Carmelized Pecans
Indulge in the irresistible crunch of perfectly caramelized pecans with this easy, 15-minute recipe! Featuring just a handful of pantry staples like granulated sugar, unsalted butter, and a pinch of salt, these pecans are coated in a glossy, golden caramel glaze that hardens as they cool. A hint of optional cinnamon and vanilla extract adds a warm, aromatic touch, elevating these sweet pecans to gourmet status. Perfect for snacking, sprinkling over salads, or topping desserts, this quick recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you're prepping for a party or treating yourself to a sweet snack, these caramelized pecans will quickly become a household favorite.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups Pecans
- 1 cup Granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
- 0.5 teaspoons Ground cinnamon (optional)
- 0.5 teaspoons Vanilla extract (optional)
- 0.25 teaspoons Salt
- 2 tablespoons Water
Instructions
Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Set aside.
In a large nonstick skillet, combine the granulated sugar, water, unsalted butter, ground cinnamon (if using), vanilla extract (if using), and salt.
Place the skillet over medium heat and stir frequently until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves, creating a smooth mixture. This process should take about 2–3 minutes.
Add the pecans to the skillet and stir to coat them evenly in the caramel mixture.
Continue cooking the pecans over medium heat, stirring frequently, as the sugar mixture thickens and caramelizes. This process will take about 5–7 minutes. Be careful not to let the sugar burn.
Once the pecans are evenly coated in a shiny, caramelized glaze, quickly transfer them to the prepared baking sheet.
Use a spatula to spread the pecans out into a single layer, separating them slightly to prevent clumping as they cool.
Allow the pecans to cool completely on the baking sheet. The caramelized coating will harden as they cool.
Once fully cooled, transfer the caramelized pecans to an airtight container or enjoy immediately as a snack, dessert topping, or salad ingredient.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2357 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 168.1 g | 216% | |
| Saturated Fat | 26.4 g | 132% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 43.2 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 62 mg | 21% | |
| Sodium | 596 mg | 26% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 229.1 g | 83% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 19.9 g | 71% | |
| Total Sugars | 208.2 g | ||
| Protein | 18.6 g | 37% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 161 mg | 12% | |
| Iron | 5.2 mg | 29% | |
| Potassium | 835 mg | 18% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
