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Crunchy Candied Pecans Recipe with Maple and Cinnamon

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A sweet, spicy, sticky, and crispy snack made with raw pecans coated in real maple syrup, cinnamon, and sugar, then baked to perfection. Perfect for snacking, gifting, or topping salads and desserts.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (about 200g) raw pecan halves
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) pure maple syrup (Grade A Amber recommended)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (or coconut sugar)
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, plus a pinch more for finishing
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional, can substitute with plant-based alternative for dairy-free)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine maple syrup, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, sea salt, vanilla extract, and melted butter (if using). Stir until sugar starts to dissolve and mixture is well combined.
  3. Add the raw pecan halves to the syrup mixture and toss with a spatula or wooden spoon until all pecans are lightly coated but not dripping.
  4. Spread the coated pecans in a single, even layer on the prepared baking sheet, avoiding overcrowding.
  5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring once halfway through. Watch closely after 18 minutes to avoid burning.
  6. Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle with a pinch more sea salt while still warm.
  7. Cool completely on the baking sheet or transfer to a cooling rack to crisp up.
  8. Store in an airtight container once cooled. They keep well for up to two weeks.

Notes

Bake at a low temperature (300°F) to avoid burning and ensure even caramelization. Stir pecans halfway through baking to prevent clumping. Use real maple syrup for best flavor. If pecans are sticky after cooling, bake for an additional 5 minutes at 275°F to dry them out. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks or freeze for up to three months. Let thaw before serving. For dairy-free or vegan versions, omit butter or use plant-based alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: candied pecans, maple pecans, cinnamon pecans, crunchy snack, homemade pecans, holiday snack, vegan snack option, gluten-free snack

Find it online: https://gleefulfork.com/crunchy-candied-pecans-recipe-with-maple-and-cinnamon-perfect-for-snacks/