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Quick and Easy Stovetop Candied Pecans Recipe

4.6 from 82 reviews

This Quick and Easy Stovetop Candied Pecans recipe features roasted and salted pecans coated in a rich, golden caramelized sugar glaze with a hint of vanilla. Perfect as a sweet snack or topping for salads and desserts, this simple stovetop method yields deliciously crunchy pecans in just minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients

  • 2 cups roasted and salted pecans
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Melt the Sugar: Add ½ cup granulated sugar to a medium-size saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously for about five minutes until the sugar completely melts and turns a light golden brown, being careful not to burn it.
  2. Coat the Pecans: Once the sugar is melted, immediately remove the pan from the heat. Add ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract and 2 cups roasted and salted pecans to the melted sugar. Quickly stir until all nuts are evenly coated with the caramelized sugar.
  3. Cool the Candied Pecans: Spread the coated pecans in an even layer onto a silicone non-stick baking mat or parchment paper. Allow them to cool completely, breaking up any large clusters once hardened.
  4. Store: Transfer the cooled candied pecans to an airtight container. Store at room temperature for up to two weeks to maintain freshness and crunch.

Notes

  • Prepare and measure your pecans and vanilla extract beforehand to add immediately once the sugar melts, as the caramel hardens quickly.
  • This recipe uses pre-roasted and salted pecans. To roast your own, spread nuts on a baking sheet and roast at 350 °F for 8-10 minutes until fragrant. Sprinkle with about ¼ teaspoon salt per 2 cups.
  • Roasting more pecans? Consider my longer roasting method for the best flavor and texture.
  • Freshly harvested pecans contain more moisture and may need additional roasting time.

Keywords: candied pecans, stovetop pecans, quick candied nuts, easy pecan recipe, caramelized nuts