Welcome to a recipe so simple, yet so incredibly satisfying, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen! If you adore snacks that strike the perfect balance between sweet and savory, with just a whisper of heat, then you’re in for a treat. This Honey Glazed Pecan recipe isn’t just easy; it’s a culinary delight that transforms humble pecans into an irresistible indulgence. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, preparing these delightful candied pecans is a breeze, promising maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Honey Glazed Pecans: The Ultimate Sweet & Spicy Snack
The quest for the perfect portable snack often leads to uninspired choices. However, my desire to create something special for my husband, John, to take to work led to the creation of these phenomenal Honey Glazed Pecans. I wanted a snack that offered a harmonious blend of sweetness and a gentle kick of spice, without being overwhelming or too messy. Something he could easily grab and enjoy, whether he was at his desk or out exploring the park.
Beyond convenience and taste, I’ve been increasingly aware of the numerous health benefits packed into nuts. Pecans, in particular, are nutritional powerhouses, rich in healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants. This made them the ideal base for a snack that’s not only delicious but also contributes positively to a balanced diet. Combining these wholesome nuts with natural honey and a touch of red pepper seemed like the perfect solution.
If your palate appreciates the sophisticated interplay of sweet and spicy flavors, this recipe is absolutely tailor-made for you. The honey creates a beautifully caramelized, sugary crust, while the ground red pepper adds an exciting, subtle warmth that lingers pleasantly. For those who prefer a purely sweet experience, the red pepper is entirely optional and can be omitted without compromising the deliciousness of the glazed pecans. It’s a versatile recipe that caters to all taste preferences!
Versatile Ways to Enjoy Your Honey Roasted Pecans
These Honey Roasted Pecans are far more than just a standalone snack. Their unique flavor profile and satisfying crunch make them an incredibly versatile ingredient, capable of elevating a multitude of dishes. Once you try them, you’ll find yourself reaching for them to enhance almost anything!
- Spinach Salad: Transform a simple spinach salad into a gourmet experience. The sweet and spicy crunch of these pecans provides a wonderful contrast to fresh greens, a tangy vinaigrette, and creamy goat cheese.
- Ice Cream Topping: Sprinkle them over your favorite vanilla or caramel ice cream for an explosion of flavor and texture. The warm notes of the pecans beautifully complement the cold, creamy dessert.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer them with Greek yogurt and fresh berries for a wholesome, satisfying breakfast or a delightful afternoon snack. They add a much-needed crunch and natural sweetness.
- Homemade Trail Mix: Elevate your trail mix game by adding these glazed pecans alongside dried fruit, seeds, and other nuts. They’re a fantastic source of energy for any adventure.
- Oatmeal & Cereal: Stir them into your morning oatmeal or sprinkle them over cold cereal for an extra boost of flavor and texture that makes breakfast anything but boring.
- Cheese & Charcuterie Boards: Impress your guests by including them on your next cheese or charcuterie board. They pair wonderfully with a variety of cheeses, fruits, and cured meats.
- Baking Ingredient: Chop them up and fold them into cookie dough, muffin batter, or sprinkle over brownies for an unexpected burst of flavor and texture.
- Holiday Gifting: Package them in pretty jars or bags for a thoughtful, homemade gift during the holidays or for special occasions. Everyone loves a delicious, edible gift!
Are you ready to create a snack that’s not only incredibly easy to make but also promises an explosion of flavor in every bite? Let’s get started on this simple, yet utterly delicious, journey!
Ingredients for Honey Glazed Pecans
You’ll be amazed at how few ingredients are needed to create such a spectacular snack. Quality ingredients are key here, as they allow the natural flavors to truly shine.
- Pecans: We typically use whole pecans for their robust texture and aesthetic appeal, but pecan pieces work just as well, especially if you plan to use them as a topping or in baking. When choosing pecans, look for fresh, plump nuts without any signs of shriveling or discoloration.
- Honey: Any good quality honey will work beautifully. Local honey often offers unique flavor notes and supports local beekeepers. The honey not only provides sweetness but also creates that beautiful, sticky glaze.
- Ground Red Pepper (Cayenne Pepper): This is where the “spicy” element comes in. Start with a dash and adjust to your preferred level of heat. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can reduce the amount or omit it entirely. For a slightly different heat, you could also use a pinch of chili flakes.
Optional Additions for Enhanced Flavor:
- Salt: A tiny pinch of sea salt can really enhance the flavors, creating a delightful sweet-and-salty combination that many find irresistible.
- Cinnamon: For a warmer, autumnal flavor profile, consider adding a dash of ground cinnamon or even a hint of nutmeg. These spices complement the honey and pecans perfectly.
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable! Feel free to experiment with other nuts like almonds, walnuts, or cashews if pecans aren’t readily available or if you simply want to try something different. The same glazing method can be applied with equally delicious results.
Essential Equipment for Making Glazed Pecans
Gathering the right tools beforehand ensures a smooth and enjoyable cooking process. You likely already have most of these items in your kitchen.
- Frying Pan/Skillet: A good quality non-stick skillet is highly recommended for this recipe. It prevents the honey from sticking and burning, making cleanup significantly easier. A medium-sized skillet (10-12 inches) is ideal for allowing the pecans to cook evenly.
- Aluminum Foil or Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheet with one of these for effortless cleanup. The sticky honey glaze can be difficult to remove directly from the baking sheet. Parchment paper is often preferred as it prevents sticking even better than foil.
- Baking Sheet (with sides): I highly recommend using a baking sheet with raised edges. This simple feature is a game-changer, especially when dealing with hot, sticky nuts. Trust me, you don’t want your precious pecans sliding off the sheet and into the oven or onto the floor (yes, I speak from clumsy experience – a lesson learned the hard way!). The sides provide a secure boundary, keeping everything neatly in place as the pecans cool.
