Description
Enjoy a deliciously sweet and crunchy treat with this recipe for candied pecans. Perfect for snacking, topping salads, or enhancing desserts, these pecans are coated in a simple sugar syrup infused with vanilla and a touch of salt to balance the sweetness. Ready in just 20 minutes, this easy stovetop recipe yields a comforting and irresistible snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 1 cup pecan halves
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Combine ingredients: In a saucepan, combine 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup water, and 1/4 teaspoon salt over medium heat.
- Dissolve sugar: Stir the mixture continuously until the sugar fully dissolves and a syrup forms.
- Add pecans and vanilla: Add 1 cup pecan halves and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract to the syrup.
- Cook pecans: Continue cooking for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently to ensure the pecans are evenly coated and the syrup thickens and caramelizes around the nuts.
- Spread and cool: Remove from heat and quickly spread the candied pecans onto a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer.
- Cool completely: Allow the pecans to cool thoroughly to achieve a crisp, crunchy texture before serving or storing.
Notes
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Stir frequently to avoid burning the sugar syrup.
- Store cooled candied pecans in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
- For a spiced variation, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper while cooking.
- Make sure to spread pecans individually so they cool separately and don’t clump together.
