Sour Cream Sugared Pecans
Sweet and creamy sugared pecans coated in a caramel-like glaze, offering rich vanilla and salty accents. Perfect for snacking or garnishing desserts, appealing to sweet and savory lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a heavy medium saucepan, mix sour cream, sugar, and salt. Heat to 225° on a candy thermometer, stirring constantly. Remove from heat.
- Add vanilla and pecan halves to the saucepan.
- Stir rapidly until the mixture coats and sugars the nuts.
- Spread the coated nuts on a tray, separate them, and let cool.
- Store in a tightly covered container.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure the pecans are evenly coated, use fresh sour cream for the best flavor and consistency. If you're out of pecans, walnuts or almonds can be good substitutes. For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture. Stirring constantly is key to prevent the sugar from burning, so make sure to keep a close eye while heating.
Serving Suggestions
These sour cream sugared pecans make a delightful snack on their own or can be served alongside a cheese platter. They pair beautifully with a sweet dessert like Lemon Curd Tart Filling or a refreshing salad. Consider using them as a topping for ice cream or yogurt for added crunch and sweetness. They can also be a fantastic addition to holiday gift baskets.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled sugared pecans in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to two weeks. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them in a freezer-safe bag, which can extend their shelf life for up to three months. To enjoy again, thaw at room temperature and they're ready to eat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sour Cream Sugared Pecans contains roughly 112 calories, with 3g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1795mg per serving (78% 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 for this recipe?
Yes, you can certainly substitute pecans with other nuts like walnuts or almonds. Each nut will impart a different flavor and texture to the finished product. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if necessary, as different nuts may cook at different rates.
What should I do if my sugar mixture hardens?
If your sugar mixture hardens before coating the nuts, gently reheat it on low heat while stirring. Adding a little extra sour cream can help to bring it back to a pourable consistency. Be cautious not to overheat, as this may cause the sugar to burn.
How can I make these pecans spicier?
To add a spicy kick to your sugared pecans, consider incorporating cayenne pepper or chili powder into the sugar mixture. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste. This will create a sweet-and-spicy contrast that is sure to impress your guests.
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).