Candied Pecans Recipe
If you’re looking for a delectable treat that combines sweet, crunchy goodness with a hint of warmth and spice, candied pecans are the perfect choice. Whether you’re preparing them as a snack for movie night, a topping for salads, or a thoughtful homemade gift, these candied pecans are sure to impress. Let’s dive into how you can easily create this delightful snack in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
- Pecans: 2 cups, whole
- Brown Sugar: 1/2 cup, packed
- Granulated Sugar: 1/4 cup
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Ground Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
- Egg White: 1 large
- Water: 1 tablespoon
Instructions:
- Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Prepare the Pecans:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the egg white and water until frothy. Add the pecans to the bowl and gently toss until they are evenly coated.
- Coating Mixture:
- In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar, granulated sugar, salt, and ground cinnamon. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.
- Coat the Pecans:
- Transfer the coated pecans from the egg white mixture to the bowl of sugar and spices. Toss the pecans until they are thoroughly coated with the sugar mixture.
- Bake:
- Spread the coated pecans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the pecans are golden brown and the coating is crisp.
- Cooling:
- Once baked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the candied pecans cool completely on the baking sheet. As they cool, the sugar coating will harden to a delicious crunch.
- Serve or Store:
- Once cooled, break apart any clumps of pecans and transfer them to an airtight container or enjoy them right away. Candied pecans can be stored at room temperature for up to two weeks, though they rarely last that long!
Tips for Success:
- Even Coating: Ensure the pecans are evenly coated with the egg white mixture before adding the sugar mixture. This helps create a uniform and crunchy coating.
- Stirring: Stir the pecans halfway through baking to ensure they cook evenly and the sugar coating caramelizes nicely.
- Variations: Feel free to customize your candied pecans with additional spices like nutmeg or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Enjoy Your Candied Pecans!
Whether you’re indulging in these candied pecans on their own or incorporating them into your favorite dishes, they add a delightful sweetness and crunch that’s hard to resist. Experiment with different spices and enjoy the process of creating this irresistible treat in your own kitchen. Happy snacking!