Homemade Gifting: Baked Candied Pecans are Crispy, Sugary Goodness for Gifting & Snacking by Ann Marie G. Halstead

I have always appreciated homemade gifts, especially from my kids. I've noticed that they're becoming more and more popular. I'm seeing Tik Tok videos with ideas for homemade food treats and crafted items, as well as "thrifted gifts." I've never tried thrifted gifts (though I do love a good thrift shop!). I have gifted food and crafted items in the past, though. I have made homemade granola for my sons' teachers (next on my list is homemade vanilla), and have gifted homemade Christmas decor to family members. I like how personal it feels. You can always add a gift card or something else if you like.

Here's a homemade recipe for the foodie in your life: candied pecans. I love candied nuts, especially during the holidays. They are a great snack, delicious in salads and desserts, and the perfect gift for foodie friends and family. I love this recipe; I could eat these candied pecans by the handful! Happy gifting!

Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings: 

Ingredients

4 cups unsalted pecans halves
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup light brown sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (or allspice or nutmeg)
1 teaspoon salt
1 egg white
1/2 teaspoon store bought or homemade vanilla extract
1 teaspoon water

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Recipe Notes

I personally prefer eating candied nuts at room temperature but you can eat them warm. Just note that they may be stickier. Either way, they’re delicious!

Once cool, pecans can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for 2 to 3 weeks.

Here’s how to make it:

Preheat oven to 300 degrees F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.

In a medium-sized bowl, add granulated sugar, light brown sugar, cinnamon and salt. Whisk until well combined and set bowl aside.

In a large bowl, whisk the egg white, vanilla and water together until it all becomes frothy. Add pecans and gently toss until well coated. Add the sugar mixture and toss until pecans are well covered.

Lay the pecans out in a single layer on baking sheet. Bake for about 30-45 minutes, depending on your oven, shaking/stirring every 15 minutes. While baking, the sugar mixture will harden.

Remove from the oven and let the pecans cool. They will harden as they cool, with a crisp, sugary coating. Serve at room temperature.