There’s just something enchanting about the warm, nutty aroma wafting through the kitchen as I prepare these Maple-Cinnamon Candied Pecans. With the final notes of autumn lingering in the air, this quick recipe has become my go-to snack when the leaves start to fall and cozy vibes set in. In less than 20 minutes, I transform everyday pecans into a crunchy, sweet indulgence that’s perfect for snacking, and a delightful addition to salads or charcuterie boards.
Picture a creamy sweet potato salad topped with these sticky-sweet gems, or a festive gathering where everyone is reaching for your irresistible nut mix. Not only are these candied pecans gluten-free and vegan, but their versatility leaves room for creativity—whether adding a hint of bourbon or spicing things up with cayenne pepper. Join me in whipping up this crowd-pleasing treat that is sure to bring a touch of magic to your kitchen and delight your taste buds!
Why is this candied pecan recipe a must-try?
Quick and Easy: This recipe takes under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of maple syrup and cinnamon creates a sweet and warm profile that will have everyone coming back for more.
Versatile Snack: Enjoy them on their own, or use them to elevate salads and festive spreads.
Healthy Indulgence: Packed with healthy fats and natural sugars, these pecans are a guilt-free treat.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, these candied pecans are sure to impress friends and family alike! For more delightful snack ideas, check out my favorite healthy snacks.
Candied Pecan Ingredients
• Ready to whip up your very own candied pecans? Here’s what you’ll need!
For the Pecans
- Raw Pecans – The star of the show, providing a rich, nutty crunch; feel free to swap with walnuts or almonds for a unique taste.
For the Sweet Coating
- Maple Syrup – This natural sweetener coats the pecans perfectly; agave syrup can be used if you prefer a vegan alternative.
- Cinnamon – Adds a warm, comforting flavor; nutmeg makes a great substitute for a spicier kick.
- Kosher Salt – Just a pinch enhances the sweetness and balances all the flavors; sea salt works as an excellent alternative too.
Get ready to create your delicious candied pecan recipe in no time!
How to Make Candied Pecans
Combine Ingredients: In a medium pot, mix raw pecans, maple syrup, cinnamon, and kosher salt. Heat over medium, stirring constantly until it simmers. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
Simmer Mixture: Keep stirring and let it simmer for 8 to 10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the syrup thickens and begins to shrink down, coating the nuts beautifully.
Spread on Tray: Pour the pecan mixture onto a parchment-lined baking tray, ensuring they are well spread out to prevent clumping. Let them cool for at least 10 minutes—this helps achieve that perfect crunch!
Break Apart: After cooling, gently break apart any pecans that might have stuck together. Enjoy them right away or store as desired for later snacking!
Optional: Drizzle with a touch of extra maple syrup for an added sweetness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Candied Pecans
Room Temperature: Store candied pecans in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain their crunch.
Fridge: If you prefer, refrigerate your pecans in an airtight container for up to 1 month. This helps prolong their freshness, but may affect the texture slightly.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your candied pecans in a sealed freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before use.
Reheating: If desired, re-crisp your pecans in a single layer on a baking sheet at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes before serving to rejuvenate their crunchy goodness.
Expert Tips for Candied Pecans
- Quality Nuts: Choose fresh, raw pecans for the best flavor; stale nuts can ruin your candied pecan recipe’s taste.
- Watch the Heat: Keep an eye on the simmering mixture; cooking too long can burn the syrup, leading to a bitter flavor.
- Cool Completely: Let the pecans cool fully on the baking tray; this prevents stickiness due to moisture and ensures a better crunch.
- Add Ins: Feel free to mix in spices like cayenne or nutmeg for a unique twist; just be careful not to overpower the sweetness.
- Store Right: Use airtight containers to store your candied pecans; they stay fresh for up to 2 weeks at room temperature—perfect for snacking anytime!
What to Serve with Maple-Cinnamon Candied Pecans?
Experience the joy of crafting a deliciously complete meal that showcases these sweet, crunchy delights.
- Sweet Potato Salad: Elevate a creamy sweet potato salad with the pecans’ crunch, adding a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
- Waldorf Salad: This classic salad benefits from a sprinkle of candied pecans for a nutty sweetness against the tart apples and celery.
- Charcuterie Board: Add these candied pecans to a festive cheese board; their sweetness pairs beautifully with sharp cheeses and cured meats.
- Roasted Vegetables: The sticky-sweet pecans make for a tasty topping on roasted Brussels sprouts or root vegetables, enhancing their earthy flavors.
- Ice Cream Topping: Drizzle your favorite vanilla ice cream with candied pecans for a decadent dessert that brings warmth and sweetness to every bite.
- Herbal Tea: Pair a cozy cup of herbal tea with candied pecans for a soothing afternoon snack that feels indulgent yet wholesome.
