Pecans are toasted on the stovetop and feature a sweet, crunchy coating.
Are you looking for an easy and delicious way to add some pizzazz to your salads, brownies, or other desserts? Then look no further than candied pecans! This simple stovetop recipe is perfect for anyone who wants to elevate their home cooking game. Best of all, they’re incredibly easy to make – all you need are a few basic ingredients and about 10 minutes of your time. So what are you waiting for? Try out this fantastic recipe today!
Why I Love these Candied Pecans
There is just something so delicious about candied nuts. My Candied Walnuts recipe which is also made on the stovetop is simply scrumptious. By simply cooking these nuts in a homemade caramel they get caramelized with a scrumptious depth of toasted flavor.
How to Make Candied Pecans
Prepare your work area with your ingredients, skillet, and a parchment-lined baking sheet. This recipe moves quickly, so preparation is key. Parchment paper on a baking sheet is ideal because it allows the nuts to be spread out.
For this recipe, unsalted (or salted) pecans halves work best. You can get about two pounds for under $10 at Walmart.
In a large nonstick skillet, over medium-high heat add the brown and water. Stir frequently until the mixture is rapidly bubbling.
Add in the pecans and be sure they are all coated. Continue to stir for about 3 minutes making sure not to burn the caramel. Most of the liquid will be gone.
Immediately remove the pan from the heat and transfer the pecans to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Be sure they are in a single layer because they will harden and stick to one another if not.
Allow candied pecans to stay at room temperature for about an hour. Pecans should be fully cooled and hardened.
How Long do Candied Pecans Last?
Candied pecans will not last as long as plain pecans, but there are three ways you can store these.
Room Temperature: Once cooled and set, these pecans can be stored in an airtight jar, bag, or airtight container for up to 3 weeks for best taste.
Refrigerator: These will last for up to 2 months stored in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator.
Freezer: These can also be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months when stored in an airtight, freezer-safe container.
Recipe Variations
Want to add some more flavor to your nuts? Check out these mix ins.
Cinnamon – Add 1 tablespoon to the brown sugar & water mixture.
Vanilla – Add one teaspoon of vanilla extract to the brown sugar & water mixture.
Cayenne – Add 3/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the brown sugar & water mixture.
As you can see it is fairly easy to tweak your pecan flavors!
Recipes to Use Candied Pecans
Candied pecans are perfect for overnight oats, salads, yogurt, snacking, and added to baked goods. Here are a few fun recipes where they would be ideal!
- Watermelon Fruit Caprese Salad
- Zucchini Banana Muffins
- Sweet Potato Casserole
- Carrot Bundt Cake
- Brown Butter Pecan Chocolate Chunk Cookies
Candied Pecans
Equipment
- large skillet
- Measuring cups and spoons
- baking sheet
- parchment paper
- Wooden Spoon
Ingredients
- 2 cups pecan halves
- ½ cup light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
- In a large nonstick skillet, over medium-high heat add the brown and water. Stir frequently until the mixture is rapidly bubbling.
- Add in the pecans and be sure they are all coated. Continue to stir for about 3 minutes making sure not to burn the caramel. Most of the liquid will be gone.
- Immediately remove the pan from the heat and transfer the pecans to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Be sure they are in a single layer because they will harden and stick to one another if not.
- Allow candied pecans to stay at room temperature for about an hour. Pecans should be fully cooled, and hardened.
- Store leftovers in an airtight bag for up to a week at room temperature. These can also be stored in the refridgerator for u to 2 weeks and the freezer for up to 3 months.
Leave a Reply