Candied Pecans are one of the easiest and most delicious treats you can make at home. Sweet, crunchy, buttery, and lightly spiced, these caramelized nuts are perfect for snacking, gifting, topping salads, or adding to your favorite desserts. With simple ingredients and a quick cooking process, you can make a big batch in under 30 minutes—and your kitchen will smell incredible!

Whether you enjoy them during the holidays, use them as a crunchy salad topping, or pack them into jars as homemade gifts, candied pecans are always a hit.

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⭐ Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & easy – Ready in minutes
• Perfectly crunchy – No soggy nuts here
• Uses simple pantry ingredients
• Great for gifting
• Versatile – works for snacks, salads, desserts, and more

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Ingredients

You only need a handful of basic ingredients:

• 2 cups pecan halves
• 1 cup granulated sugar (or ½ cup sugar + ½ cup brown sugar for richer flavor)
• ½ cup water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon salt

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⭐ How to Make Candied Pecans

Follow these easy step-by-step instructions for perfect results every time.

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Step 1: Prepare a Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup much easier.

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Step 2: Combine Ingredients in a Skillet

In a large skillet or saucepan, add:

• Sugar
• Water
• Cinnamon
• Salt

Stir to combine, then bring to a simmer over medium heat.

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Step 3: Add the Pecans

Add the pecan halves to the pan.

Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring constantly. The sugar mixture will first become syrupy, then start thickening and coating the nuts.

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Step 4: Allow Sugar to Crystallize

Keep stirring—the sugar will start to crystallize and look grainy. This is exactly what you want.

Once the pecans are fully coated and the mixture looks dry, turn off the heat.

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Step 5: Add Vanilla

Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. It will sizzle a bit—this is normal.

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Step 6: Spread Out the Pecans

Spread the candied pecans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

Use a spoon or fork to separate them while still warm to prevent clumping.

Let cool completely. They will harden as they cool.

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⭐ How to Use Candied Pecans

These crunchy nuts are incredibly versatile. Use them for:

Snacking

Eat them right out of the jar—seriously addictive!

Topping Salads

Perfect for spinach salads, pear salads, apple salads, and holiday greens.

Desserts

Sprinkle over ice cream, cheesecake, yogurt, waffles, pancakes, or fruit crisps.

Holiday Gifts

Pack into jars or treat bags for an easy homemade present.

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⭐ Variations

Try these fun twists:

Spiced Candied Pecans

Add:

• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon allspice
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne

Maple Candied Pecans

Replace sugar + water with:

• ½ cup maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon butter

Simmer until thick.

Oven-Baked Version

Coat pecans in:

• 1 egg white
• 1 tablespoon water
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 40 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes.

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⭐ Storage

Room Temperature:

Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

Refrigerator:

Keeps for 3–4 weeks.

Freezer:

Freeze for 2–3 months. Thaw and enjoy without reheating.

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⭐ Tips for Success

• Stir constantly to avoid burning.
• Use fresh pecans for the best flavor.
• Add vanilla after removing from heat (it can burn easily).
• Separate pecans while warm to prevent sticking.

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⭐ Final Thoughts

Candied Pecans are a quick, simple, and crowd-pleasing recipe you’ll find yourself making again and again. With their irresistible sweetness, warm spices, and satisfying crunch, they’re perfect for both everyday snacking and special occasions. Once you see how easy they are to make, you’ll never buy store-bought candied nuts again!

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