Make sweet, crunchy candied pecans on the stovetop using simple ingredients like cinnamon and sugar. This recipe is quick and perfect for snacking, topping salads, or holiday gifts.
Author:rosasterling
Prep Time:5 min
Cook Time:5 min
Total Time:10 min
Yield:1 cup1x
Category:Snack
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 cup pecan halves
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 pinch salt
1 teaspoon water
1/2 teaspoon butter
Instructions
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Set aside.
In a medium, non-stick skillet, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir the dry ingredients together.
Add the water and butter to the skillet. Place the skillet over medium heat.
Stir the mixture constantly until the sugar dissolves and begins to bubble. This takes about 2 minutes.
Add the pecan halves to the bubbling sugar mixture. Stir quickly and continuously to coat all the pecans evenly.
Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sugar mixture thickens and coats the nuts. Do not let the sugar burn.
Immediately pour the coated pecans onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread them into a single layer using a spatula.
Let the candied pecans cool completely, about 15 minutes. They will harden as they cool.
Once cool, break apart any clusters before serving or storing.
Notes
For a slightly spicy kick, add a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper with the cinnamon.
You can substitute butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
Store your homemade candied pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.