If you’re looking for a snack that toes the perfect line between wholesome and delightfully indulgent, Stovetop Maple Candied Pecans are about to be your new obsession. Imagine crunchy pecans bathed in silky maple syrup, kissed with cinnamon, and finished with just the right hint of salt — all coming together in one pan, in just about 10 minutes. Whether you’re jazzing up your salads, gifting them during the holidays, or simply looking for an irresistible snack, these candied pecans will make you believe in stovetop magic! Let’s get started on transforming simple pantry staples into a treat you’ll reach for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes Stovetop Maple Candied Pecans so special is that the ingredient list is short, but each item pulls its weight in flavor. Every ingredient adds something essential — from crunch to sweetness to that warm, cozy spice — and together, they create snack perfection.
- Pecan halves: Raw pecans are a must for maximum crunch and nuttiness; halves expose more surface area for the maple coating to cling to.
- Pure maple syrup: Opt for real maple syrup (not pancake syrup!) for earthy sweetness and glossy coating.
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps the glaze caramelize; unsalted lets you control the saltiness.
- Ground cinnamon: Lends warmth and a fragrant, cozy touch that pairs beautifully with both maple and pecans.
- Salt: Brings all the flavors together and balances the sweetness; don’t skip it!
- Vanilla extract (optional): Stirred in at the end, vanilla rounds out the flavors with a soft, aromatic finish.
How to Make Stovetop Maple Candied Pecans
Step 1: Toast the Pecans (Optional, but Game-Changing)
If you’re after pecans with a deeper, toastier crunch, toss them into a dry nonstick skillet and toast over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring often. This extra step intensifies their natural flavor and is especially worthwhile if your pecans have been sitting in the pantry for a while.
Step 2: Combine Everything in the Skillet
Add the pecan halves, pure maple syrup, unsalted butter, ground cinnamon, and salt all at once to your skillet. Stir gently to ensure every pecan gets coated. The butter will melt, the syrup will begin to bubble, and you’ll smell that irresistible combo of cinnamon and maple wafting through your kitchen.
Step 3: Cook Until Thickened and Glossy
Keep the skillet over medium heat and stir frequently. After about 5–7 minutes, the maple syrup thickens up and becomes shiny. Watch for the moment the mixture turns a bit darker and the bubbling slows — that’s your cue. Every pecan should be wonderfully sticky and glossy at this stage.
Step 4: Add Vanilla (If Using) and Cool
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract for one last layer of aroma and flavor. Immediately pour the candied pecans onto a sheet of parchment paper, spreading them out into a single layer. Let them cool completely so the coating hardens and you get that crave-worthy crunch.
Step 5: Break Apart and Store
Once cool, break up any pecan clusters. Transfer your Stovetop Maple Candied Pecans to an airtight container. They’ll keep their crunch and flavor for days — if you can resist eating them all in one go!
How to Serve Stovetop Maple Candied Pecans
Garnishes
Garnish your Stovetop Maple Candied Pecans with an extra sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a light dusting of extra ground cinnamon for an eye-catching, flavor-packed presentation. If you’re gifting them, pack them with a cinnamon stick or a few dried orange peels for a festive touch.
Side Dishes
Don’t limit these pecans to snacking — try sprinkling them over leafy green salads, swirling into creamy Greek yogurt, or tossing onto cheese boards for an unexpected sweet-savory crunch. They also make a lovely topping for roasted sweet potatoes or hot bowls of oatmeal.
Creative Ways to Present
Package your Stovetop Maple Candied Pecans in mason jars, cellophane gift bags, or pretty tins tied with ribbon for a homemade gift. For parties, pile them in a small bowl with fresh herbs or dried fruit on the side, or use them to finish desserts like ice cream sundaes and frosted cakes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once completely cool, store these pecans in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and crunchy for up to one week. Be sure the container is truly airtight to prevent stickiness or staleness.
Freezing
If you want to make a big batch ahead of time, go ahead and freeze the Stovetop Maple Candied Pecans. Spread them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to three months; just let them come to room temperature before serving.
Reheating
If your candied pecans lose some crispness, revive them by spreading out on a lined baking sheet and warming briefly in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes. Let them cool completely to regain that signature crunch.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! This recipe works wonderfully with walnuts, almonds, or even cashews. The key is to keep the nut pieces similar in size to pecan halves so the glaze coats them evenly.
How do I keep the pecans from sticking together?
Spread the hot pecans out as much as possible in a single layer on parchment paper right after cooking. If a few clump together, wait until fully cool, then gently break them apart.
Is it necessary to add vanilla extract?
Not at all! The vanilla extract is completely optional; it adds an extra layer of flavor but your Stovetop Maple Candied Pecans will still taste amazing without it.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you sure can! Use a plant-based butter or simply omit the butter and add a splash of neutral oil instead. The results are still deliciously sticky and satisfying.
Why did my pecans turn out sticky?
If your candied pecans are sticky even after cooling, they likely needed a bit longer on the stove for the syrup to caramelize fully. Next time, cook for an extra minute or so and be sure to let them cool completely before storing.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you’ve tried Stovetop Maple Candied Pecans, you’ll find yourself reaching for the recipe again and again. They’re fast, easy, endlessly versatile, and guaranteed to impress every time. Whip up a batch to share — or to savor all by yourself! Happy snacking!
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Stovetop Maple Candied Pecans Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Total Time: 12 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy the sweet crunch of homemade Stovetop Maple Candied Pecans with this easy recipe. These candied pecans are perfect for snacking, adding to salads, or giving as a holiday gift. Made with just a few simple ingredients, they are a delightful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Pecans:
- 2 cups raw pecan halves
Maple Syrup Mixture:
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Candied Pecans: Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add pecans, maple syrup, butter, cinnamon, and salt. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring often, until the maple syrup thickens and coats the pecans.
- Cool and Store: Remove from heat, mix in vanilla extract if desired, then spread the pecans on parchment paper to cool. Break into pieces once cooled and store in an airtight container.
Notes
- For extra crunch, toast the pecans before adding the maple syrup.
- Great as a salad or yogurt topping, or as a holiday gift.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 55 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
