Golden Glazed Pecans

Prepare to be enchanted by the sweet, aromatic allure of homemade Maple Cinnamon Glazed Pecans! These delightful nuts are deceptively simple to create, yet they deliver a complex, warm, and rich flavor profile from just a handful of everyday ingredients. Perfect for any occasion, from an elegant grazing board to a thoughtful holiday gift, these glazed pecans promise a sensational taste experience that’s impossible to resist. Once you try one, you’ll find yourself reaching for more – guaranteed!

Why You’ll Adore This Maple Cinnamon Glazed Pecan Recipe

There are countless ways to enjoy glazed pecans, but this particular recipe stands out for several compelling reasons:

1. A Symphony of Sweet and Savory: This recipe leans towards the sweeter side, featuring a luscious glaze crafted from brown sugar and pure maple syrup. However, the sweetness is beautifully balanced by the natural earthiness of the pecans and the comforting warmth of ground cinnamon. A crucial touch of salt rounds out the flavors, elevating these nuts from merely sweet to truly irresistible. It’s a flavor combination that dances on your palate, offering both indulgence and sophistication.
2. Unbelievably Easy to Make: Seriously, preparing these glazed pecans couldn’t be simpler! With minimal hands-on time and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can achieve perfect results. Forget complicated techniques or obscure ingredients; this recipe is designed for maximum flavor with minimum effort, making it ideal for busy individuals or spontaneous cravings. In a pinch, some versions can even be adapted for the microwave, though our stovetop-to-oven method ensures the best possible crunch and flavor depth.
3. Versatility for Every Occasion: Whether you’re seeking a quick, satisfying snack, an elegant addition to a cheese board, a festive party appetizer, or a charming homemade holiday gift, these maple cinnamon glazed pecans fit the bill. Their robust flavor and delightful crunch make them a crowd-pleaser for guests of all ages.

Expert Tips for Perfect Glazed Pecans Every Time

Achieving perfectly coated, crispy, and flavorful glazed pecans is easier than you think, especially with these insider tips:

• Always Use Unsalted Butter: For your glaze, unsalted butter is the way to go. This allows you to precisely control the amount of salt in your recipe, ensuring the perfect balance between sweet and savory without accidentally oversalting. Salt is crucial for enhancing flavor, but too much can overpower the delicate maple and cinnamon notes.
• Wait for the Glaze to Bubble Vigorously: Patience is a virtue, especially when it comes to the glaze! Do not add your pecans to the skillet until the glaze mixture is visibly hot and actively bubbling. If you introduce the nuts too early, the glaze won’t reach the proper temperature to caramelize and crisp up effectively. The result? Sticky, potentially soggy pecans instead of the delightful crunch you’re aiming for. A rapidly bubbling glaze indicates it’s ready to form a perfect, crisp coating.
• Embrace Customization and Creativity: This recipe is a fantastic canvas for your culinary imagination! Feel free to experiment and make it uniquely your own.
  • Nut Swaps: While pecans are delightful, try substituting them with glazed cashews or walnuts for a different texture and flavor profile. Almonds also work wonderfully.
  • Spice It Up: Instead of, or in addition to, cinnamon, consider other warm spice blends. Apple pie spice, pumpkin pie spice, or even a touch of nutmeg or cardamom can add intriguing dimensions. For a bolder kick, sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few crushed red pepper flakes – the sweet-spicy combination is unexpectedly addictive!
  • Sweetener Adjustments: For a less sweet glaze, you can slightly reduce the amount of brown sugar or maple syrup, or even replace a tablespoon of maple syrup with water to thin it slightly without adding more sweetness. Conversely, a touch more maple syrup can enhance its distinctive flavor.
  • Add a Zest: A hint of orange or lemon zest stirred into the hot glaze can brighten the entire flavor profile.
  • Extracts: A few drops of vanilla extract, almond extract, or even a hint of rum extract can add depth and complexity to your glazed nuts. Add these after the glaze comes off the heat to preserve their delicate flavors.
• Even Coating is Key: Once the pecans are in the bubbling glaze, stir them continuously for the recommended 3 minutes. This ensures every single pecan half is thoroughly coated in the delicious, sweet mixture, leading to uniform flavor and texture. A silicone spatula is ideal for this task as it helps scrape down the sides and coats the nuts efficiently without damaging them.
• Cool Completely for Crispness: After baking, it’s vital to let your glazed pecans cool completely and undisturbed on the parchment-lined baking sheet. As they cool, the glaze will harden and crisp up, giving you that satisfying crunchy texture. Rushing this step can result in a softer, chewier pecan.

