Perfect Pecans
Sweet and crunchy pecans coated with cinnamon, sugar, and optional liqueur, perfect for snacking or gift-giving, appealing to nut lovers and those seeking a flavorful treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat egg white and water until frothy.
- Add nuts and toss until coated.
- Add all other ingredients and pour into a greased (use margarine) cookie sheet.
- Bake for 1 hour at 250°F (120°C).
- Toss every 15 minutes during baking time.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider using toasted pecans or experimenting with different spices like nutmeg or cayenne for a kick. If you want a lower sugar version, try using a sugar substitute or reducing the sugar amount. You can also substitute egg whites with aquafaba for a vegan version. Just make sure to beat it until frothy like with egg whites.
Serving Suggestions
These sweet and crunchy pecans make a delightful snack on their own or as a topping for salads, yogurt, or oatmeal. They pair beautifully with a cheese platter or can be used as a garnish for desserts like vanilla ice cream. Consider serving them alongside Vermont Green Tomato Pie for a unique meal experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a month or freeze for up to three months. If you want to re-crisp them, bake at 300°F for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Perfect Pecans contains roughly 503 calories, with 8g protein, 99g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 825mg per serving (36% 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 easily substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or cashews. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the nut used, so check for doneness as you bake.
Is it necessary to use Kahlua or Grand Marnier?
The Kahlua or Grand Marnier adds a nice depth of flavor, but it's optional. You can replace it with vanilla extract or simply omit it if you prefer a non-alcoholic version.
How can I make these pecans spicier?
To add a bit of heat, consider mixing in cayenne pepper or chili powder with the cinnamon and sugar. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste preference for the perfect balance of sweet and spicy.
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).