Easy Maple Candied Pecans

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If you’re looking for a quick snack or a delightful addition to salads, desserts, or cheeseboards, these Easy Maple Candied Pecans might become your new favorite. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients and under 15 minutes of time, you’ll have a crunchy, sweet, and slightly salty treat that’s hard to resist.

These pecans are naturally sweetened with real maple syrup and don’t require refined sugar, eggs, or fancy equipment. Just a skillet and some pantry staples, and you’re on your way to a batch of perfectly caramelized nuts that make your kitchen smell like a cozy holiday morning.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Maple Candied Pecans Recipe

This recipe is all about simplicity and big reward. You get a sweet crunch without the heaviness of traditional candied nuts. The use of maple syrup brings a rich, earthy sweetness that complements the buttery pecans beautifully. Whether you serve them warm from the pan or cooled and crisp, they’re incredibly satisfying. Perfect for gifting, topping a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or just munching by the handful.

Can I Use Other Nuts Instead of Pecans?

Absolutely. While pecans are especially buttery and absorb maple syrup like a dream, this method works just as well with walnuts or cashews. Almonds will be crunchier and might need a slightly longer cooking time, but the glaze will still cling to them deliciously.

Ingredients for the Easy Maple Candied Pecans

To make these pecans shine, you only need a few simple ingredients you likely already have at home. These ingredients are not only easy to find but also work beautifully together to bring out the rich flavor of the nuts.

Pecans
This is the star ingredient. Their natural buttery flavor pairs perfectly with sweet glaze and crisps up nicely in the skillet.

Maple Syrup
A natural sweetener that gives these pecans their signature rich flavor and a glossy, candied coating. Use pure maple syrup for best results.

Coconut Oil
Adds a hint of richness and helps the syrup coat the nuts evenly. You can also use butter if that’s your preference.

Cinnamon
For warmth and spice. It adds a cozy aroma that really elevates the flavor.

Vanilla Extract
Deepens the sweetness and rounds out the maple and spice notes beautifully.

Sea Salt
Just a pinch brings balance and enhances the sweet and nutty flavors.

How To Make the Easy Maple Candied Pecans

Step 1: Toast the Pecans

Place a large nonstick skillet over medium heat and add the pecans. Toast them for about 2–3 minutes until fragrant, stirring often so they don’t burn.

Step 2: Add the Maple Mixture

Lower the heat slightly and pour in the maple syrup, coconut oil, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Stir to coat all the pecans evenly.

Step 3: Cook Until Candied

Continue to cook for another 3–5 minutes, stirring constantly. The mixture will bubble, and then thicken as it reduces. Once the pecans look glossy and most of the liquid is gone, remove from heat.

Step 4: Cool and Crisp

Spread the pecans out on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let them cool completely; they will crisp up as they sit.

How to Serve and Store Maple Candied Pecans

This recipe yields about 2 cups of maple candied pecans and serves 6 to 8 people, depending on how snacky everyone feels.

These are fantastic on their own, but also shine as toppings on salads (especially those with apples or cranberries), yogurt parfaits, oatmeal bowls, and desserts. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or refrigerate for even longer freshness. You can also freeze them for a future crunch.

What to Serve With Maple Candied Pecans?

Serve with Apple Spinach Salad

The sweetness of the pecans balances out the tang of apple slices and a vinaigrette dressing beautifully.

Sprinkle Over Baked Brie

Warm brie topped with maple pecans and a drizzle of honey is always a crowd-pleaser.

Add to Charcuterie Boards

They pair perfectly with cheeses, dried fruits, and savory crackers.

Top Pancakes or Waffles

Swap syrup for these candied pecans and take your breakfast game to another level.

Stir into Vanilla Ice Cream

The contrast of cold and crunch is addictive in the best way.

Pair with Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Toss them over sweet potatoes for added texture and a burst of flavor.

Include in Holiday Cookie Trays

They make a lovely edible garnish or a sweet bite on the side.

Want More Snack Ideas?

If you’re loving this maple pecan crunch, check out a few more snack and side dish favorites you’ll want to bookmark:

• Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is the cozy cousin to these candied nuts.
• Cheesy Brussels Sprout Bake gives you savory satisfaction with a cheesy twist.
• Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole if you’re feeling fancy but still want something easy.
• Old Time Oven Peach Cobbler is the perfect dessert partner to pecans.
• Red Lobster’s Cheese Biscuit Loaf for a savory and soft addition to your snack board.

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Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use maple or honey? Add any spice like cayenne or nutmeg? I’d love to hear your twists!

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and seasonal bites on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to flavor combos.

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