Today I’m sharing my recipe for candied pecans. This simple skillet recipe will take your praline pecans to the next level, as well as that fall fresh salad, dessert, or even side dish. Ready to elevate your cooking + baking? Use this how to make candied pecans guide to seriously level up.
A plant powered ingredient list
While your grandma’s candied pecans are soaked in butter and brown sugar, I dare you to compare them with my plant powered version. It’s got a rawkstar ingredient list, including:
- coconut oil– used as a higher heat oil, and a great dairy free option. Surprisingly, I don’t notice any kind of coconut-y taste either.
- coconut sugar– this has a lower glycemic index than regular sugar. Contains several minerals such as iron, zinc, calcium, and potassium.
- pure vanilla extract– imitation vanilla extra is exactly that, not real. Made with wood byproduct and typically loaded with sugar or corn syrup, pure vanilla extract is the way to go in this candied pecan recipe. In my book Simple Green Smoothies, you can even learn how to make your own vanilla extract.
Candied pecans ingredient swaps
Love the idea of this recipe, yet need some swaps? No problem! If you aren’t able to have pecans, then swap them with another nut or seed. Toasting times vary, depending on the nut/seed used, so just watch the skillet to ensure they are browning instead of burning. Maple sugar lately is a great swap for coconut sugar. Maple sugar is a bit sweeter in my opinion, so start with a slightly smaller amount, then add to taste.
Also, don’t be afraid to switch up the spices in this candied pecans recipe! Pumpkin spice is a great swap for just cinnamon, as well as a cardamon (start out with a pinch!).
Why I use minimally processed ingredients
I love finding better replacements for traditional foods, and love sharing them with you! For this recipe, I think the biggest less-processed swap comes from the coconut sugar. Ever heard of it? It’s starting to make its way to that prime, eye-level spot on grocery store shelves, and is a better option than traditional brown sugar/table sugar. Why? Well, it’s minimally processed (meaning it takes less chemicals and steps to make), which helps keep a good nutritional profile. Don’t get me wrong, it is still sugar, so consume it sparingly.
How to make candied pecans
You only need 1 pot for this recipe. Heat a skillet (I like using a cast iron skillet for these) over medium high heat. Then add in the coconut oil and allow to melt + coat the skillet. Carefully add the pecans to avoid oil splashing, and brown 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid over browning on a side. Once toasted, sprinkle the coconut sugar, maple syrup, and sea salt. Lower the heat to medium, then constantly stir with a spatula or wooden spoon until a thick syrup starts to form. Be careful not to let this caramelized syrup get too dark, as this will burn the pecans. Turn off the heat and add the vanilla as well as cinnamon. Stir well, then serve immediately or allow to cool for the pecans to fully become candied.
Cooling + storing
Once the candied pecans are done crisping, they can be used right away, or stored for later use. Simply spread them out piece of parchment or a silicone baking mat. Allow to cool completely, then store in an airtight container. No need to refrigerate, and these can be heated up slightly in a toaster oven or skillet just before serving if desired.
Where to use candied pecans
Now that you are a master at making these praline pecans, where can you use them? Here are a few more plant based recipes that pair perfectly with this topping:
- Pear candied pecan salad– this topping was originally created to top this fall green salad!
- Roasted sweet potato– looking for a healthier dessert to share at your next family dinner? Just roast a sweet potato (no fail roasting directions!), then top with these candied pecans.
- Vegan pumpkin pancakes– my mouth is watering just thinking about topping already delicious pumpkin pancakes with this recipe.
- Vegan yogurt parfait– turn this cashew coconut ‘yogurt’ recipe into a fall staple by swapping the fruit compote with some praline pecans.
Where do you like to use candied pecans? Drop a comment and let me know!
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Make your own candied pecans to use as a topping for salads and other recipes. Made from whole food ingredients and only takes minutes to prepare!
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons coconut oil
- 1 cup raw, shelled pecan halves
- 1 tablespoon coconut sugar
- 2 teaspoons pure maple syrup
- 1 pinch sea salt
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 pinch ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add coconut oil and allow to melt. Add the pecans.
- Lightly toast the pecans in the coconut oil for about 2-3 minutes.
- Sprinkle the coconut sugar evenly over the pecans, followed by the maple syrup, and sea salt. Lower heat to medium and continue cooking, stirring constantly with a silicone spatula or wooden spoon. A thick syrup will start to form and turn a deep amber brown and lightly coat the pecans. Be careful not to let the caramel become too dark or the nuts will taste burnt.
- Turn off heat and add vanilla and cinnamon. The caramel will bubble up and sputter a bit. Stir well.
- Transfer the pecans to a baking sheet lined with parchment or a silicon baking mat and spread into an even layer. Alternatively, generously grease pan to prevent pecans from sticking. Allow to cool completely.
- Store candied pecans at room temperature in an airtight container until ready to use.
Notes
- This recipe can be used for most types of nuts, but works particularly well with walnuts, almonds, and hazelnuts.
- Brown or white sugar can be used in place of coconut sugar.
- Honey can be substituted for maple syrup.
- For a spicy version, add a good pinch ground cayenne at the same time as the vanilla and cinnamon.
Keywords: praline pecans, candied pecans
from
https://simplegreensmoothies.com/recipes/candied-pecans?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=candied-pecans
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