Stovetop Candied Pecans

Stovetop candied pecans are a sweet snack you can make with only 2 ingredients in under 10 minutes. Using a skillet, you can quickly cook up a batch without the need for a candy thermometer. Add them to salads, baked goods, charcuterie boards, or just eat them plain!

Have I mentioned that we have AMAZING neighbors? They let us build snow forts in their backyard, taught us how to play poker, and are always bringing over delicious foods – fresh corn, pesto, and even pecans that came all the way from Texas. I could eat pecans by themselves all day (or any nut really :)), but for a really special treat it’s fun to candy them.

When I hear the word “candied” in a recipe, it immediately makes me think “difficult.” After all, doesn’t the process normally involve a candy thermometer, boiling sugar, butter that’s close too burning, and a sticky mess that is almost impossible to completely get off the stove?

While that may be the case for some candy recipes, thankfully it’s not when you’re making candied pecans. You only need 2 ingredients, about 10 minutes, and a good skillet. No candy thermometer required. You’ll be so surprised at how easy and delicious this recipe is.

One of the great things about making your own candied pecans is that they’re naturally free of common allergies such as gluten and dairy. (If you’re allergic to pecans though, I can’t really help you there.) Because of this, candied pecans make a great snack for when you’re entertaining guests with allergies. You could also package them in a cute bag for as a gift. If you’re anything like me, you’ll probably want to eat the whole batch, but finding a friend to share them with will make them even sweeter. 🙂

How long can you keep candied pecans?

Candied pecans will last at room temperature in an air-tight container for about 1 week. If you store them in the fridge though, they should last 2-3 weeks because the cooler temperature keeps the sugar from getting sticky and melty. You can also freeze candied pecans for up to 2 months in an air-tight container or zip-lock bag.

Ways to use candied pecans

Candied pecans are so versatile! You can use them in a variety of sweet or savory dishes. Here are a few ideas:

• Sprinkle them over top of a salad for a fun crunch.
• Add them to a charcuterie board for a sweet touch.
• Chop them up and sprinkle over muffins or coffee cake before baking.
• Use them to top pancakes, waffles, or French toast.
• Mix in to your favorite oatmeal.
• Chop them up and add them to chocolate chip cookies or shortbread.
• Mix in with ice cream or brownie batter – they work especially well with chocolate. 🙂

Candied pecans also make excellent gifts! Package them in a cute plastic bag and tie with a ribbon for a pretty presentation.

Tips for making stovetop candied pecans

• The most important part in making these pecans is not to burn the sugar! It will turn pretty dark near the end, but if at any time you smell something burning, take the pecans off the stove right away. You want them to be caramelized, not crisped. 🙂
• For the pictures, I used a wooden spoon to make these pecans, however, a rubber spatula definitely makes for easier clean up. The brown sugar and butter mixture can be quite hard to get off a wooden spoon.
• Feel free to add different spices to the pecans for fun flavors. Cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a teeny tiny bit of paprika or red pepper would all be great ways to elevate the taste of these candied pecans.
• Store the pecans in an air-tight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Tools you will need

You’ll need a large skillet, spatula or wooden spoon, and a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

Ingredients you will need

You only need 2 main ingredients to make these pecans, so simple right?

• 3 cups raw or toasted pecans – If you choose to use toasted, make sure the pecans are only lightly toasted, or else they will get a bit burnt on the stove.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar – White sugar would also work in a pinch.
• 2 tbsp water
• salt for sprinkling – optional, but it adds a little extra flavor

How to make stovetop candied pecans

In a large skillet mix together the brown sugar and water over medium heat. After 2-3 minutes, the sugar should be bubbling vigorously.

At this point, add the pecans to the pan and stir with a spatula to coat them in the sugar.

Cook the pecans, stirring occasionally, for 3-4 minutes until most of the sugar-water has evaporated. Be careful not to burn the sugar though!

Remove the pecans from the heat and spread them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

Sprinkle the pecans with salt if you like and let them cool. Break apart any pecans that stuck together and store in an air-tight container for up to a week at room temperature.

Looking for more easy snack ideas?

If so, make sure you check out the Kitchen Counter for other simple snack recipes. Here are a few of my favorites:

• Sourdough Cheese Crackers
• Sourdough Discard Crackers
• Carrot Hummus
• Peanut Butter Protein Cookies
• 15 Minute Banana Bites
• Easy Zucchini Bites

If you make these this recipe and enjoy it, let me know in the comments section below! You can also tag me on instagram @oldfashionedinspiration with a picture of your creation.