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Easy Stovetop Candied Pecans Recipe

A white bowl filled with shiny, dark brown candied pecans, glistening under bright light.

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Make sweet, crunchy candied pecans on the stovetop in minutes. This simple recipe uses brown sugar and cinnamon for a perfect snack or salad topper.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup pecan halves
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1 teaspoon butter

Instructions

  1. Combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a medium non-stick skillet. Stir the dry ingredients together.
  2. Add the water and butter to the skillet. Place the skillet over medium heat.
  3. Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to bubble, about 2 minutes.
  4. Add the pecan halves to the skillet. Stir continuously to coat the pecans evenly with the sugar mixture.
  5. Continue stirring until the liquid evaporates and the sugar crystallizes around the pecans, about 3 to 5 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning.
  6. Immediately transfer the coated pecans onto a sheet of parchment paper or a silicone baking mat laid on a counter or baking sheet.
  7. Spread the pecans into a single layer quickly. Let them cool completely, about 15 minutes, until they are hard and crunchy.
  8. Break apart any clusters before serving or storing.

Notes

  • For extra crunch, spread the pecans on a baking sheet and let them cool completely before separating.
  • You can substitute butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
  • These are excellent as a homemade holiday gift when packaged in small jars.

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