Dessert

Easy Candied Pecans Recipe

ByElla Hart December 8, 2025December 8, 2025

Introduction

Easy Candied Pecans are a sweet and crunchy treat perfect for snacking, topping salads, or adding to desserts. With simple ingredients and two cooking methods, this recipe is accessible for any home cook looking to make a delicious homemade snack.

A clear glass jar filled with several layers of spiced pecans, each pecan covered in a rough, crumbly coating of sugar and spice, giving a textured brown and tan look. The jar is open with the metal clasp hanging down, sitting on a white marbled surface with faint pink patterned paper underneath. In the background, some clear decorative crystals add a soft sparkle to the scene. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup light brown sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon salt
16 ounces unsalted pecan halves (about 4 cups)
1 egg white
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon water
1 cup granulated sugar (for crockpot method)
1 cup brown sugar (for crockpot method)
1 tablespoon cinnamon (for crockpot method)
1 teaspoon ground cloves (for crockpot method)
3 egg whites (for crockpot method)
2 tablespoons vanilla extract (for crockpot method)
6 cups pecan halves (for crockpot method)

Instructions

Step 1: For the oven method, preheat your oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a large baking sheet with a baking mat or parchment paper and set aside.
Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup light brown sugar, 1 tablespoon cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon salt until combined.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the egg white, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon water until frothy. Add the 16 ounces of pecan halves and gently toss until well coated.
Step 4: Add the sugar and cinnamon mixture to the pecans and toss to evenly coat all the nuts.
Step 5: Spread the pecans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for about 40 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to ensure even cooking. The sugar will harden and coat the pecans.
Step 6: Remove from oven and let the pecans cool completely on the baking sheet before storing.
Step 7: For the crockpot method, whisk 3 egg whites with 2 tablespoons vanilla extract in a medium bowl until frothy.
Step 8: Place 6 cups of pecan halves in a medium bowl and pour the egg white mixture over them, tossing to coat evenly.
Step 9: Transfer the coated pecans to the crockpot. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon ground cloves, 1 tablespoon cinnamon, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 cup white sugar, and 1 cup brown sugar. Stir well to combine.
Step 10: Cover and cook on low for 2 to 2½ hours, stirring every 20–30 minutes to prevent burning. The pecans will become hard to stir as they candy.
Step 11: Line a large baking sheet or flat surface with parchment paper. Spread the cooked pecans out to cool and dry for about 3 hours before enjoying.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sugar mixture for a spicy kick.
Use raw pecans for the best texture and fresh taste.
Try substituting walnuts or almonds if pecans aren’t available.
Store pecans at room temperature in an airtight container to maintain crispness.

Storage

Store your candied pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one month. If you prefer, they can be refrigerated to extend freshness, but bring to room temperature before serving. Reheat gently in a low oven if you want to restore crispness.

How to Serve

A clear glass jar filled with multiple pieces of candied pecans dusted with sugar and spices, showing their brown, bumpy texture and ridged surfaces. The jar has a metal clasp on the left side and sits on a soft pink surface with small white designs and a sprinkling of white powder around it. In the background, there are blurred glass ornaments and soft light reflections that add a cozy atmosphere. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use pre-roasted pecans for this recipe?

It’s best to use raw, unsalted pecans to ensure the coating adheres well and the flavors balance perfectly. Pre-roasted pecans may not candy as evenly.

How do I keep candied pecans from sticking together?

Be sure to spread the pecans out in a single layer while cooling to allow them to dry properly. Stirring them periodically during cooking also helps prevent clumping.