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Cinnamon-Vanilla Candied Pecans

Crunchy, sweet, and spiced pecans with a warm vanilla finish. Perfect for snacking, gifting, or elevating salads and desserts.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 16 1/4 cup
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Autumn
Calories: 220

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups raw pecan halves
  • 1 large egg white
  • 1 tbsp cold water
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 0.25 cup light brown sugar packed
  • 1.5 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 0.25 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 0.125 tsp cayenne pepper optional
  • 0.5 tsp fine sea salt
  • 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Whisk and Spatula

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk the egg white and cold water until frothy.
  3. Add the pecans to the bowl and stir until they are evenly coated with the egg white mixture.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cayenne (if using), and salt.
  5. Pour the sugar-spice mixture over the coated pecans. Fold and stir until every pecan is thoroughly covered.
  6. Spread the pecans in a single, even layer on the prepared baking sheet.
  7. Bake for 45-50 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes, until the pecans are fragrant, dry, and deep golden brown.
  8. Immediately upon removing from the oven, drizzle with vanilla extract and toss quickly to coat.
  9. Allow the pecans to cool completely on the baking sheet until crisp before breaking apart and storing.

Notes

For best results, ensure pecans are in a single layer and cool completely before storing. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.