Glazed Pecan Recipe 1764346073.455164
Snacks

Glazed Pecan Recipe

I love discovering those little recipes that transform simple ingredients into something truly special. This glazed pecan recipe does just that, filling your kitchen with an incredible aroma of warm spices and citrus while creating a truly irresistible treat. It’s surprisingly easy to whip up for quick family snacks, elevating salads, or impressing guests. Our foolproof method guarantees perfectly crisp, sweet glazed pecans every single time, making this an essential glazed pecan recipe for your collection. Get ready to master the art of homemade glazed pecans with this simple guide.

glazed pecan recipe

Ingredients for the Perfect Glazed Pecan Recipe

Gathering fresh, quality ingredients is the first step to truly delicious glazed pecans.

  • Pecan Halves: Choose plump, fresh raw pecan halves for the best texture and flavor. (400 g / 14 oz)
  • Granulated Sugar: Our key sweetener, forming the initial crunchy glaze. (100 g / 1/2 cup)
  • Light Brown Sugar, packed: Adds a deeper caramel note and richness to the glaze. (50 g / 1/4 cup)
  • Water: Essential for dissolving the sugars and creating the syrup base. (60 ml / 1/4 cup)
  • Unsalted Butter: Provides richness and a beautiful glossy finish. (30 g / 2 tablespoons) (Swap: A high-quality plant-based butter works well for a vegan option.)
  • Ground Cinnamon: Adds warm, comforting spice. (5 ml / 1 teaspoon)
  • Ground Cardamom: A unique, aromatic touch that complements the orange beautifully. (1 ml / 1/4 teaspoon)
  • Fine Sea Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors. (2.5 ml / 1/2 teaspoon)
  • Orange Zest, finely grated: Infuses a bright, fresh citrus aroma throughout the glaze. (Zest of 1 large orange)
  • Pure Orange Blossom Water: This premium ingredient adds an authentic, delicate floral note. (5 ml / 1 teaspoon) (Swap: If unavailable, extra orange zest can boost citrus notes.)
  • Finely Chopped Pistachios: For a lovely color contrast and added crunch. (20 g / 2 tablespoons, for garnish)
  • Thin Orange Zest Strips: Provides a vibrant pop of color and fresh citrus aroma. (From 1/4 orange, for garnish)
  • Flaky Sea Salt: A final delicate shower to highlight contrasting flavors. (2 g / 1/2 teaspoon, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions for Your Glazed Pecan Recipe

  1. Prep Your Space: Preheat oven to 150°C (300°F); line a large baking sheet with parchment. I always prep ingredients first; it saves time.

  2. Create the Glaze Base: In a medium saucepan, combine granulated and light brown sugar, water, unsalted butter, cinnamon, cardamom, sea salt, and orange zest. Heat over medium, stirring until melted, dissolved, and gently boiling (3-5 min); mixture should look glossy and clear.

  3. Add Pecans: Remove from heat; stir in orange blossom water. Immediately add pecan halves, stirring thoroughly until evenly coated and glistening with the glaze.

    For a low-carb glazed pecan recipe, use 1:1 sugar alternative. For a vegan glazed pecan recipe, use plant-based butter.

  4. Achieve the Gloss: Spread pecans on baking sheet. Bake 30-40 min at 150°C (300°F), stirring every 10-15 min; observe deep golden color and set, shiny glaze.

    If the glaze seems too thin or sticky, extended baking for a few minutes can help it dry and set.

  5. Finish & Cool: Remove from oven; immediately transfer pecans to clean parchment or a wire rack to cool (15-20 min). Glaze hardens and crisps; break clusters.

Once completely cooled, sprinkle these delicious glazed pecans with finely chopped pistachios, delicate orange zest strips for vibrant color, and a final shower of flaky sea salt.

Best Times to Enjoy and Storage Tips for Glazed Pecans

This easy glazed pecan recipe offers delicious versatility for any occasion.

  • Enjoy as: Party appetizer, quick lunch, holiday snack, or dessert topping.
  • Serving pairings: Salad sprinkle, ice cream topper, yogurt mix-in, coffee pairing.
  • Storage: Airtight container. 1 week room temp, 3 weeks fridge, 3 months freezer.

Health, Nutrition & Lifestyle Benefits of This Glazed Pecan Recipe

This glazed pecan recipe offers great health and lifestyle benefits, with heart-healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants.

  • Heart Health: Supports cardiovascular wellness.
  • Energy: Sustained energy; great for high-protein snacks.
  • Antioxidants: Protects cells.
  • Fiber: Aids digestion, promotes fullness.
  • Dinner Ideas: Flavorful salad or grain bowl topping.
  • Meal Prep: Prepare ahead for grab-and-go healthy eating.
  • Low-Carb: Adaptable with sugar substitutes.
glazed pecan recipe

How This Glazed Pecan Recipe Matches Everyday Goals

Our simple glazed pecan recipe aligns with budget, time, and wellness goals.

