Irresistible Maple Candied Spiced Pecans: Your Ultimate Sweet & Savory Snack Recipe

Searching for that perfect snack that hits all the right notes? Look no further than these **Maple Candied Spiced Pecans**! With their irresistible blend of sweet maple, a subtle kick from Cajun spice, and a perfect touch of sea salt, these delightful bites are designed to tantalize your taste buds. They offer a harmonious balance that makes them the ideal companion for virtually any occasion and any beverage – from a crisp beer to a refreshing seltzer with lime, or even your favorite cocktail. Their unique sweet-heat profile ensures they’ll be the star of your next gathering, effortlessly elevating any cocktail hour or casual get-together.

Pecans have truly blossomed into one of my most cherished nuts to incorporate into cooking and baking. Their rich, buttery flavor and satisfying crunch make them incredibly versatile. Beyond being a standalone snack, they shine in various dishes. For instance, they add a fantastic textural contrast and nutty depth to fresh, vibrant salads like my Radicchio Pear Salad with Maple Vinaigrette. I also frequently use them as a delightful alternative to walnuts in my Baked Oatmeal recipe, offering a slightly different, yet equally delicious, flavor profile. And, of course, no discussion of pecans would be complete without mentioning my husband’s absolute favorite, the decadent Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Pie. These spiced candied pecans, however, carve out their own special niche as an effortlessly elegant and incredibly addictive treat.

The Allure of Pecans: Fun Facts and Nutritional Powerhouse

Before we dive into the delicious recipe, let’s appreciate the humble pecan a little more. These fascinating nuts have a rich history and impressive nutritional profile:

• The **United States** is a global leader in pecan production, cultivating an astounding 80% of all pecans worldwide. This dominance is supported by about 1000 different varieties, each with its subtle flavor and texture nuances.
• Pecans thrive best in warmer climates, with the majority of the crops originating from the sun-drenched states of **Texas and Georgia**. These regions provide the ideal conditions for the trees to flourish.
• The pecan is truly a **North American native species**, with its roots primarily found in the American South, southcentral states, and parts of Mexico. Indigenous peoples have long harvested and utilized this valuable nut.
• Beyond their incredible taste, pecans are a fantastic source of **monounsaturated fats**, which are known for their heart-healthy benefits. They also provide a good amount of **protein and fiber**, contributing to satiety and digestive health. Eating pecans can help lower bad cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease, making them a smart choice for a healthy diet. They are also packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals like zinc, magnesium, and vitamin E.
• Pecan trees are a patient investment, typically taking **2-5 years** to begin producing nuts. However, once established, they can continue to yield delicious pecans for many decades, some even for over a century!

Understanding these facts only adds to the appreciation of this versatile and beneficial nut, making our sweet and spicy pecan recipe even more appealing.

Crafting the Perfect Bite: An Easy Recipe for Spiced Candied Pecans

This sweet and savory pecan recipe is astonishingly simple to prepare, requiring just a few common ingredients and minimal effort. Once you try them, these will quickly become your new favorite snack to keep on hand, especially during busy holiday seasons or whenever you need a quick, impressive appetizer. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability; you can effortlessly double or even triple the quantities to create a generous batch for larger gatherings, or to package up and share as thoughtful, homemade gifts. They are incredibly delicious, perfectly seasoned, and boast that addictive crunch we all crave.

My personal twist is the addition of **Cajun seasoning**. This not-so-secret ingredient introduces a wonderful depth of flavor, marrying savory notes with just the slightest hint of heat, which beautifully complements the sweetness of the maple syrup. It’s this unexpected warmth that truly elevates these candied pecans from good to absolutely unforgettable, making them stand out from traditional versions.

The Essential Ingredients for Maple Candied Spiced Pecans

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating these delectable treats. You’ll be surprised how such simple components can create such a complex and satisfying flavor profile.

