Easy Candied Pecans come together in only 5 minutes on your stovetop! Learn how to make candied pecans quickly to throw on salads, yogurt, desserts, snacking, and so much more!
Once you see for yourself how easy it is to throw together Candied Pecans, you will never purchase them again!
This recipe takes a mere five minutes to throw together and uses four simple ingredients – pecans, brown sugar, maple syrup, and salt. Plus this recipe is gluten free, vegan, and dairy-free so snack away!
How To Make Candied Pecans
First line a baking sheet with parchment paper so the hot candied pecans can be transferred quickly.
A silicone baking mat may also be used, but avoid using wax paper because the nuts will stick.
Stir together brown sugar, maple syrup, water, and salt. Heat over medium heat until bubbly and sugar visibly dissolves.
Once the sugar dissolves stir in the pecans. Other nuts, such as pistachios, walnuts, almonds, or mixed nuts may also be used.
Continue to cook and stir constantly until syrup thickens and reduces, about 2 minutes. Do not remove from stovetop until almost all the liquid has reduced.
Immediately pour onto prepared baking sheet and spread out with spoon. Candied nuts will harden as they cool.
How to Store Candied Pecans
First, make sure the nuts are completely cooled. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three weeks.
Can Candied Pecans Be Refrigerated?
Alternatively, store nuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up six weeks.
Can Candied Pecans Be Frozen?
Yes, freeze candied nuts in an airtight container for up to three months.
Tips For Making Candied Pecans
- Be sure to have your pan prepared ahead of time to put the hot nuts on before they cool.
- Line the baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Wax paper has a tendency to stick to the nuts.
- Don’t get distracted! The pecans only take a few minutes to cook. If you walk away or don’t stir constantly they could burn.
- Spicy Candied Pecans: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the ingredients in the skillet.
- Cinnamon Candied Pecans: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon to the ingredients in the skillet.
Why are My Candied Pecans Sticky?
They most likely didn’t cook long enough on the stovetop. Sugar has to reach a certain temperature to achieve that brittle, candy coating state.
How to Fix Sticky Candied Nuts
Transfer parchment-lined baking sheet to 325ºF oven (do not put wax paper in the oven) and bake for 5-15 minutes, or until they are less sticky.
Remember, while the sugar is still warm there will still be stickiness to them, but as the nuts cool they will harden.
How To Use Candied Pecans
- salads
- food gifts
- use in Pumpkin Pie Cake
- oatmeal
- yogurt
- topping for Chocolate Bark
- baked sweet potatoes
- Charcuterie Boards
- topping for Cranberry Baked Brie
SAVE THESE CANDIED PECANS TO YOUR PINTEREST BOARD!
And let’s be friends on Pinterest! I’m always sharing great recipes!
Apple Pecan Salad with maple vinaigrette combines fresh greens, candied pecans, crisp apples, dried cranberries, and tangy blue cheese all tossed together in a deliciously easy dressing.
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise, regular or light
- 2 teaspoons whole grain mustard
- 1 1/2 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
- 8 ounces spring mix
- 2 small apples, cored and thinly sliced
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries
- 1/3 cup blue cheese crumbles
- 1/3 cup candied pecans
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Place all dressing ingredients in a lidded jar. Shake vigorously until dressing is creamy and emulsified. Refrigerate until ready for use.
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Put spring mix in a large serving bowl and place remaining ingredients on top. Pour desired amount of dressing over salad and toss to combine.
Make Ahead Directions:
Assemble the salad without the apples and dressing, then cover bowl tightly with plastic wrap. Prepare the maple dressing and store in refrigerator.
When ready to serve, add sliced apples, give the vinaigrette a quick shake, and toss all together with the salad.
Alternately, serve the vinaigrette on the side and allow guests to dress their own salad. This will prevent the salad from becoming wilted while sitting.
❊SHOP THE RECIPE❊
Items used to make this recipe:
Stainless Steel Skillet Silicone Spoon Baking Sheet
OTHER RECIPES TO LOVE:
Apple Pecan Salad
How to Throw an Easy Brown Bag Wine Party
Lime Cucumber Cosmo
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This recipe first appeared on Easy Good Ideas where I’m a contributor.
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