  • Time-Saver: Ready in under 15 minutes.
  • Kid-Friendly: Sweet, crunchy, always a hit.
  • Versatile: Snacking, baking, gifting, enhancing dishes.
  • Budget-Conscious: Uses affordable pantry ingredients.

Pro Tips and Adjustments for Your Glazed Pecan Recipe

Achieve crisp, flavorful glazed pecans with these tips. I always recommend a heavy-bottomed skillet for even heat. Ensure pecans cool completely in a single layer for maximum crispness in this glazed pecan recipe.

  • Seasoning: Sea salt after cooking enhances flavor; try nutmeg or allspice.
  • Modifications: Ensure no cross-contamination. For picky eaters, stick to classic vanilla.

FAQs about the Glazed Pecan Recipe

Is this glazed pecan recipe good for weight loss?

Pecans are calorie-dense but packed with healthy fats and fiber which promote satiety. Enjoy these glazed pecans in moderation as part of a balanced diet. They can be a satisfying component of mindful eating plans.

Where to buy quality pecan ingredients?

Look for fresh, plump pecan halves in the baking aisle of your local grocery store, at specialty food shops, or farmers’ markets. For the best flavor in your glazed pecan recipe, quality makes a noticeable difference, offering a premium ingredient experience.

Can I use this glazed pecan recipe in meal prep plans?

Absolutely! Make a larger batch at the beginning of the week and portion them out for convenient snacks, salad toppings, or a quick addition to your breakfast yogurt. They store wonderfully, making them excellent for quick meal prep recipes.

How do I prevent my glazed pecans from sticking?

The key is to spread them immediately in a single layer on parchment paper after cooking and allow them to cool completely undisturbed. They will crisp up and separate as they cool. I find that giving the baking sheet a gentle shake every few minutes during cooling helps prevent clusters.

Can I make these glazed pecans without butter?

You can omit the butter, but they might be less glossy and have a slightly different texture. A small amount of coconut oil could be an alternative if you prefer a vegan glazed pecan recipe option, though the flavor will change slightly.

What’s the best type of pecan to use for this recipe?

Fresh, raw pecan halves are ideal for this easy recipe. Avoid pre-roasted or salted pecans unless you adjust the recipe’s salt content carefully. Halves hold the glaze beautifully, ensuring every bite of your glazed pecan recipe is perfect.

This glazed pecan recipe provides an easy, delicious way to enjoy a sweet, crunchy treat. I promise, they’re perfect for quick meals or family snacks. Save this recipe on Pinterest to always have it handy!

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Glazed Pecan Recipe 1764346073.455164

glazed pecan recipe


  • Author: Sarah Williams
  • Total Time: 75 minutes
  • Yield: 810 servings 1x
  • Diet: General (Vegan and Low-Carb options)

Description

This recipe transforms simple ingredients into irresistible glazed pecans, filling your kitchen with warm spices and citrus aromas. It’s easy to make for snacks, salads, or impressing guests, ensuring perfectly crisp, sweet pecans every time.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 14 oz pecan halves
  • 0.5 cup granulated sugar
  • 0.25 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 0.25 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (Swap: A high-quality plant-based butter works well for a vegan option.)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 0.25 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 0.5 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • Zest of 1 large orange, finely grated
  • 1 teaspoon pure orange blossom water (Swap: If unavailable, extra orange zest can boost citrus notes.)
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped pistachios, for garnish
  • Strips from 0.25 orange, for garnish
  • 0.5 teaspoon flaky sea salt, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prep Oven and Tray: Preheat oven to 150 C (300 F); line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Create Glaze Base: In a medium saucepan, combine granulated and light brown sugar, water, unsalted butter, cinnamon, cardamom, sea salt, and orange zest. Heat over medium, stirring until melted, dissolved, and gently boiling (3-5 min); mixture should look glossy and clear.
  3. Coat Pecans: Remove from heat; stir in orange blossom water. Immediately add pecan halves, stirring thoroughly until evenly coated and glistening with the glaze. (For a low-carb option, use 1:1 sugar alternative. For a vegan option, use plant-based butter.)
  4. Bake Pecans: Spread pecans evenly on the baking sheet. Bake for 30-40 minutes at 150 C (300 F), stirring every 10-15 minutes, until a deep golden color and a set, shiny glaze are observed. (If the glaze seems too thin or sticky, extended baking for a few minutes can help it dry and set.)
  5. Cool and Garnish: Remove from oven; immediately transfer pecans to clean parchment paper or a wire rack to cool for 15-20 minutes. Glaze will harden and crisp; break any clusters. Once completely cooled, sprinkle with finely chopped pistachios, thin orange zest strips, and flaky sea salt.

Notes

Store cooled glazed pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For a low-carb version, use a 1:1 sugar alternative. For a vegan option, use plant-based butter.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 0.25 cup (about 50 g)
  • Calories: 450 calories
  • Sugar: 19 g
  • Sodium: 220 mg
  • Fat: 38 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 30 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 23 g
  • Fiber: 5 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 8 mg

Keywords: glazed pecans, sweet snack, candied nuts, easy recipe, orange, cardamom, baking, dessert, holiday, party food