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candied pecans on a nonstick skillet
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5 from 1 vote

Easy Candied Pecans

These candied pecans are very simple to make! They take just 5 minutes, and are the perfect complement for salads, baked goods, and so much more. They get perfectly caramelized. This recipe makes 1 cup.
Prep Time1 minute
Cook Time4 minutes
Total Time5 minutes
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 223kcal
Author: Tania

Ingredients

  • 1 cup pecan halves
  • ¼ cup light brown sugar, packed or granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon water, plus more as needed
  • A pinch of salt

Instructions

  • In an 8-inch non-stick skillet, toast the pecans over medium-high heat for about 1 minute, tossing. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  • Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet, stir in the sugar, water, and a pinch of salt. Stir. Allow everything to melt.
  • Then, toss in the pecans in a single layer. Once it starts to bubble up, stir occasionally for 1 to 2 minutes until coated and thickened.
  • Turn off the heat and transfer the candied pecans onto a piece of parchment paper and allow them to cool. If desire, chop them up and serve as garnish on salads, baked goods, and more.

Notes

  • Be sure to use a non-stick skillet to prevent the sugar from sticking to the pan.
  • Use medium heat to simmer the pecans with the sugary mixture for best results.
  • Optional flavor add-ins: cayenne pepper (for heat), cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, etc.
  • Make ahead and storage: Let cool completely. Then store in an airtight container for up to 1 week at room temperature.
  • Freezing: Arrange on a sheet and and freeze for 45 minutes. Once hardened, transfer to a freezer-friendly resealable bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw or rehear in the oven or stovetop.
 
Substitutions:
  • Pecans: Walnuts
  • Brown sugar: Granulated sugar.
 
Disclaimer: Nutritional values (per serving) are approximates only.

Nutrition

Serving: 0.25cup | Calories: 223kcal | Carbohydrates: 17g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 10g | Sodium: 4mg | Potassium: 120mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 14g | Vitamin A: 14IU | Vitamin C: 0.3mg | Calcium: 29mg | Iron: 1mg