- Sparkling Cider: This refreshing drink complements the flavors of the pecans perfectly, making any fall gathering feel festive and lively.
Get creative and mix and match these ideas for a delightful spread that embraces the season!
Candied Pecan Variations
Embrace your culinary creativity with these delightful twists that will enhance your candied pecan experience!
Nut Mix: Combine with walnuts or almonds for a delicious mixed nut medley. The variety will add exciting textures and flavors to your snack.
Spiked Sweetness: Add a splash of bourbon during cooking for a fun, adult twist. The warm notes will complement the maple and cinnamon beautifully.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bold, spicy variant. It creates a fantastic contrast with the sweet coating and can please those who love a little heat.
Chocolate Drizzle: After cooling, drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the pecans for a decadent finish. This sweet layer elevates the indulgence, making it even more irresistible.
Citrus Zest: Stir in some finely grated orange or lemon zest into the mixture before cooking. The citrus brightness will enhance the overall flavor profile, adding a fresh dimension.
Herbal Infusion: Try adding a sprinkle of fresh rosemary or thyme during the cooking process. These herbs infuse a uniquely aromatic quality that pairs surprisingly well with the sweetness.
Sweet Maple-Bourbon Cream: Create a sweet cream by blending maple syrup with vegan cream cheese and bourbon. Serve this as a dip for your candied pecans for a decadent treat that’s perfect for sharing.
Nutty Granola: Fold the candied pecans into homemade granola or yogurt parfaits for a hearty breakfast treat. This twist not only adds flavor but also boosts the nutritional value of your meal!
Make Ahead Options
These candied pecans are a fantastic snack to prep in advance, saving you time during busy days! You can prepare the pecans up to 24 hours ahead; simply follow the recipe instructions, cool them completely, and store in an airtight container at room temperature. To maintain their delightful crunch and prevent stickiness, ensure any moisture is fully evaporated before storing. When you’re ready to enjoy these delicious treats, just take them out and serve—no further cooking required! They’ll be just as irresistible as when they were freshly made, providing you a quick and satisfying snack option whenever you need it.
Candied Pecans Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting raw pecans?
Absolutely! Look for pecans that are fresh and whole. Avoid any with dark spots all over or rancid smells, as these indicate they’re past their prime. Fresh pecans will have a firm texture and a pleasant, nutty aroma.
How should I store my candied pecans, and how long will they last?
Candied pecans can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them for up to 1 month while keeping them sealed tightly. Have leftover pecans that you want to save even longer? Freeze them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months! Just remember to thaw them overnight in the fridge before serving.
Can I freeze candied pecans? What’s the best way to do it?
Absolutely! To freeze your candied pecans, let them cool completely and then place them in a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container. This will prevent freezer burn and keep them fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just take out the desired portion and let them thaw in the fridge overnight. If you want to re-crisp them, you can spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
What can I do if my pecans clump together after cooking?
Very! If your candied pecans stick together, don’t worry! Once they’ve cooled, gently break them apart with your fingers. If they are still stubborn, place them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This will help loosen their sticky coating.
Are these candied pecans suitable for people with nut allergies?
While this candied pecan recipe is gluten-free and vegan, it’s essential to note that they contain pecans, which may not be safe for those with nut allergies. If someone in your household has a nut allergy, you might want to explore alternatives like roasted chickpeas or pumpkin seeds instead to keep snacking safe!
Can I enhance the flavor of my candied pecans?
Definitely! There are endless ways to add a unique twist to your candied pecans. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a splash of bourbon or spices like cayenne for some heat. Adjusting the cinnamon level will also give you a different flavor profile, so don’t hesitate to experiment and find your favorite combination!
Sweet Maple Cinnamon Candied Pecan Recipe Ready in 20 Minutes
Equipment
- - Medium pot
- - Baking tray
- - Parchment paper
Ingredients
For the Pecans
- 2 cups Raw Pecans Feel free to swap with walnuts or almonds.
For the Sweet Coating
- 1 cup Maple Syrup Agave syrup can be used as a vegan alternative.
- 1 teaspoon Cinnamon Nutmeg makes a great substitute.
- 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Sea salt works as an excellent alternative.
Instructions
How to Make Candied Pecans
- In a medium pot, mix raw pecans, maple syrup, cinnamon, and kosher salt. Heat over medium, stirring constantly until it simmers. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Keep stirring and let it simmer for 8 to 10 minutes. You’ll know it's ready when the syrup thickens and begins to shrink down, coating the nuts beautifully.
- Pour the pecan mixture onto a parchment-lined baking tray, ensuring they are well spread out to prevent clumping. Let them cool for at least 10 minutes.
- After cooling, gently break apart any pecans that might have stuck together. Enjoy them right away or store as desired for later snacking!