Southern Candied Pecans

Candied pecans 10 2 in white bowl with red rim on wooden board, cinnamon stick beside, overhead shot with pecan bowls blurred background

5 from 10 reviews

Learn how to make the best Candied Pecans with this easy recipe! They're great as an appetizer with drinks and make a wonderful homemade holiday gift. They're also hard to resist for snacking and perfect for adding to salads and desserts.

Prep Time5

Cook Time40

Total Time45

Course: Appetizer, Dessert, Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Servings: cups

Calories: 715kcal

Author: Donya Mullins

Equipment

Mixing Bowl

Ingredients

½ cup white sugar
½ cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (option)
4 cups pecans halves
1 egg white

Instructions

Heat oven to 300 degrees. Prepare a 9x11 baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.
To a large ziplock bag, add white sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and cayenne pepper. Toss to combine. Set aside.
In a medium-size bowl, whisk egg white until frothy. Add in pecans and toss to coat. Pour the pecans into the bag with sugar mixture. Toss until pecans are coated. Place on the prepared baking sheet and bake in oven for 40 minutes. Toss after 20 minutes and continue to cook. Remove from oven and let cool.
Store in an airtight container until ready to serve.

Notes

Recipe Variations:

- Less heat: My family loves the sweetness and heat together, but if yours doesn't, leave out the cayenne pepper.

- Nut options: this recipe will also work for walnuts cashews, hazelnuts, almonds, or peanuts.

- Mix up the spices: use spice mixes like pumpkin spice, Cajun, or Mexican blends.

How To Store: Once completely cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They will last a bit longer, but the flavors start to diminish after the first week.

How To Freeze: Put them in a freezer-safe container and pop them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Allow them to thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Nutrition