• 1 cup of raw pecan halves: Opt for raw pecan halves as they have a naturally buttery flavor and their texture allows the coating to adhere better. Roasting them from scratch ensures they develop a fresh, nutty aroma during the baking process.
• 2 tablespoons of pure Maple syrup: The “pure” here is crucial! Real maple syrup provides a deep, complex sweetness with caramel notes that imitation syrups simply cannot replicate. It also contributes to the glossy, candied texture.
• 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar (white): This adds an extra layer of sweetness and, more importantly, helps create a crispy, caramelized coating on the pecans. It aids in achieving that delightful crunch.
• 1/4 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning blend: This is where the magic happens! Cajun seasoning, typically a mix of paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano, brings a savory, aromatic, and slightly spicy dimension. Adjust the amount to your preferred level of heat.
• 1 teaspoon of coarse sea salt: Coarse sea salt isn’t just for seasoning; it enhances all the other flavors, making the maple sweeter and the Cajun spice more vibrant. Its larger crystals also provide a pleasant textural contrast and a pop of briny goodness.

Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy that defines these exceptional candied pecans.

Step-by-Step: How to Bake Your Perfect Spiced Pecans

Making these spiced candied pecans is a straightforward process, but paying attention to a few details will ensure perfect results every time. Here’s a detailed guide:

You will need a standard **rimmed cookie sheet**, which is essential to prevent any pecans from rolling off. To ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking, make sure to line your baking sheet with **parchment paper or a nonstick silicone cookie sheet liner (Silpat)**. Additionally, have a **small bowl** ready for mixing your ingredients.

1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200°C). Achieving the correct oven temperature before the pecans go in is vital for a quick, even bake and a perfectly caramelized coating. A hotter oven helps to create that desired crispiness without over-roasting the nuts themselves.

2. Prepare the Pecan Mixture: In your small bowl, combine all of the ingredients: the raw pecan halves, pure maple syrup, granulated sugar, Cajun seasoning blend, and coarse sea salt. **Toss them exceptionally well.** Use a spoon or spatula to ensure that every single pecan half is thoroughly and evenly coated with the sticky, seasoned mixture. This even coating is key to consistent flavor and texture in every bite.

3. Spread and Bake: Pour the entire pecan mixture onto the prepared lined cookie sheet. Using your spatula or the back of a spoon, gently spread the pecans into a single, even layer. It’s important that they are not piled on top of each other, as this can lead to uneven baking. **Bake for 5-7 minutes.**

4. Monitor for Doneness: This step is critical! Begin checking the nuts at the 5-minute mark. Pecans can go from perfectly toasted to burnt very quickly due to their high oil content and the sugar coating. Look for a golden-brown color and a fragrant, toasty aroma. Depending on the specific heat intensity and calibration of your oven, you might need an extra minute or two, but never leave them unattended during this short baking window.

5. Cool Properly: Once baked to perfection, remove the cookie sheet from the oven. Carefully slide the parchment paper or Silpat liner, with the pecans still on it, directly off the hot cookie sheet and onto a cooling rack or a cool counter surface. This immediate removal from the hot metal sheet is crucial to **stop the baking process** and prevent the pecans from continuing to cook and potentially burn from residual heat. Allow them to cool completely.

6. Final Touch and Serve: As they cool, the sugar coating will harden, creating that wonderful crisp candy shell. Before serving, you can optionally top them with an additional pinch of fresh sea salt for an extra pop of flavor and visual appeal. Serve them warm (if you can’t wait!) or at room temperature. They are equally delicious either way!

