Easy Maple Candied Pecans

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Crunchy, glossy, and irresistibly sweet, these Easy Maple Candied Pecans are a true treat that strike the perfect balance between indulgent and wholesome. Whether you’re sprinkling them over salads, serving them at a party, or enjoying them straight from the bowl, these pecans offer a satisfying crunch and a rich maple flavor that lingers just long enough to make you reach for another. With only a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, they’re the perfect snack to whip up for holiday gatherings or weekly meal prep.

What makes this recipe truly special is the simplicity of the process. Using just maple syrup, a touch of cinnamon, vanilla, and sea salt, these pecans are transformed in the oven into glossy, caramelized bites of joy. There’s no refined sugar involved, and the natural sweetness of the maple syrup pairs beautifully with the buttery texture of the pecans. It’s a cleaner, tastier alternative to traditional candied nuts—and they happen to be vegan and gluten-free too.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Maple Candied Pecans Recipe

• Just 5 ingredients and no refined sugar
• Naturally vegan and gluten-free
• Perfect for salads, snacks, or holiday gifts
• Quick prep and minimal cleanup
• Packed with crunch and caramelized maple goodness

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To prepare these maple candied pecans, you won’t need anything fancy. The essential tools include:

• Mixing Bowl: To coat the pecans evenly with the maple syrup mixture.
• Spatula or Wooden Spoon: Helps you stir and ensure everything is well mixed.
• Baking Sheet: The pecans need to be roasted evenly, so a large baking sheet allows for a single layer spread.
• Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.

Each of these tools plays a key role—especially the parchment paper or silicone mat, which keeps the sweet syrup from turning into a hard-to-scrub mess on your pan.

Preparation Tips

For best results, start with fresh, raw pecans—stale or roasted nuts won’t absorb the maple coating as well. Be sure to mix thoroughly so every pecan gets an even coating. Spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure even roasting and prevent clumping. Keep a close eye on them in the final minutes—they can go from golden to burnt quickly. Once baked, let them cool completely before breaking them apart, as they’ll firm up and crisp as they cool.

Ingredients for Easy Maple Candied Pecans

• 2 cups raw pecan halves
• 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp sea salt

Optional:

• Pinch of cayenne pepper (for a sweet and spicy kick)
• 1 tbsp coconut sugar (for extra caramelization)

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Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.

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Step 2: Mix the Maple Coating

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and sea salt. Whisk until fully blended. If using cayenne pepper or coconut sugar, add them now and stir until incorporated.

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Step 3: Coat the Pecans

Add the raw pecan halves to the bowl. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to toss the pecans in the maple mixture until they are fully coated. Make sure every pecan gets a generous glaze for even flavor.

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Step 4: Spread on Baking Sheet

Transfer the coated pecans to the prepared baking sheet. Spread them out into a single layer, making sure they are not overlapping. This ensures even roasting and prevents them from sticking together in clumps.

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Step 5: Bake and Stir

Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring the pecans halfway through to ensure even caramelization. Keep a close eye during the last 5 minutes to avoid burning.

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Step 6: Cool Completely

Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the pecans cool completely on the tray. As they cool, they will harden and become glossy. Do not touch or move them too much until they’re firm.

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Step 7: Store or Serve

Once fully cooled, break apart any clumps and transfer to an airtight container. These pecans can be enjoyed immediately or stored for up to two weeks at room temperature. Use them as toppings, gifts, or on their own as a snack.

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Notes

Using high-quality, pure maple syrup makes all the difference in this recipe—it lends depth and a clean sweetness without overpowering the natural nuttiness of the pecans. Allowing the pecans to cool completely before storing is key to achieving that perfect, candied crunch. If you like variety, consider experimenting with flavors like pumpkin spice, cardamom, or even a touch of smoked paprika for a savory-sweet combo.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcrowding the baking sheet: Pecans need space to roast evenly; crowding leads to uneven caramelization and soggy texture.
• Skipping the stir halfway through: Stirring ensures all sides are roasted and prevents sticking or burning.
• Not cooling before storage: Warm pecans will steam in a closed container, leading to a chewy texture instead of a crisp bite.
• Using artificial syrup: Only pure maple syrup will caramelize properly and deliver the rich, authentic flavor.

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Storage Instructions

Once fully cooled, store the candied pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to a month, or freeze them for up to 3 months. Make sure they’re fully cooled before storing to preserve their crisp texture. If frozen, let them come to room temperature before serving.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per 1/4 cup serving)

• Calories: 210
• Total Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 17g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 60mg
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 3g

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Frequently Asked Questions

What type of maple syrup should I use?

Use 100% pure maple syrup. Grade A (Amber or Dark) works best for its rich flavor.

Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?

Yes! Walnuts work just as well and provide a slightly earthier flavor.

Are these pecans spicy?

Only if you add cayenne. The base recipe is sweet with warm cinnamon.

Can I double the batch?

Absolutely. Just use two baking sheets and rotate their position halfway through baking.

How do I prevent them from sticking together?

Let them cool fully on the baking sheet before transferring them. They harden as they cool.

Can I use this as a salad topping?

Yes! These pecans are perfect on salads, especially with goat cheese or fruit.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free as long as you use certified GF ingredients.

What’s the best way to gift these?

Package them in mason jars or treat bags with ribbon. Great for holidays or hostess gifts.

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Conclusion

Easy Maple Candied Pecans are the ultimate blend of convenience and flavor. With just five ingredients and a quick oven bake, you get a versatile snack or topping that’s as wholesome as it is delicious. Whether you’re making a batch for the holidays, adding crunch to a salad, or just treating yourself, these pecans are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

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