Mastering the Art of Glazed Pecans: Your Step-by-Step Recipe Guide

Whether you’re crafting a light snack, a sophisticated cocktail accompaniment, or a heartfelt holiday gift, these easy maple cinnamon glazed pecans are an undeniably delicious and impressive treat. Follow this comprehensive guide to create a batch that will disappear in no time!

★★★★★ 5 from 7 votes

Irresistible Maple Cinnamon Glazed Pecans

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Whether served as a delightful snack, a sophisticated cocktail pairing, or a thoughtful holiday gift, these easy maple cinnamon glazed pecans are an absolutely delicious and highly addictive treat!

Author: Cheryl Malik

Print Recipe

Yields: 8 servings

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 2 packed tablespoons dark brown sugar
• Salt (1 pinch up to 1 teaspoon, to taste)
• 2 cups raw pecan halves

Equipment You’ll Need

• Oven
• Large baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Medium skillet (non-stick is recommended)
• Whisk
• Silicone spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Baking Setup: Preheat your oven to 350° Fahrenheit (175° Celsius). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This non-stick surface is crucial for preventing the glazed pecans from sticking as they cool and harden. Set the prepared baking sheet aside.
2. Melt the Butter: Place a medium-sized skillet (a non-stick pan works best here) on your stovetop over medium heat. Add the 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the skillet. Allow the butter to melt completely, gently swirling and tilting the pan as needed to ensure the butter evenly coats the entire surface of the skillet.
3. Create the Maple Cinnamon Glaze: Once the butter has melted, add the 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 2 tablespoons of pure maple syrup, 2 packed tablespoons of dark brown sugar, and salt (starting with a pinch, then adjusting to your taste) to the skillet. Whisk these ingredients together continuously until they are thoroughly combined and create a smooth, homogenous mixture. Continue cooking the glaze over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture becomes actively bubbly and slightly thickened. This bubbling indicates the sugar is dissolving and beginning to caramelize, which is essential for a crispy glaze.
4. Coat the Pecans: When the glaze has reached a robust bubbly stage, carefully add the 2 cups of raw pecan halves to the skillet. Continue to cook the pecans for 3 minutes, stirring or tossing them constantly and thoroughly with your silicone spatula. This ensures that every pecan half is completely coated in the warm, sticky cinnamon glaze. Don’t rush this step, as even coating is key to uniform flavor and texture.
5. Transfer to Bake: Once the pecans are uniformly coated in the luscious cinnamon glaze, transfer them from the skillet to your prepared baking sheet. Spread the pecans out over the parchment paper in a single, even layer. It’s important they aren’t clumped together, allowing them to bake evenly and crisp up properly. Place the baking sheet into your preheated oven.
6. Bake to Perfection: Bake the pecans for 5 to 10 minutes. During this time, the pecans will become wonderfully fragrant, and their color will deepen to a rich golden brown. It is crucial to check the pecans frequently during baking to prevent them from burning, as nuts can go from perfectly toasted to burnt very quickly. Look for a fragrant aroma and a beautiful golden hue.
7. Cool and Serve: When the pecans are ready, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven and set it aside to cool. Allow the glazed pecans to cool completely and undisturbed on the parchment paper. As they cool, the glaze will harden and crisp up beautifully, giving them their characteristic delightful crunch. Once fully cooled, transfer the pecans to a serving bowl or an airtight storage container. Serve them as a snack, on a salad, or as part of your favorite dessert.

