Sweet & Spicy Maple Candied Pecans: Your Ultimate Wholesome Snack Recipe

Craving a snack that hits all the right notes – sweet, savory, crunchy, and satisfyingly healthy? Look no further than this incredible **maple sweetened candied pecans recipe**! Perfect for any occasion, these irresistible nuts are crafted with just a handful of simple, real food ingredients and come together in about 15 minutes. With a delightful balance of sweetness from pure maple syrup and a gentle warmth from carefully selected spices, they offer a truly gourmet experience without any fuss. Whether you need a quick energy boost on the go, a delectable crunch for your favorite salad, an impressive appetizer for your next gathering, or a thoughtful homemade gift, these candied pecans are an absolute winner. Beyond their incredible taste, they’re packed with beneficial fiber and healthy fats, making them a sweet treat you can genuinely feel good about indulging in.

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Are you searching for that one versatile, incredibly easy recipe that you’ll return to again and again? A recipe so straightforward it takes merely 5 minutes to prep and about 10 minutes to cook, yet delivers an addictive flavor that makes it hard to stop at just one handful? Prepare to meet your new favorite!

Introducing these phenomenal candied pecans, uniquely sweetened with pure maple syrup. They are a delightful cousin to my popular spiced nuts, offering a slightly sweeter, glazed coating along with the option to add a subtle kick of spice. This recipe masterfully combines the natural goodness of nuts with a touch of sweetness, resulting in a snack that feels indulgent yet remains wholesome.

Are pecans coated with maple syrup truly healthy? This is a question many health-conscious snackers ponder. The good news is, yes! Pecans themselves are nutritional powerhouses, brimming with essential nutrients. They are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness, making them an ideal afternoon snack that keeps hunger at bay far longer than less nutritious options like crackers. Furthermore, pecans are rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats – the “good” fats that support heart health. They also provide a generous supply of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin E, zinc, and magnesium. While the maple syrup adds a touch of decadence, this recipe is carefully designed to use significantly less sugar than most traditional glazed nut recipes. We’re talking only 3 tablespoons of pure maple syrup for a generous 2.5 cups of pecans, a stark contrast to the sugar-laden alternatives commonly found. This balance ensures you get that satisfying sweet glaze without excessive added sugars, truly making them a guilt-free indulgence.

This simple approach, focusing on just 3 core ingredients plus a few optional spices, is another compelling reason to fall in love with this recipe. It’s all about harnessing the natural goodness and enhancing it with minimal, high-quality additions.

I must issue a friendly warning: these maple candied pecans are famously addictive. You might find yourself reaching for ‘just one more’ until the bowl is empty! However, as with all real, honest foods made with the purest ingredients, enjoyment in moderation is key. My personal strategy for managing their irresistible appeal? “Out of sight, out of mind.” As soon as they’ve completely cooled, transfer them into an airtight container, such as a beautiful mason jar, and tuck them away in a cupboard. This simple step helps control impulsive snacking.

Alternatively, consider making a large batch and sharing most of them! They make fantastic edible gifts, and you’ll be guaranteed to earn immense appreciation. Keep a small portion for your personal snacking pleasure and as a delightful addition to your salads – trust me, your friends and family will thank you.

Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Candied Pecans

Crafting these delectable maple candied pecans requires only a few high-quality, real food ingredients. Each plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance of crunch, sweetness, and spice. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why:

• Pecan Halves: While this recipe shines with beautiful pecan halves, it’s incredibly versatile. If you don’t have pecans on hand or prefer a different nut, walnuts are an excellent substitute and yield similarly delicious results. Ensure your nuts are raw and unsalted for best control over the final flavor profile.
• Pure Maple Syrup: This is the star sweetener, providing a rich, natural caramel-like flavor that refined sugar simply can’t match. Always opt for 100% pure maple syrup (Grade A Dark, Robust Taste is often preferred for baking) – avoid artificial syrups. While I haven’t personally tried this recipe with honey, it would likely work, though it would impart a distinctly different flavor profile. Maple syrup offers a unique depth that pairs beautifully with pecans and spices.
• Olive Oil: A small amount of oil is essential for helping the syrup coat the nuts evenly and for ensuring a crisp, non-sticky finish. A good quality olive oil works wonderfully and adds a subtle richness. Alternatively, avocado oil is another excellent choice due to its high smoke point and neutral flavor. The key is to use a mild-flavored oil that won’t overpower the delicate pecan and maple notes.
• Spices: The foundation includes classic sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, which enhance all the other flavors. For those who enjoy a little warmth and a savory-sweet kick, optional chili powder seasoning is highly recommended. You can adjust the amount to your preference or even add a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra fiery twist, as suggested by some readers!

Crafting Your Maple Candied Pecans: A Simple Guide

Get ready to create a truly delicious snack with minimal effort. This process is so straightforward, you’ll wonder why you haven’t made these sooner. Just follow these easy steps:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. In a medium-sized bowl, combine all the ingredients. Stir thoroughly until every pecan half is beautifully and evenly coated with the maple and spice mixture. This ensures consistent flavor and caramelization.

Step 2: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking. Spread the coated nuts in a single, even layer across the sheet. Bake for 5 minutes, then give them a good stir to ensure even cooking and browning. Return to the oven and bake for another 5-8 minutes. PRO TIP: Keep a very close eye on them during the last 2 minutes of baking to prevent burning, as they can go from perfectly golden to overdone very quickly.

IMPORTANT TIP: Accurate measurement of the oil is crucial. Exceeding the specified amount in the recipe can result in nuts that remain sticky even after cooling. Measure carefully to ensure that perfect, non-sticky glaze.

