Sweet Glazed Pecans

Here’s an easy 3-step process to make these stovetop candied pecans:

1. Prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper. Combine sugar, water, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Cook the mixture until the sugar starts melting, then add the pecans. Stir regularly until the nuts become glazed and toasted.
3. Transfer the nuts onto the lined sheet pan to cool, using a fork to separate them.

 

Here are some variations you can try with the candied pecans recipe:

• Experiment with a mix of nuts like pecans, walnuts, and almonds, or opt for only walnuts if preferred.
• Add a touch of spiciness by incorporating 1 teaspoon of chili powder and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Freshly ground black pepper is also an excellent spicy addition.
• Substitute water with freshly squeezed orange juice and include some orange zest for a citrusy twist.
• Replace granulated sugar with brown sugar for a different sweetness profile.
• Enhance flavors by adding 1-2 tablespoons of fresh, chopped thyme and/or rosemary.
• Create a savory version by excluding cinnamon and nutmeg, and instead use chili powder, cayenne, black pepper, ½-1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder.

Are Glazed Pecans Different From Candied Pecans?

Glazed pecans and candied pecans share many similarities. Typically, glazed pecans involve a mixture of corn syrup, sugar, and butter, whereas candied pecans often include sugar and egg whites. The addition of egg white in many candied nut recipes acts as a binding agent, aiding the sugar coating to adhere to the nuts. However, in my recipe, I omit the egg white as it creates a milky coating that, in my experience, doesn’t significantly enhance the nuts. The sweet sugar blend adheres perfectly to the nuts without it.