Pecan Yummies
Pecan Yummies are sweet, crunchy candies with a cinnamon-sugar coating, perfect for nut lovers and a delightful treat for holidays or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, water, and cinnamon; bring to a boil and cook until the mixture forms a soft ball in cold water.
- Add a dash of salt and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to the syrup.
- Pour the hot syrup over the pecans and stir until cooled and coated.
- Spread the mixture on wax paper and break into pieces once cooled.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider toasting the pecans before adding them to the syrup. If you prefer a sweeter treat, you can increase the sugar by a few tablespoons. For a spice twist, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger along with the cinnamon. Be sure to test the syrup's consistency by dropping a small amount into cold water; it should form a soft ball.
Serving Suggestions
These Pecan Yummies make a delightful snack on their own but also pair beautifully with desserts like Ambrosia Fruit Cups or can be served alongside coffee for a sweet treat. They are perfect for party platters or as a topping for yogurt and granola, enhancing your Granola Snack experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Pecan Yummies 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 crispness. To reheat, simply place them in a low oven for a few minutes to restore their crunch without melting the coating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pecan Yummies contains roughly 315 calories, with 3g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is a good source of calcium (10% 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. Each type of nut will impart a different flavor and texture to the final product. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if you're using larger or harder nuts.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make Pecan Yummies vegan, simply omit the dash of salt and ensure your vanilla extract is alcohol-free. The rest of the ingredients are already vegan-friendly, so it’s an easy adaptation for those following vegan recipes.
What can I do if my syrup doesn't reach the soft ball stage?
If your syrup isn't reaching the soft ball stage, it may need more cooking time to concentrate the sugars. Continue to boil the mixture, checking frequently. If it becomes too thick, you can add a small amount of water to thin it out before pouring it over the pecans.
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).