Description
Looking for a quick snack or a show-stopping salad topper? These Easy Maple Candied Pecans are just what you need. Naturally sweetened with real maple syrup and kissed with warm cinnamon and vanilla, they roast to a perfect glossy crunch in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re searching for a healthy snack, holiday gift, or creative salad cruncher, these candied pecans deliver big flavor with simple ingredients. Great for everything from quick breakfast toppings, to easy dinner sides, or even thoughtful homemade food gifts—this is one of those easy recipes you’ll make again and again.
Ingredients
2 cups raw pecan halves
1/3 cup pure maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Optional: Pinch of cayenne pepper
Optional: 1 tablespoon coconut sugar
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, sea salt, and optional spices.
3. Add pecans to the bowl and toss until fully coated in the maple mixture.
4. Spread the coated pecans on the baking sheet in a single, even layer.
5. Bake for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway through to prevent burning.
6. Let the pecans cool completely on the tray. They will harden as they cool.
7. Break apart if needed and store in an airtight container. Enjoy or gift!
Notes
Use 100% pure maple syrup for the richest, most authentic flavor.
Always let the pecans cool completely before storing to retain crunch.
For flavor variety, try adding pumpkin spice, cardamom, or smoked paprika.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Snack / Topping / Holiday Treat
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: candied pecans, maple pecans, holiday snack, salad topping, food gift, quick snack, healthy sweet snack