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Bowl of delicious homemade candied pecans ready to be served

Candied Pecans

These glossy, sweet candied pecans are easy to make in just 30 minutes — perfect for snacking, salads, or holiday gifts.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Candied Pecans
  • 1 cup pecan halves (fresh, unsalted)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar Brown sugar can be used for deeper flavor.
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or almond extract) Use almond extract for a variation.
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon fine salt

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Combine sugar, water, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt in a medium saucepan and give it a quick stir.
  2. Heat on medium until the mixture comes to a boil, stirring to ensure that the sugar fully dissolves.
  3. Add the pecan halves and stir immediately so each nut gets coated in syrup.
  4. Maintain medium heat and cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the syrup has reduced and is glossy.
  5. Remove the pan from heat and spread the pecans in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool.
  6. Let cool completely (about 20–30 minutes), then break apart any clusters and serve.

Notes

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Use walnuts or cashews if you're out of pecans, but adjust the cooking time for cashews. For nut-free options, try sunflower seeds.