Candied Pecans

Ingredients

• 4 cups Pecan halves
• 1/2 cup Water
• 1 cup Granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup Brown sugar (packed)
• 2 tablespoons Pure maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon Ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon Ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon Salt
• 1 tablespoon Coconut oil (or other neutral oil)
• 1/8 teaspoon Optional: Pinch of cayenne pepper

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. 2

   In a large saucepan, combine water, granulated sugar, brown sugar, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, and optional cayenne pepper.

3. 3

   Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is dissolved.

4. 4

   Add the pecan halves to the saucepan and stir continuously to coat them evenly with the sugar syrup.

5. 5

   Continue cooking and stirring the pecans for about 10-15 minutes, or until the syrup has thickened and coated the pecans and most of the liquid has evaporated. The mixture should look sticky.

6. 6

   Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the coconut oil. This helps prevent sticking and adds a touch of richness.

7. 7

   Spread the candied pecans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not clumped together.

8. 8

   Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pecans are toasted and the coating is set. Stir halfway through to ensure even cooking.

9. 9

   Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the candied pecans cool completely on the baking sheet. As they cool, the coating will harden further.

10. 10

    Once completely cool, break apart any remaining clumps and store in an airtight container at room temperature.

Recipe Variations

• →Try adding different herbs for variety.
• →Substitute ingredients based on dietary needs.