to keep their crunch when you’re ready to enjoy or share them.

How to Serve Easy Candied Pecans

A baking tray lined with white parchment paper filled with a single even layer of roasted pecans, showing a rich brown color with a slightly rough texture from seasoning, each pecan piece split or whole, spread out uniformly. The tray is placed on a white marbled surface, and there is a red and white striped cloth visible on the right side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Easy Candied Pecans make fabulous garnishes that instantly elevate any dish. Sprinkle them on top of creamy yogurt or ice cream for a delightful crunch and sweetness contrast, or use them as a finishing touch on roasted vegetables or winter salads to add vibrant texture and color.

Side Dishes

Pair these pecans alongside cheese boards or fresh fruit platters to add a sweet, crunchy element that balances savory and creamy flavors. They also work brilliantly tossed into your favorite green salads, lending a rich, nutty note and an exciting textural twist.

Creative Ways to Present

Wrap them in clear cellophane bags tied with a ribbon for charming homemade gifts, or scatter them over caramel-drizzled popcorn for a festive sweet snack. Mixing these Easy Candied Pecans into baked goods like muffins or sprinkled over cakes adds a nutty crunch that your guests will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Easy Candied Pecans can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one month. Keeping them sealed is key to maintaining that fresh, crunchy texture and preventing humidity from softening their delightful candy shell.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the pecans in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. When properly sealed, they keep well for up to three months without sacrificing flavor or crunch — perfect for making ahead for holidays or special occasions.

Reheating

If your pecans lose a bit of their crispness after storage, simply warm them in a low oven (around 250 degrees) for a few minutes. This will help revive their crunch and refresh the lovely candied coating, bringing them back to life instantly.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Absolutely! Almonds, walnuts, or cashews can be swapped in, though cooking times and textures may vary slightly. Pecans, however, bring a unique buttery flavor that pairs beautifully with this sweet cinnamon coating.

Is it possible to make Easy Candied Pecans without an oven?

Yes! You can use the crock-pot method described in the recipe for a hands-off approach that results in equally delicious pecans, just with a different cooking time and texture profile.

How long do Easy Candied Pecans last?

When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, these pecans stay fresh and crunchy for up to one month, making them ideal for prepping in advance.

Can I adjust the sweetness or spice?

Feel free to customize the sugar or cinnamon quantities to suit your taste. Reducing sugar will make less sweet nuts, while adding a pinch of cayenne can add an exciting spicy kick.

Are Easy Candied Pecans gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat or gluten-containing ingredients, making it a great snack option for those with gluten sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

Making Easy Candied Pecans at home is a little act of love that pays off deliciously every time. Once you’ve tasted the perfect combination of sweet, crunchy, and spiced, these pecans will become your go-to for snacking, gifting, and adding that special touch to any dish. So go ahead, grab those pecans, and start creating some tasty memories!