Get ready to fill your kitchen with the most intoxicating, sweet-and-spicy aroma! These stovetop glazed pecans are my go-to recipe for a quick, elegant treat. In less than 10 minutes, you can transform simple pecans into a crunchy, candy-coated snack that’s absolutely irresistible. They’re perfect for topping salads, jazzing up a cheese board, or just munching on by the handful. Plus, they make a wonderful homemade gift for the holidays!
Ingredients
• 2 tablespoons / 28g unsalted butter
• 1⁄8 cup / 25g packed brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon / 21g honey
• 1 teaspoon / 3g ground cinnamon
• 1 cup / 110g pecan halves
Instructions
1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Stir in the brown sugar, honey, and ground cinnamon until combined.
2. Add the pecans to the saucepan, stirring gently to coat each one completely in the glaze mixture.
3. Increase the heat to medium and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly for about 2-3 minutes, or until the sugar is fully dissolved and the glaze has thickened.
4. Immediately pour the glazed pecans onto a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread them into a single layer.
5. Allow the pecans to cool completely. Once cool, break apart any clumps and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Nutritional Information
• Yields: 1 cupServing Size: 1/4 cupApproximate Cost: $2.09
• Calories: 257
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 2mg
Pro Tips
• For easy cleanup and to prevent sticking, spread the hot pecans on a sheet of parchment paper or a silicone baking mat instead of a greased pan.
• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of nutmeg along with the cinnamon to create a sweet and spicy flavor profile.
• Ensure the pecans are completely cool before storing them. Storing them while still warm will create steam and cause them to lose their signature crunch.
• Watch the glaze carefully as it boils to prevent it from burning. The process happens very quickly once the sugar starts to caramelize.
FAQ
Q: Can I make these glazed pecans vegan
A: Yes, absolutely! To make this recipe vegan, simply substitute the unsalted butter with an equal amount of plant-based butter or coconut oil. For the sweetener, replace the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a delicious, completely plant-based treat.
Q: Are these glazed pecans a healthy vegetarian snack
A: These glazed pecans are a wonderful vegetarian treat to be enjoyed in moderation. Pecans themselves offer healthy fats and fiber. While this recipe includes sugar, they are a more wholesome option than many store-bought candies. For a lower-sugar version, you can try reducing the brown sugar and honey slightly.
Q: What vegetarian dishes can I use these pecans in
A: These glazed pecans are incredibly versatile in a vegetarian diet! They add a fantastic sweet crunch to salads, especially with goat cheese and cranberries. You can also sprinkle them over roasted vegetables like butternut squash, top your morning oatmeal or yogurt, or add them to a vegetarian cheese and fruit board.
Q: How long do these homemade glazed pecans last
A: For the best crunch and flavor, store the completely cooled glazed pecans in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to one week, making them a great make-ahead vegetarian snack or gift.