- Heat Resistant Potholders: Safety in the kitchen is paramount. I strongly advocate for using high-quality, heat-resistant silicone potholders. A few years ago, we had a scary incident where a cloth potholder accidentally caught fire after being left on a burner we didn’t realize was on. Fortunately, we noticed the smoke quickly and managed to extinguish it ourselves. This experience reinforced the importance of using safer, non-flammable alternatives. Silicone potholders offer superior heat protection and peace of mind.
- Fork or Spatula: Essential for stirring the pecans in the skillet and for separating them on the baking sheet as they cool.
How to Make Honey Glazed Pecans: A Simple Guide
Preparing these delicious glazed pecans is a straightforward process that takes mere minutes. Follow these steps for perfect results every time:
- Combine and Cook: In a medium non-stick skillet, combine your pecans, honey, and ground red pepper (and any optional spices like cinnamon or salt, if using). Place the skillet over medium-high heat. Stir constantly to ensure the pecans are evenly coated and to prevent the honey from burning. Continue cooking for approximately 4 minutes. During this time, the honey will bubble and caramelize, coating the pecans in a beautiful, sticky glaze. You’ll notice the pecans becoming fragrant and slightly toasted.
- Spread and Cool: Immediately transfer the hot, glazed pecans onto your prepared baking sheet (lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper). Using a fork or spatula, quickly spread the pecans into a single, even layer. This is crucial for preventing them from clumping together as they cool. Work swiftly, as the honey will harden as it cools. Allow them to cool completely at room temperature. As they cool, the glaze will harden, and the pecans will become wonderfully crisp and separated.
That’s all it takes to make these incredibly easy and unbelievably tasty Candied Pecans with Honey! In just a few minutes, you’ll have a gourmet snack ready to enjoy.
Recipe Tips for Perfect Honey Glazed Pecans
- Storage: Store your cooled honey glazed pecans in an airtight container at room temperature. This will keep them fresh and crisp for up to two weeks. Avoid refrigerating, as it can cause them to soften.
- Prevent Sticking: Always use a non-stick skillet and line your baking sheet. If the pecans stick together after cooling, you can gently break them apart with your hands.
- Adjust Spice: If you’re unsure about the spice level, start with less ground red pepper and add more next time if desired. You can also sprinkle a tiny bit on half of the batch to cater to different preferences.
- Cooling: Ensure the pecans are spread thinly and cooled completely before storing. Warm pecans in an airtight container can create condensation, leading to a softer, less desirable texture.
- Gifting: These make excellent homemade gifts! Once completely cooled, pack them in decorative jars or cellophane bags. Add a ribbon and a handwritten tag for a personal touch.
Why Pecans are a Smart Snack Choice
Beyond their delicious taste, pecans offer an impressive array of health benefits, making them a wise choice for snacking. They are packed with monounsaturated fats, particularly oleic acid, which is known for its heart-healthy properties and ability to help lower bad cholesterol (LDL). Pecans are also a good source of dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and helping you feel full longer, which can aid in weight management. Furthermore, they contain a wealth of vitamins and minerals, including manganese, copper, thiamine, and zinc, all vital for various bodily functions. Rich in antioxidants, pecans help combat oxidative stress and inflammation, contributing to overall well-being. So, when you reach for these honey glazed pecans, you’re not just indulging in a treat; you’re also nourishing your body!
Honey Glazed Pecans Recipe Card
Honey Glazed Pecans Recipe
How to make delicious, perfectly glazed pecans with a hint of spice for any occasion.
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Prep Time: 2 minutes
Cook Time: 4 minutes
Total Time: 6 minutes
Servings: 7
Calories: 232 kcal
Author: Tammilee Tips
Ingredients
- 2 Cups pecans
- ¼ Cup Honey
- dash Ground Red Pepper (Cayenne)
Instructions
- Cook pecans, honey, and pepper in a skillet over med-high heat for 4 minutes, stirring constantly until coated and fragrant.
- Spread onto a greased baking sheet in a single layer, separate with a fork, and cool completely at room temperature.
Kitchen Tools
- Frying Pan/Skillet (non-stick recommended)
- Baking Sheet with sides
- Parchment Paper or Aluminum Foil
- Heat-resistant Potholders
- Fork or Spatula
Nutrition Facts
Nutrition Facts
Honey Glazed Pecans Recipe
Amount Per Serving
Calories 232 | Calories from Fat 180
% Daily Value*
Fat 20g 31%
Saturated Fat 2g 13%
Sodium 1mg 0%
Potassium 122mg 3%
Carbohydrates 14g 5%
Fiber 3g 13%
Sugar 11g 12%
Protein 3g 6%
Vitamin A 16IU 0%
Vitamin C 1mg 1%
Calcium 20mg 2%
Iron 1mg 6%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
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More Delicious Snack Recipes to Explore
If you loved this easy and flavorful pecan recipe, you’ll definitely want to check out some of our other fantastic snack ideas:
- Pumpkin Spice Pumpkin Seeds: A cozy, aromatic treat perfect for fall.
- Spicy Deviled Eggs: A classic appetizer with a zesty kick.
- Kool-Aid Pickles: An unexpected and fun flavor adventure.
- Candied Bacon: The ultimate sweet and savory indulgence.
- Candied Apple Slices: A simple, fruit-based sweet treat.
This recipe is also a star in our Road Trip Snacks Collection, offering durable and delicious options for your travels.
Always on the hunt for new recipes? Don’t forget to explore our extensive collection, including delightful copycat recipes, heavenly dessert recipes, and our incredibly convenient CrockPot Recipes.
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Recipe originally shared on March 20, 2014. Updated October 2020, November 2022.