Orange Candied Pecans
Sweet and crunchy orange candied pecans with a citrus twist, perfect for snacking, toppings, or gift-giving, appealing to both nut lovers and dessert enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sugar with orange juice and water in a saucepan.
- Cook over low heat until reaching hard ball stage.
- Stir in pecans and grated orange rind to coat evenly.
- Spread the coated pecans on wax paper to cool.
- Store in an airtight container.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the sugar mixture before cooking. If you want a healthier option, you can substitute some of the sugar with maple syrup or honey, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Ensure the pecans are fresh for the best taste, and stir them continuously to prevent burning while coating.
Serving Suggestions
These orange candied pecans make a delightful snack on their own or can be used as a topping for salads, such as Parkway Salad Dressing, or desserts. They pair beautifully with cheese boards, especially soft cheeses like Brie or goat cheese. For a festive touch, serve them alongside holiday treats or as an addition to gift baskets.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store the orange candied pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them, which can extend their freshness. To refresh the texture, simply spread them out on a baking sheet and warm them in a low oven for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange Candied Pecans contains roughly 118 calories, with 3g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (52% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 497mg per serving (22% 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. Just be aware that different nuts may have varying cooking times and flavors, so monitor them closely while cooking to achieve the desired candied texture.
How can I make these pecans spicier?
To add a spicy kick, you can sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder into the sugar mixture while cooking. This contrast of sweet and spicy can elevate the flavor profile and make them even more interesting.
What can I do if the pecans are not coating well?
If the pecans are not coating properly, ensure that the sugar mixture reaches the hard ball stage before adding them. If they still don’t coat well, try adding a tablespoon of butter to the mixture, which can help with adhesion and enhance the overall flavor.
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).