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Easiest Stovetop Cinnamon Sugar Candied Pecans with Salt and Cayenne

A pile of glistening, sugar-coated candied pecans resting on a white square plate near a window.
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Make crunchy, sweet and salty candied pecans on the stovetop quickly. This simple recipe uses common ingredients for perfect homemade candied nuts ideal for snacking or topping salads.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup pecan halves
  • 1 large egg white
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Place the pecan halves in a medium bowl.
  2. In a separate small bowl, whisk the egg white and water together until slightly frothy. Pour this mixture over the pecans and toss gently until all the nuts are lightly coated.
  3. In another small bowl, combine the granulated sugar, cinnamon, salt, and cayenne pepper if you are using it. Sprinkle this dry mixture over the coated pecans and toss again until every pecan is evenly covered.
  4. Heat a large, dry, non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the coated pecans to the hot skillet in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
  5. Stir and toss the pecans constantly for about 5 to 8 minutes. Watch them closely as the sugar melts and begins to caramelize around the nuts.
  6. When the sugar mixture looks melted, bubbly, and coats the pecans evenly, immediately remove the skillet from the heat.
  7. Quickly spread the candied pecans onto a sheet of parchment paper or a silicone baking mat laid on a baking sheet. Separate any large clusters with a fork while they are still warm.
  8. Let the pecans cool completely at room temperature. They will become crunchy as they cool. Store cooled candied pecans in an airtight container.

Notes

  • For a crispier finish, you can bake these instead of using the stovetop. Spread the coated pecans on a baking sheet and bake at 300°F (150°C) for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  • These sweet and salty pecans are excellent sprinkled over green salads or vanilla ice cream.
  • If you want a thicker coating, you can double the sugar and spice mixture, but watch the cooking time carefully to prevent burning.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://carlacooking.com/candied-pecans-easy-stovetop-recipe/