Candy Pecans
Sweet and crunchy candy pecans coated with brown sugar and vanilla, perfect for snacking or garnishing desserts, appealing to those who love nutty, caramelized treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat egg white until a soft peak forms.
- Gradually mix in brown sugar and vanilla flavoring.
- Fold in pecan halves.
- Grease cookie sheet well.
- Place pecan halves 1/2-inch apart on the cookie sheet.
- Bake at 250°F for about 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra crunch, toast the pecans lightly before coating them with the egg mixture. If you want a different flavor profile, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg. You can substitute the vanilla flavoring with almond extract for a unique twist. Ensure the egg white is at room temperature for better volume when beating to soft peaks.
Serving Suggestions
These candy pecans are perfect as a snack on their own or can be used as a topping for salads or desserts. They pair beautifully with a Whipped Strawberry Drink or can be added to a cheese platter alongside savory dips like Che-Broom Dip. Consider using them to elevate your favorite American recipes by adding a sweet crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover candy pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you live in a humid climate, consider refrigerating them to maintain their crunchiness. Reheat them briefly in the oven at a low temperature to restore their crispiness before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Candy Pecans contains roughly 909 calories, with 12g protein, 193g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (34% of the Daily Value), protein (25% of the Daily Value), and potassium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 518mg per serving (23% 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, almonds, or cashews. Keep in mind that the baking time may vary slightly depending on the nut used, so watch them closely to prevent overcooking.
What can I do if my pecans stick to the cookie sheet?
If your pecans stick, make sure to grease the cookie sheet thoroughly before baking. You can also line the sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy removal. Let them cool completely before trying to lift them off.
How can I make these candy pecans less sweet?
To reduce the sweetness, you can decrease the amount of brown sugar used in the recipe or add a pinch of sea salt to balance the flavors. This will create a more savory profile without compromising the deliciousness.
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).