Pecan Holiday Treat
A delightful holiday treat featuring roasted pecans coated in a sugary vanilla glaze and powdered sugar, resulting in a crunchy, sweet snack perfect for festive gatherings. Its rich flavor and crispy texture make it a favorite among nut lovers and those seeking a festive, homemade snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Melt butter in a 12 x 15-inch pan in the oven. Add nuts and dredge in melted butter.
- In a separate bowl, combine granulated sugar, salt, vanilla, and egg whites.
- Dribble the mixture over the nuts and mix so all nuts are coated.
- Bake in the oven for 40 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to evenly coat the nuts.
- Remove from oven.
- Put powdered sugar in a Ziploc bag or large bowl with a lid, then add nuts and shake to cover all the nuts.
- Remove and spread on a cookie sheet to cool.
Tips & Substitutions
For a delightful twist, try using walnuts instead of pecans. Ensure the butter is fully melted before adding the nuts to achieve an even coating. If you're looking for added flavor, consider mixing in a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg with the powdered sugar. This recipe can also be easily halved if you're looking for a smaller batch, making it perfect for gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
These pecan treats make a fantastic snack on their own but can be paired with coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat. They also pair beautifully with Grandma Annie'S Cream Pie for a festive dessert table. Consider serving them alongside other holiday sweets for a delightful variety.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pecan holiday treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them in a sealed bag, where they can last for up to three months. To enjoy them again, simply let them thaw at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pecan Holiday Treat contains roughly 592 calories, with 3g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1773mg per serving (77% 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 a different type of nut in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with other nuts like almonds or cashews. Just keep in mind that different nuts may alter the flavor and texture slightly, but they will still be delicious.
How do I know when the nuts are done baking?
The nuts are done when they are golden brown and fragrant, typically after about 40 minutes. Be sure to stir every 10 minutes for even coating and roasting.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer a less sweet treat, you can reduce the amount of granulated sugar used or replace some of the powdered sugar with a sugar alternative. Just be cautious with substitutions, as they may affect texture.
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).