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The Easiest Homemade Candied Pecans (Oven or Stovetop Method)

Close-up of shiny, caramelized candied pecans piled on a white plate, showcasing the sugary coating.
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Make crunchy, sweet, and buttery candied pecans using a simple cinnamon-sugar coating. This recipe works well for snacking, holiday gifts, or as a topping for salads and desserts.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup pecan halves
  • 1 large egg white
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) if using the oven method, or prepare a large, non-stick skillet for the stovetop method. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper if baking.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk the egg white and water together until slightly frothy.
  3. Add the pecans to the egg white mixture and toss until the nuts are evenly coated.
  4. In a separate small bowl, mix the sugar, cinnamon, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using).
  5. Add the sugar mixture to the coated pecans and toss well until every pecan is covered with the dry coating.
  6. Oven Method: Spread the coated pecans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to prevent clumping and burning.
  7. Stovetop Method: Place the coated pecans in the dry skillet over medium heat. Stir constantly for 8 to 12 minutes until the sugar melts, caramelizes slightly, and coats the nuts. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
  8. Remove the pecans from the heat immediately. Spread them out onto a clean piece of parchment paper or a cool plate to cool completely. Do not let them touch while cooling, or they will stick together.
  9. Once cool, break apart any clusters. Store in an airtight container.

Notes

  • For edible gifts, package cooled pecans in small cellophane bags tied with ribbon.
  • Use these crunchy pecans as a topping for green salads or vanilla ice cream.
  • If you prefer a different nut, substitute pecans with almonds or walnuts; adjust baking time slightly if needed.
  • Store your homemade pecan candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingbyfelix.com/candied-pecans-recipe/