Step 3: Once removed from the oven, allow the candied pecans to cool completely on the baking pan. As they cool, the glaze will harden. After they are fully cooled, simply break them apart with your hands. They should snap apart easily, revealing their delightful crunch.

Rest assured, I’ve meticulously refined these proportions to ensure your pecans achieve a perfectly non-sticky finish once cooled for about 30 minutes to an hour on the pan. They will be lightly glazed, wonderfully spiced, and perfectly crisp – a truly ideal combination for snacking and sharing.

Versatile Ways to Enjoy Your Candied Pecans

These maple candied pecans are so much more than just a snack! Their delightful crunch and sweet-savory flavor profile make them incredibly versatile for various culinary applications. Here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy them:

• On-the-Go Snack: Perfectly portioned for a healthy, satisfying pick-me-up.
• Salad Topping: Add a gourmet touch and irresistible crunch to any salad. They particularly shine in salads with fruits, cheeses, or a tangy vinaigrette. Try them with these beloved recipes:
  • Kale Cranberry Salad Recipe with Feta & Candied Pecans
  • Shaved Cabbage Salad with Candied Pecans & Creamy Feta Vinaigrette
• Party Appetizer: Serve them in a beautiful bowl at your next gathering. They are always the first to disappear!
• Homemade Gift: Package them in charming mason jars with a festive ribbon for a thoughtful, personal present.
• Charcuterie Boards: Elevate your cheese and meat platters with their sweet crunch.
• Dessert Topping: Crush them lightly and sprinkle over ice cream, yogurt, oatmeal, or even baked goods like muffins and cakes for added texture and flavor.
• Breakfast Boost: A fantastic addition to granola, cereal, or smoothie bowls.

Their versatility makes them a staple in any real food kitchen.

I genuinely hope you find as much joy in making and savoring this maple candied pecans recipe as I do. If you try it, please consider leaving a recipe rating and sharing your experience in the comments below! Your feedback helps others discover and enjoy this wonderful snack.

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4.50 from 18 votes

Maple Sweetened & Perfectly Spiced Candied Pecans

A healthy and irresistible candied pecans recipe made with just three simple, real food ingredients, ready in about 15 minutes. Sweetened with pure maple syrup and perfectly spiced, they’re ideal for snacking, entertaining, topping salads, or thoughtful homemade gifts!

Prep Time5 minutes mins

Cook Time10 minutes mins

Total Time15 minutes mins

Yield: 2 -1/2 cups

Author: Jami Boys

Equipment

• Medium Mixing Bowl and wooden spoon
• Parchment Paper OR
• Silicone liner
• Large Rimmed Baking Sheet

Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups raw pecan halves
• 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon olive oil* (or avocado oil)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 ½ teaspoons chili powder, optional (to make spicier, add 1/8 tsp. cayenne)

Instructions

• Heat oven to 350 degrees. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment or silicone liner.
• Toss all the ingredients in a large bowl, mixing well to coat all the nuts evenly.
• Lay coated pecans in a single layer on prepared pan.
• Bake 5 minutes, stir nuts well and bake for another 5-8 minutes until nuts are browned and caramelized (watch closely the last few minutes to avoid burning).
• Remove from oven and let cool completely on pan.**
• Break apart and store in an airtight container for up to a month.

Notes

*Going over this amount may cause the nuts to remain sticky after cooling, so measure carefully.

**Do not let them sit out for longer than necessary -they have become sticky for me in the past from the humidity when I forgot about them cooling (as in hours). They will stay nice and glazed if you place them in a container as soon as they are completely cooled.

Nutrition

Serving: 1/4 cup | Calories: 217kcal | Carbohydrates: 6.3g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 21g | Saturated Fat: 1.5g | Cholesterol: 0mg | Sodium: 151mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 4.7g

Did you make this recipe?Mention @anoregoncottage or tag #anoregoncottage!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Got questions about making or storing these delicious maple candied pecans? Here are answers to some common inquiries:

• Can I use different types of nuts? Absolutely! While pecans are fantastic, this recipe works equally well with walnuts, almonds, or even a mix of your favorite nuts. Adjust baking time slightly if using smaller or denser nuts.
• Can I make these spicier? Yes! The recipe includes an optional chili powder for a mild kick. For a spicier version, increase the chili powder to 2 teaspoons, or add 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper along with the chili powder.
• How do I prevent the nuts from sticking? The key is precise oil measurement and proper cooling. Ensure you use exactly 1 tablespoon of oil. Also, allow the nuts to cool completely in a single layer on the baking sheet before breaking them apart and storing them in an airtight container immediately. Humidity can cause stickiness if left exposed for too long.
• What’s the best way to store candied pecans? Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a month. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 months or freeze them for up to 6 months. Just be sure they are completely cooled before storing.
• Are these candied pecans gluten-free and vegan? Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it uses whole nuts and spices. It is also vegan, as maple syrup is a plant-based sweetener and olive or avocado oil are plant-based oils.
• Can I make a larger batch? You can easily double or triple the recipe. However, ensure you use multiple large baking sheets so the nuts can spread in a single layer. Overcrowding the pan will steam the nuts instead of allowing them to caramelize and crisp properly.

Explore More Easy & Healthy Snack Ideas

If you loved these maple candied pecans, you’re sure to enjoy these other wholesome and delicious snack recipes:

• Easy & Healthy Spiced Nuts (No Sweeteners) – perfect for those who prefer a purely savory snack.
• Chocolate Chip Almond Granola Bites + Variations – bite-sized goodness for a quick energy boost.
• Ultimate No-Bake Chewy Granola Bars – a fantastic make-ahead option for busy weeks.

This recipe was originally published in December 2015 and has been thoughtfully updated with enhanced content, clearer instructions, and additional tips to improve your cooking experience.

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