Candied Pecan Halves
Sweet and crunchy candied pecan halves coated in a rich sugar glaze, perfect for snacking, baking, or garnishing desserts, appealing to nuts lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring sugar and sour cream to a boil.
- Boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat.
- Stir in vanilla.
- Add pecan halves and stir until they are coated with the sugar mixture.
- When the coating begins to set, spread the candied pecans on a cookie sheet to cool.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the sugar mixture while boiling. If you don’t have sour cream, Greek yogurt can be a good substitute. Make sure to stir constantly to prevent the sugar from burning, and use a heavy-bottomed pot for even heat distribution.
Serving Suggestions
These candied pecan halves are perfect as a snack on their own or as a topping for salads, particularly those featuring fruits and blue cheese. They also pair beautifully with Exquisite Fruit Topping for a delightful dessert. Try them alongside a cheese platter for an elegant touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover candied pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If they lose their crunch, you can re-crisp them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Candied Pecan Halves contains roughly 128 calories, with 4g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of calcium (12% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 657mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the type of nut used.
How do I know when the sugar mixture is ready?
The sugar mixture should be boiling and bubbling vigorously for one minute while you stir constantly. It will thicken slightly, and when you remove it from heat, it should coat the back of a spoon.
Is it possible to make these in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the candied pecans ahead of time and store them as mentioned. They make a great topping for desserts or a sweet addition to breakfast dishes even days later.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).