Pro Tips & Recipe Notes

• Make it Vegan: To easily transform this recipe into a delicious vegan treat, simply replace the unsalted butter with an equal amount of refined coconut oil. Refined coconut oil has a neutral flavor that won’t impart a coconut taste to your pecans, ensuring the maple and cinnamon flavors shine through.
• Optimal Storage: Any leftover glazed pecans can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 1 week. To maintain their crispness, ensure they are completely cool before sealing them away. For longer storage, you can freeze them in an airtight freezer-safe bag for up to 2-3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Make-Ahead Magic: These glazed pecans are an excellent make-ahead option for entertaining or gifting. Prepare them a day or two in advance and store them properly, and they’ll be ready to impress when you are.
• Serving Suggestions: Beyond snacking, sprinkle these over salads (especially those with goat cheese or apples), yogurt parfaits, oatmeal, or even vanilla ice cream for an elevated dessert. They also make a fantastic addition to charcuterie and cheese boards, providing a sweet crunch amidst savory elements.

Nutrition Information

Serving: 1 serving | Calories: 211kcal | Protein: 2g | Fat: 21g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Total Carbs: 7g | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 4g | Net Carbs: 4g | Vitamin C: 0.3mg | Cholesterol: 8mg | Sodium: 6mg | Potassium: 115mg | Calcium: 26mg | Iron: 1mg

The number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.

Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.

To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. The result will be the weight of one serving.

© Author: Cheryl Malik

Beyond the Basics: Elevating Your Glazed Pecans

While delicious on their own, these maple cinnamon glazed pecans offer endless opportunities for culinary creativity. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:

Serving Inspirations:

• Holiday Platters: A must-have for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s gatherings. Arrange them artfully alongside other festive treats.
• Gourmet Salad Topper: Add a sweet and crunchy element to a bitter green salad with a vinaigrette dressing, especially those featuring apples, pears, or goat cheese.
• Breakfast Boost: Sprinkle over oatmeal, Greek yogurt, or even a stack of pancakes or waffles for a luxurious morning treat.
• Baking Embellishment: Chop them roughly and fold them into cookie dough, brownie batter, or muffin mix for an added layer of texture and flavor.
• Homemade Gifts: Package them in pretty jars or cellophane bags with a ribbon for a thoughtful, edible gift during the holidays or any time of year.

Flavor Variations to Experiment With:

• Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder added to the glaze creates a delightful sweet and spicy contrast.
• Citrus Brightness: Zest of an orange or lemon stirred into the warm glaze can add a refreshing, aromatic note.
• Coffee Infusion: A tiny splash of strong brewed coffee or instant espresso powder can deepen the flavor profile, especially for coffee lovers.
• Smoked Paprika: A very small amount of smoked paprika can introduce a subtle, intriguing smoky undertone that pairs surprisingly well with the sweetness.

Troubleshooting Common Glazed Pecan Issues:

• Sticky Pecans: If your pecans are sticky rather than crisp, it’s often due to the glaze not cooking long enough or not cooling completely. Ensure the glaze is bubbling vigorously before adding the nuts, and always let them cool fully on parchment paper.
• Burned Pecans: Pecans can burn quickly, especially in a hot oven. Keep a close eye on them during the baking stage, checking every couple of minutes after the 5-minute mark. Their aroma and color are key indicators of doneness.

The Wholesome Goodness of Pecans

Beyond their incredible taste, pecans offer a host of nutritional benefits, making these glazed treats a slightly better-for-you indulgence. Pecans are a rich source of healthy monounsaturated fats, which are known to support heart health. They also provide a good amount of dietary fiber, helping with digestion and satiety. Furthermore, these nuts are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin E, manganese, and copper, as well as powerful antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress in the body. So, while you’re enjoying the sweet crunch of these maple cinnamon glazed pecans, you’re also treating your body to some wholesome goodness!

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