Best Sugar-Coated Pecans Recipe

Sugar-coated pecans are a sweet, crunchy treat that’s perfect for snacking, gifting, or adding to your favorite dishes. This simple recipe elevates the natural flavor of pecans with a delicious sugary coating that caramelizes into a crispy, irresistible crunch. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a salad topper, or a flavorful addition to baked goods, sugar-coated pecans are the answer. Easy to make and sure to impress, these nuts are perfect for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Sugar-coated pecans are a perfect balance of sweet and crunchy, making them an irresistible snack or topping for salads, desserts, and even your morning oatmeal. The best part? They’re incredibly simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. This recipe gives you the flexibility to adjust sweetness levels, and you can even add a dash of cinnamon or vanilla for extra flavor. The sugary coating crisps up in the oven, turning these nuts into a treat that feels indulgent yet homemade.

Ingredients List:

• 2 cups pecan halves
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional for extra flavor)
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• Pinch of salt
• 1 tablespoon water (for extra crispness)

Optional Substitutions:

• Use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a deeper flavor.
• Swap cinnamon for other spices such as nutmeg or cardamom for variety.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin with the aid of preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the pecans from sticking and make cleanup easier. The parchment also ensures even heat distribution, which helps the nuts crisp up nicely.
2. Prepare the Pecan Coating: In a mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon (if using), and a pinch of salt. Stir the mixture to evenly distribute the ingredients. Then, pour in the melted butter and vanilla extract (if using), followed by a tablespoon of water. Mix everything well until the sugar mixture forms a smooth syrup.
3. Toss the Pecans: Add the pecan halves to the bowl with the sugar mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly to coat the nuts completely. Ensure that all the pecans are evenly covered with the sugary syrup, so every bite is packed with flavor.
4. Bake the Pecans: Spread the coated pecans out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through to prevent burning and ensure an even coating. The pecans should turn a golden brown color and smell sweet and toasty when done.
5. Cool and Serve: Once the pecans are perfectly toasted and crisp, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. They will retain to crisp up as they cool. After cooling, store your sugar-coated pecans in an airtight container for up to a week, or enjoy them immediately as a delicious snack!

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Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 220
• Fat: 20g
• Carbs: 10g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 8g
  Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on ingredient choices and portion size.

Health Benefits of Sugar-Coated Pecans:

Pecans are a powerhouse of nutrients, packed with healthy fats, fiber, and protein. They are a great source of antioxidants, including vitamin E, which supports heart health by reducing inflammation. The healthy fats in pecans, particularly monounsaturated fats, can help lower bad cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

This sugar-coated pecan recipe provides a fun, sweet way to enjoy the health benefits of pecans while satisfying your sweet tooth. By using minimal added sugar and a touch of cinnamon, you can keep it healthier compared to other sugary treats. Plus, pecans are rich in magnesium, which is essential for muscle and nerve function. Enjoying a small handful of these delicious pecans can give you a burst of energy and a heart-healthy snack option.

FAQs:

1. Can I use different nuts for this recipe? Yes, you may alternative pecans with other nuts inclusive of almonds, walnuts, or cashews. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the type of nut you use.
2. How can I make these pecans spicier? If you enjoy a bit of heat, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sugar mixture for a spicy-sweet kick. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
3. Can I make these sugar-coated pecans in advance? Absolutely! Once they’ve cooled, store the pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They make a great snack or gift.

Sugar-Coated Pecans Recipe

Course: DessertCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4-6

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

20

minutes

Calories

220

kcal

Best Of The Best

Ingredients

• 2 cups pecan halves

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional for extra flavor)

• 1 tablespoon butter, melted

• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

• Pinch of salt

• 1 tablespoon water (for extra crispness)

Directions

• Preheat the Oven: Begin with the aid of preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the pecans from sticking and make cleanup easier. The parchment also ensures even heat distribution, which helps the nuts crisp up nicely.
• Prepare the Pecan Coating: In a mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon (if using), and a pinch of salt. Stir the mixture to evenly distribute the ingredients. Then, pour in the melted butter and vanilla extract (if using), followed by a tablespoon of water. Mix everything well until the sugar mixture forms a smooth syrup.
• Toss the Pecans: Add the pecan halves to the bowl with the sugar mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly to coat the nuts completely. Ensure that all the pecans are evenly covered with the sugary syrup, so every bite is packed with flavor.
• Bake the Pecans: Spread the coated pecans out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through to prevent burning and ensure an even coating. The pecans should turn a golden brown color and smell sweet and toasty when done.
• Cool and Serve: Once the pecans are perfectly toasted and crisp, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. They will retain to crisp up as they cool. After cooling, store your sugar-coated pecans in an airtight container for up to a week, or enjoy them immediately as a delicious snack!

Notes

• Be sure to stir the pecans halfway through the baking process to avoid burning and ensure even coating.
• If you’re making these for a special occasion, consider adding a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top after baking to create a sweet and salty flavor combination.
• For a richer flavor, try substituting the butter with coconut oil.

Cooking Tips:

1. Use fresh pecans: Fresh pecans will provide a better texture and flavor compared to older ones. Make sure your nuts are not stale before baking.
2. Watch the baking time: Pecans can burn quickly, so it’s important to keep an eye on them during the baking process. Start checking around 12 minutes and stir frequently after that.
3. Try different sweeteners: For a healthier alternative, you can substitute honey, maple syrup, or stevia for the granulated sugar.

Conclusion:

Sugar-coated pecans are the ultimate treat for any occasion. Whether you’re snacking, gifting, or looking for a delicious salad topper, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to satisfy your sweet cravings. With just a few ingredients and a short baking time, you’ll have a delicious batch of pecans that everyone will love. So, what are you waiting for? Try making these sugary, crunchy delights today and enjoy the perfect balance of sweetness and nuttiness!