Candied Pecans
Indulge in the delightful sweetness of candied pecans, a treat that elevates any dish with its crunchy texture and rich flavor. Perfect as a snack, topping for salads, or as an ingredient in desserts, candied pecans are a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. This simple recipe will make your kitchen smell heavenly and your taste buds dance with joy!
Ingredients
- 1 cup pecan halves
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields about 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, with a cooking time of 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 cup) of candied pecans contains approximately 200 calories, 20g fat, 4g carbohydrates, and 2g protein. This is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a saucepan, combine sugar, water, and salt.
- Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
- Add vanilla extract and cinnamon, stirring to combine.
- Add pecans to the saucepan and stir until coated.
- Spread the pecans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
- Break apart any clumps and enjoy your candied pecans!
Alternative Ingredients
You can use other nuts such as walnuts or almonds in place of pecans. For a different flavor, consider using maple syrup instead of granulated sugar, or try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Serving and Pairings
Candied pecans pair beautifully with salads, especially those containing greens and fruits. They also make a delicious topping for desserts like ice cream or yogurt, adding both crunch and sweetness.
Storage and Reheating
Store candied pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. They can also be frozen for longer storage. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven for a few minutes to restore their crunch.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t rush the sugar melting process; it needs to dissolve completely.
- Be careful not to overcook the nuts, as they can burn quickly.
- Stir the pecans frequently while baking to ensure even coating.
- Allow them to cool completely before storing to prevent stickiness.
- Don’t skip the parchment paper; it prevents sticking.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cloves.
- Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of sugar.
- For a healthier version, consider using coconut sugar.
- Chop the pecans for smaller pieces if desired.
- Mix in chocolate chips after cooling for an indulgent treat.
FAQs
How long do candied pecans last?
Candied pecans can last up to two weeks when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, freezing is an option, and they can last for several months in the freezer.
Can I use raw pecans?
Yes, raw pecans can be used for this recipe. The baking process will toast them, enhancing their flavor and crunch.
Are candied pecans healthy?
While they do contain sugar and calories, pecans are a good source of healthy fats and nutrients. Enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Can I make them vegan?
Yes, this recipe is already vegan-friendly as it doesn’t require any animal products.
What can I use instead of sugar?
You can substitute granulated sugar with alternatives like coconut sugar, honey, or maple syrup. Just adjust the quantity accordingly, as these alternatives may have different sweetness levels.
Conclusion
Candied pecans are a delightful treat that can elevate any dish or be enjoyed on their own. With their crunchy texture and sweet flavor, they are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Try making them today and enjoy the deliciousness!
Candied Pecans
Ingredients
- 1 cup pecan halves
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon optional
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a saucepan, combine sugar, water, and salt.
- Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
- Add vanilla extract and cinnamon, stirring to combine.
- Add pecans to the saucepan and stir until coated.
- Spread the pecans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
- Break apart any clumps and enjoy your candied pecans!
