Candied pecans are a delightful treat that combines the rich, buttery flavor of pecans with a sweet, crunchy coating. Whether you enjoy them on their own as a snack or use them to add a crunchy texture to salads, desserts, or other dishes, candied pecans are sure to be a hit. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make candied pecans at home with just a few simple ingredients. Let’s get started!
Ingredients for Candied Pecans
- 1 cup pecan halves
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg white
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Candied Pecans
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Pecans: In a medium bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
- Whisk the Egg White: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg white, water, and vanilla extract until frothy.
- Coat the Pecans: Add the pecans to the egg white mixture and toss until well coated. Drain off any excess egg white.
- Coat with Sugar Mixture: Add the pecans to the sugar mixture and toss until evenly coated.
- Bake the Pecans: Spread the pecans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 30-40 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, until the pecans are golden brown and crisp.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the pecans from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
About the Main Ingredients
Understanding the main ingredients in candied pecans can help you appreciate their flavors and textures.
Pecans: Pecans are a type of nut with a rich, buttery flavor and a slightly sweet taste. They are high in healthy fats, protein, and fiber, making them a nutritious snack option.
Sugar: Granulated sugar and brown sugar are used to sweeten the pecans and create a crunchy coating when baked. The sugars caramelize in the oven, adding depth of flavor to the pecans.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon adds warmth and spice to the candied pecans, complementing the sweetness of the sugars.
Salt: A pinch of salt enhances the flavors of the other ingredients and balances the sweetness of the sugars.
Egg White: The egg white acts as a binding agent, helping the sugar mixture adhere to the pecans and creating a crispy coating when baked.
Water and Vanilla Extract: The water helps to thin the egg white mixture, making it easier to coat the pecans. The vanilla extract adds a subtle flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Candied pecans are a simple and delicious treat that can be enjoyed on their own or used to add a sweet crunch to a variety of dishes. With just a few ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a batch of these tasty nuts to enjoy anytime. So why not give this recipe a try and savor the sweet, crunchy goodness of homemade candied pecans?