Serving Suggestions & Gifting Ideas for Your Candied Pecans

These Maple Candied Spiced Pecans are incredibly versatile, making them perfect for a wide array of occasions and culinary uses. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

• **Cocktail Hour Star:** As mentioned, they are the quintessential party snack. Arrange them in a beautiful bowl for guests to enjoy with their drinks.
• **Charcuterie or Cheese Boards:** Add a handful of these pecans to your next charcuterie or cheese board. Their sweet, spicy, and salty profile provides a wonderful contrast to savory cheeses, cured meats, and fresh fruits.
• **Salad Topper:** Crush them lightly and sprinkle over a green salad for an unexpected crunch and burst of flavor. They pair especially well with salads featuring fruits like apples or pears, or with a creamy goat cheese.
• **Dessert Embellishment:** Crumble them over vanilla ice cream, yogurt parfaits, or even a simple panna cotta for an elevated dessert experience.
• **Breakfast Boost:** Add them to your morning oatmeal, granola, or sprinkle over pancakes and waffles for an extra layer of texture and taste.
• **Everyday Snacking:** Keep a small jar on your desk for a quick, energizing, and satisfying snack throughout the day.

Beyond personal enjoyment, these pecans make truly thoughtful and impressive **homemade gifts**. If you make a big batch, allow the pecans to cool completely, then get creative with your packaging:

• **Elegant Jars:** Place them in small, decorative glass jars with airtight lids. Tie a ribbon around the neck of the jar and attach a handwritten tag with the recipe name.
• **Cellophane Bags:** For a rustic yet charming presentation, use clear cellophane bags tied with a festive ribbon. This allows the beautiful pecans to be seen.
• **Gift Baskets:** Include them as part of a larger gourmet food basket, perhaps alongside other homemade treats, specialty coffees, or artisanal cheeses.

These candied pecans are a wonderful way to share a little homemade love during the holidays or simply as a token of appreciation any time of year.

How to Store Leftover Maple Candied Spiced Pecans

If you find yourself with any leftovers (a rare occurrence, I assure you!) or if you’ve deliberately made a large batch to share, proper storage is key to maintaining their irresistible crispness and flavor. The most important step is to ensure the pecans have **completely cooled** to room temperature before storing them. Storing them while still warm can trap moisture, leading to a loss of crispness and potentially affecting their shelf life.

Once thoroughly cooled, transfer the Maple Candied Spiced Pecans into a **small, airtight jar with a lid** or any other type of sealed container. A glass jar is often ideal as it keeps them fresh and allows you to admire your handiwork. Store the container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and excessive humidity. When stored correctly, these candied pecans can remain fresh and wonderfully crunchy for up to **2-3 weeks** at room temperature. For longer storage, you can even freeze them in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months; just thaw them at room temperature before serving.

For more small bites and snacks inspiration, be sure to check out all of our delicious, small bites recipes!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Candied Pecans

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All content and photographs ©Claudia’s Table and claudiastable.com

Maple Candied Spiced Pecans

Ana | Claudia’s Table

December 28, 2023

Maple Candied Spiced Pecans with a hint of Cajun spice and sea salt.

5 from 1 vote

Print Recipe
Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 5 minutes mins

Allow to cool 10 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Course Appetizer, Snack

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 226 kcal

Equipment

• 1 rimmed baking sheet
• 1 parchment paper or silicon baking mat (Silpat)
• 1 bowl small

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup raw pecan halves
• 2 tablespoons pure Maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon sugar, granulated white
• 1/4 teaspoon Cajun seasoning blend
• 1 teaspoon sea salt course

Cook ModePrevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

 

• Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
• In a small bowl, combine all of the ingredients and toss well. Ensure that all pecans are evenly covered with the sugar, maple syrup, and seasonings.
• Pour the pecan mixture onto the lined cookie sheet and ensure that the pecans are evenly distributed. Bake for 5-6 minutes.
• Make sure you check the nuts at 5 minutes to ensure the nuts don’t burn. Depending on the heat intensity of the oven, you may need an extra minute.
• Remove from oven and carefully remove the parchment paper or Silpat from the cookie sheet so the Maple Candied Spiced Pecans stop baking.
• Allow to cool. Top with a pinch of sea salt and serve warm.

Notes

Nutrition

Serving: 0.25cupCalories: 226kcal

Nutritional information is calculated online and should be used as a guide.

Keyword Cajun pecan recipe, candied pecans, maple pecans, spiced pecans recipe, spicy pecans

All content and photographs ©Claudia’s Table and claudiastable.com

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