Candied Pecans

Indulge in the sweet crunch of homemade candied pecans. This simple recipe combines the rich flavor of pecans with a delicate caramelized coating, creating a delightful snack or topping for salads and desserts.

Tasting Notes:

Expect a satisfying crunch with a perfect balance of sweetness. The pecans are toasted to perfection, coated in a thin layer of caramelized sugar, offering a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups pecan halves
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

Kitchen Equipment:

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Medium saucepan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Mixing bowl

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, water, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves.
3. Once the sugar has dissolved, add the pecans to the saucepan. Stir the pecans until they are evenly coated with the sugar mixture.
4. Spread the coated pecans onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake the pecans in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until they are fragrant and lightly toasted. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
6. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the pecans cool completely on the pan.
7. Once cooled, break apart any clumps of pecans and store them in an airtight container at room temperature.

Pro Tips:

• Be attentive while cooking the sugar mixture to prevent it from burning.
• Stir the pecans frequently while they are cooking to ensure they are evenly coated.
• Customize the flavor by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or a sprinkle of sea salt for a sweet and salty combination.

Variations:

• Substitute pecans with almonds or walnuts for a different twist.
• Experiment with different spices such as nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice for unique flavor profiles.
• Add a tablespoon of maple syrup for extra sweetness and depth of flavor.

FAQs: