Easy candied pecans on stovetop recipe. (2024)

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Last updated on December 21st, 2023.

To make this candied pecans recipe on stovetop, you only need a skillet and a stovetop.

Yep, this is a simple candied pecans recipe made in a skillet in less than 10 minutes. It is easy, fast, egg-free, gluten-free, the perfect addition to your favorite summer salad, dips, cheese boards, and a great edible gift addition to your holiday basket. These stove top sugared pecans are glossy, shiny, and have a crunchy candy-like bite.

Check out this post to learn how to toast pecans.

Easy candied pecans on stovetop recipe. (1)

A while back, I shared this Candied cashews recipe and since then I learned that there are many ways to upgrade any type of nuts (including Chocolate covered pecans and Honey Roasted Cashews). Especially when it comes to these amazing nuts hence: Candied pecans. In fact, there are as many recipes as there are names, and candied pecans on stovetop is just one. Many of you might know it as caramelized pecans, fried pecans, sautéed pecans, sugar coated nuts, glazed, and even pan-fry nuts.

So, if you ever wondered “what can I do with pecans?”, if you always wanted to know how to make caramelized pecans, or maybe even wondered how to glaze pecans for salads? then here is the ultimate easy recipe for you, all you need is a wide pan or a skillet, a stovetop, and 10 minutes.

Contents hide

1 Why Should You Make this recipe

2 Ingredients

3 Variations:

4 How to make this easy Candied pecans on stovetop recipe?

4.1 What to do with these Stove top sugared pecans?

5 Make Ahead, Store, Freeze (and Thaw)

6 How to package these Candied Pecans?

7 Expert tips

8 FAQ’s:

9 Here are some more recipes I think you might enjoy:

10 Did you try this recipe?

11 Candied pecans on stovetop

11.1 Ingredients

11.2 Instructions

11.3 Recipe Notes

Why Should You Make this recipe

This candied pecans on stove top recipe is a sweet, full of flavor delicious snack with crunchy toppings. You can master this simple recipe in no time and add it to your holiday season or any occasion recipes repertoire.

  • This is a quick stovetop candied pecans recipe, takes 10 minutes to make either a small, medium or a large batch. No need to preheat the oven or set the timer.
  • It calls for simple ingredients. Ingredients You probably already have in hand.
  • This recipe yields sugar coated pecans without eggs, or egg whites and can also be made vegan.
  • Great for making a head. You can make this recipe up to 6 weeks ahead (or 8, I won’t tell) and store it in the freezer. It only gets better.
  • Use any nut you want. This recipe will work with any type of nuts: almonds, walnuts and also hazelnuts.

Ingredients

Easy candied pecans on stovetop recipe. (2)

To make this stove top sugar coated pecans you only need 4 ingredients: nuts, white sugar, dried milk powder (optional), and water. This great snack is as simple as it is delicious.

  • Pecan halves: It is important that they are either roasted or toasted. Raw pecans have a chewy texture, we want a nice brittle texture much like a crunchy candy.
  • Granulated white sugar, most recipes include pecans with brown sugar and butter, but I decided to use regular granulated white sugar because it is the best way to have a beautiful shiny and crunchy coating..
  • Dried milk powder. This is an optional ingredient and it is also my secret ingredient, however if you do not have any or cannot find it in your local market, no worries at all feel free to skip it. I love adding it because it provides extra flavor.
  • Water, the water is the best way to insure a cohesive caramelization of the sugar.

Variations:

It is fun to have a go-to recipe you can personalize and make your own. Here are some simple ways to some scrumptious modifications:

  • To make candied pecans with brown sugar, replace the granulated sugar with the same amount of light brown sugar. Follow the recipe as is adding the nuts when the brown sugar starts to caramelize. Add ½ tsp of cinnamon to the sugar to make cinnamon brown sugar glazed pecans.
  • Butter, while the butter is going to add flavor, please note that as it solidifies as the nuts cool, it will change the nuts’ appearance from shiny glossy to opaque.If you wish to add butter to recipe add 2 TBSP (25 g) of unsalted room temperature butter cut into 1/4” cubes and add it instead of the dried milk powder. No need to stir or wait for the butter to melt, add the nuts immediately.
  • Spice it up, and make Spiced pecans on stovetop, mix your choice of spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, gingerbread spice, pumpkin pie spice or even cayenne to the dried milk powder. If not using the powder add the spices to the skillet along with the nuts.
  • Using a variety of nuts. Anoter option is to use you favorite nuts. Amonds, walnuts, hazelnut or maybe a mix to make candied nuts on stovetop.
  • Vegan. For a vegan option, do not use the dry milk powder and add 2 tbsp of vegan butter cut into ¼” cubes instead of the dried milk. No need to stir or wait for the butter to melt, add the nuts immediately, then stir vigorously.
  • Sweet and salty pan candied pecans, sprinkle ½ tsp sea salt flakes or a pinch of salt (kosher) 10 minutes into the cooling process.

How to make this easy Candied pecans on stovetop recipe?

There are two parts to this recipe. Part one: (the easy and fun part) making the caramel and glazing the nuts. Part two: (the hard part), waiting for the caramelized pecans to cool, recrystallize and become candy. Now let’s get to it.

  1. Place the granulated sugar in the middle of the pan/skillet and pour the water on top.
  2. Allow the sugar to absorb the water, then place the skillet on the stove, medium-high heat.
Easy candied pecans on stovetop recipe. (3)

3. You will notice that as the sugar dissolves it starts to bubble from the sides of the skillet towards the center. If needed, reduce to medium heat.

4. After about 5 minutes the caramelization process begins, and you will notice the sides starting to lightly brown. Stay close by because once this process starts it goes by fast.

Easy candied pecans on stovetop recipe. (4)

5. Once you notice that the sides are lightly golden, add the dry milk powder.

6. Add the nuts, at this point the sugar should be golden and it is time to remove from heat,

7. Vigorously stir the pecans.

Easy candied pecans on stovetop recipe. (5)

8. Spread the caramelized nuts on top of a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer and let cool for about 2-3 hours.

Easy candied pecans on stovetop recipe. (6)

What to do with these Stove top sugared pecans?

These stove top candied pecans are not only delicious and an easy dessert but also versatile and can be a great option for many uses such as:

  • Add ons. Add the pecans to cake fillings, cookies (like these Coffee Cookies), cake batter or even to the frosting, like I did with this Pumpkin Cake with cream cheese frosting. Also, it is a must for any Charcuterie board.
  • Additions. You can process it in the food processor and mix it with your flour when baking a cake.
  • Toppings These pecans are a great topping idea to your Easy fluffy pancakes recipe, or Ginger scones, ice cream or even yogurt.
  • For savory dishes like sweet potato casserole, or roasted carrots hummus, you.
  • Gift it. This is the ultimate homemade food gift idea and below you can find some packaging ideas and recommendations.

Make Ahead, Store, Freeze (and Thaw)

The best part about this easy recipe is that it is great to make ahead and freeze.

  • You can make this recipe for up to 6 weeks ahead. Once the nuts have cooled and crystallized, bag them in a freezable bag, airtight container, or even in small plastic giveaway bags and just place in the freezer.
  • Thaw. When ready to eat (or gift as a holiday treat), remove from the freezer and enjoy immediately or allow it to thaw.
  • In the refrigerator these candied nuts can be stored for up to 4 weeks.
  • At room temperature up to 3 days but note that they can get sticky (much like any candy).

How to package these Candied Pecans?

Whether you decide to use toasted pecans or make roasted pecans with brown sugar, this simple stove top sugared pecans recipe is a great way to show you care. Think about adding it to any care package or holiday gifts. This is a great edible gift to your private home chef and the best homemade gift for a mom.

Here are three ways to pack these Candied pecans on stovetop recipe that will scream “Best candied pecans “

1. A mason jar. Is the traditional and most common way to store nuts. It gives a rustic homemade feel to the nuts. Look at your local market next to the pectin bags.

2. A cellophane bag. you can find it in any hobby store, or on Amazon (affiliate link) tie it with a pretty ribbon for an extra touch. I like to add a not that includes storage instructions, and it is great for storing in the fridge or the freezer.

3. A simple tin container is one of my favorites. I found this one at Michaels in the wedding aisle.

Easy candied pecans on stovetop recipe. (7)

Expert tips

To make this candied pecans recipe in a skillet it is important that you will read the tips and notes. It is a simple way to ensure your success.

  • Do not stir the sugar before it has been caramelized. This is very important. If you do, the sugar will sezzle, and you end up with an unpleasant grainy texture instead of a smooth shiny caramel. If that happens you need to start the oven.
  • Remove from stovetop on time. The way to know it is time to remove these candied pecans on stovetop from heat is when the sugar has turned a golden color. Make sure to stir and remove from heat, the caramel will turn from golden brown to dark brown very fast. The darker the color the bitter the flavor.
  • Save time and divide the full portion into small portions, and freeze. When ready to eat or gift, simply remove from the freezer and enjoy.
  • Carefull. The caramlezied sugar is extremly hot and can easily burn the skin so make sure to use a wooden spoon and not your fingers.

FAQ’s:

How do you keep candied pecans from sticking together?

Much like any other candy that sticks together if not wrapped, the nuts will stick together as well. However, they should be separated very easily without leaving any sticky mess on your fingers.
Try this Candied cashew recipe for a dry non-sticky caramelized pecan nuts recipe.

How long do candied pecans last?

At room temperature, between 2-3 days, in the refrigerator 2-3 weeks, and in the freezer up to 6 weeks.

Can I add butter to the recipe? If so, how much?

Yes, you can add up to 2 tbsp of unsalted butter cut into ¼” cubes right along with the nuts.

My recipe came out sticky, is there any way to get them to harden?

If the pecans are sticky and chewy it means the sugar did not caramelize enough or have been stored in a warm environment. Place them in the freezer.

Why are my candied pecans soft?

Either you used raw nuts, or you added them before the sugar had a chance to fully caramelize.

Why is the sugar all crystallized and grainy looking?

It means that the sugar has crystallized before caramelizing. Avoid stirring it before it changes its color.

Can I double the recipe or cut it in half?

Yes, increase or decrease the ingredients by the same ratio. If doubling it make sure to use a large enough skillet.

Can I bake them for extra crunchiness?

No. They get their crunchy texture from the caramelization process that should be made on the stove.

Can I use a cast iron skillet?


No. Cast iron skillets reach up to 500F, which is too high and will burn the sugar.

The ingredients stick to the skillet, how to clean the dishes after use?

Fill the skillet with warm water, place the spoon in the skillet and allow to soak until the sugar dissolves. Rinse and wash.

Can I add salt for a sweet and salty treat?

Sprinkle ½ tsp of sea salt flakes 10 minutes into the cooling process.


Can I make this recipe on an eclectic stove?

Yes. Either an electric stove or a gas stove would be just fine.

Do I need a candy thermometer to make this easy stovetop candied pecans?

No. This sweet treat recipe does not call for a candy thermometer.

Easy candied pecans on stovetop recipe. (8)

Here are some more recipes I think you might enjoy:

If you love to bake with nuts and can’t get enough of the crunchy goodness try these recipes: Candied Cashew recipe, Coffee Pecans Cookies recipe, Hazelnut cookies, Pistachio Muffinsrecipe

Did you try this recipe?

If you tried this recipe or any other recipe by One sarcastic Baker baking blog, please take a movement to rate and comment at the end of each recipe. Your questions, ideas, and thoughts are priceless, and here at OSB we value them more than butter!

And if you snapped some images, be sure to tag me on Instagram.

Easy candied pecans on stovetop recipe. (9)

5 from 5 votes

Print

Candied pecans on stovetop

Easy and simple candied pecans recipe made in 10 minutes.

CourseAppetizer, Dessert, Snack

CuisineAmerican

Keywordcandied pecans, candied pecans on stovetop, candied pecans recipe, caramelized pecans

Prep Time 3 minutes

Cook Time 6 minutes

Servings 2 cups

Author One Sarcastic Baker

Ingredients

  • 3/4CupGranulated sugar(150 g / 5 oz)
  • 3tbspWater(45 ml)
  • 1TBSPDried milk powder (optional, see notes)(7 g / 0.25 oz)
  • 2CupsToasted pecans(120 g / 4 oz)

Instructions

  1. At the center of a large wide skillet, mount the sugar and drizzle the water on top.

  2. Place the sillet ontop of the stove over medium-high heat.

  3. As the sugar dissolve it will bubble from the sides of the pan towards the center a, then change it color from transperent to golden brown.

  4. Once the sides of the sugar turn to golden brown, sprinkle in the dried milk powder followed by the nuts.

  5. Remove from heat and vigorously stir with a wooden spoon.

  6. Spread the now caramelized pecans ontop of a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer and let cool until crystalize.

Recipe Notes

  • Do not stir the sugar with a spoon before adding the nuts, it will cause the sugar to crystalize and have a gritty unpleasant texture, if needed swirl the pan.
  • Make sure to remove the skillet from the stove as soon as the sugar is golden brown. The darker the sugar the more bitter the flavor.
  • Allow the nuts to fully cool for a crunchy texture.
  • Caramelized sugar is extremely hot when firstly made and during the process, it can burn the skin pretty hard, so make sure not to touch it with your fingers.

Easy candied pecans on stovetop recipe. (10)

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8 Comments on " Candied pecans on stovetop "

  1. Easy candied pecans on stovetop recipe. (11)

    Jere Cassidy says:

    Sat Dec 4 21

    Easy candied pecans on stovetop recipe. (12)
    You have such an easy recipe for these candied pecans and I find your secret ingredient interesting. These pecans will make great Christmas gifts.

    Reply

    1. Easy candied pecans on stovetop recipe. (13)

      Dikla says:

      Sat Dec 4 21

      Thank you so much, Cassidy, I hope you’ll enjoy it.

      Reply

  2. Easy candied pecans on stovetop recipe. (14)

    Stine Mari says:

    Sat Dec 4 21

    Easy candied pecans on stovetop recipe. (15)
    These photos are gorgeous! And the candied pecans are so easy and DELICIOUS! I’m going to try this with almonds as well.

    Reply

  3. Easy candied pecans on stovetop recipe. (16)

    Leslie says:

    Sun Dec 5 21

    Easy candied pecans on stovetop recipe. (17)
    This is an excellent candied pecan recipe! Easy instructions and helpful tips as well!

    Reply

  4. Easy candied pecans on stovetop recipe. (18)

    Logan says:

    Sun Dec 5 21

    Easy candied pecans on stovetop recipe. (19)
    Made this recipe as soon as I saw it and it is so easy to make and even more delicious. Making a double batch next time.

    Reply

  5. Easy candied pecans on stovetop recipe. (20)

    Natalie says:

    Mon Dec 6 21

    Easy candied pecans on stovetop recipe. (21)
    Lovely idea! I always use the oven to make candied nuts. This method is so much easier. I’ll give it a try.

    Reply

  6. Easy candied pecans on stovetop recipe. (22)

    Cindy says:

    Thu Dec 21 23

    Step 5 says to “add the powdered sugar.” Should this actually be “add the milk powder”?

    Reply

    1. Easy candied pecans on stovetop recipe. (23)

      Dikla says:

      Thu Dec 21 23

      yes, you are correct

      Reply

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Hi, I'm Dee!

Hi there! Welcome to One Sarcastic Baker! I'm Dee and I love making fabulous desserts. My goal is to teach you how to make delicious desserts from scratch to impress your guests, friends, and family!

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Easy candied pecans on stovetop recipe. (2024)

FAQs

How do you keep candied pecans from sticking together? ›

After 45 minutes, remove them from the oven and let them rest. You can remove the pecans to a baking sheet to cool faster if you like. Stir them every 10 minutes or so to avoid them clumping together, or you can just break them apart with a spatula or your hands later. Store in an airtight container for up to a week.

Why are my candied pecans so sticky? ›

The sugar needs to bake long enough to caramelize and form a brittle coating on the nuts. How do you fix candied nuts that are too soft and sticky? You can place them back into the oven for 5 to 15 minutes or until they dry out more. They will continue to firm and dry out as they cool.

Should candied pecans be refrigerated? ›

To Store: Candied nuts can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for several weeks. To Freeze: They freeze well in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Why do you soak pecans before roasting? ›

Wet pecans allow the salt to stick easily to the nuts. Plus, soaking nuts helps neutralize enzyme inhibitors, which can harm your digestion, and reduce phytates, which decrease nutrient absorption. Just submerge your nuts in water while the oven is heating up and you'll be good to go.

How to make candied nuts not sticky? ›

Salt: 1/2 teaspoon of fine sea salt makes these taste salty-sweet. If you'd prefer to not taste the salt, reduce to 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Pecans too sticky: If your nuts are still sticky after cooling, heat your oven to 325°F (162°C) and bake for 5 to 10 minutes to help harden the candy coating.

How many cups is one pound of pecans? ›

Measurements and Substitutions

If you happen to have pecans in their shells, remember that 1 pound equals 3 cups shelled, about 4 cups pecan halves, and about 3 3/4 cups chopped nuts. Equivalents to know when using shelled pecans are that 1 pound equals 4 cups and 1 cup of pecan halves equals 3/4 cup chopped.

How many pecans does it take to make 1 lb? ›

For a pound of nutmeat, you will need 2½ pounds of in-shell pecans. In order to help you maintain the highest quality pecan meats, we have developed the following guide to help you understand the best way to handle and store your pecans.

Why are my pecans mushy? ›

Humidity above these values can cause kernel molding and pecan texture deterioration (pecans become soft and rubber-like), whereas lower humidities will cause excessive drying. In-shell pecan kernels will darken under high humidity as a result of the tannic acid being dissolved from the shell lining.

Do candied pecans go bad? ›

If you don't plan on eating your candied pecans right away, you may want to consider storing them in the refrigerator or freezer. Refrigeration can keep the pecans fresh for up to three months, while freezing can extend their shelf life for up to six months.

Can dogs have pecans? ›

These nuts are toxic for dogs. Eating them can result in pets becoming sick and needing immediate veterinary care. “The reason pecans are considered toxic is that they contain a compound called juglone, also found in walnuts, that is harmful to dogs,” advises Dr.

How long do pecans last in a ziplock bag? ›

Sealed plastic bags are best for storing pecans in the freezer. In-shell pecans can be stored in a cool, dry place for 6 to 12 months. They can be refrigerated up to 18 months and frozen for about three years.

Are pecans good for you? ›

Raw pecans pack a 1-2-3 punch of protein, healthy fats, and fiber that can help keep you energized and satisfied. Pecans are a good source of calcium, magnesium, and potassium, which help lower blood pressure. Most of the fat found in pecans is a healthy type called monounsaturated fat.

How do you get the bitterness out of pecans? ›

Some of the tannin and all of the corky material can be removed by washing the kernels before cooking. To "sweeten" the pecan meats (kernels), simply put the pecan kernels in a bowl and fill with lukewarm water. Stir and tumble the meats in the water for several minutes and you will see the discoloration in the water.

Why do people boil pecans? ›

Boiling pecans before cracking them can actually help prevent the shell from shattering. Here's how to boil them to loosen the shell but not cook the meat: ● Bring a large pot of water to a gentle boil ● Add the pecans and let cook for 10-15 minutes ● Drain and let cool ● Get to cracking!

How to activate pecans? ›

How to activate your nuts…
  1. Dissolve salt in enough water to cover the amount of nuts/seeds you are activating.
  2. In a large bowl place your nut or seed of choice.
  3. Cover with the salt water solution.
  4. Soak for the required number of hours.
  5. Strain and rinse the nuts.
  6. Spread over a dehydrator rack, or baking tray.
May 12, 2020

What causes stick tights on pecans? ›

Such "stick? tights" are caused by drought and heat stress in September and October. Pecans require water right up until the time of shuck split to reduce this problem. Nuts sprouting in the shuck before harvest (vivipary) are also reduced by late season water and/or stress reduction.

How long to soak pecans before eating? ›

Preparation:
  1. Place the pecans and salt in a large glass or stainless steel bowl along with 8 cups of water. The pecans will swell during the soaking process, so you want enough water to keep them covered.
  2. Leave them on the counter to soak for 4-8 hours. ...
  3. After they are done soaking, drain and rinse in a colander.

How long will candied nuts stay fresh? ›

How long will candied pecans keep? They will keep for up to two weeks in an airtight container at room temperature, at least three weeks in the refrigerator, or up to two months in the freezer. No matter where you store them, keep in a tightly sealed, airtight container.

Can you vacuum seal candied pecans? ›

Make These Candied Pecans in Advance

Storing: For best taste and freshness, store these tasty snacks in an airtight container, such as a glass mason jar or a vacuum-sealed plastic container. They will keep for 2-3 weeks at room temperature.

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