If you’re looking for a delicious and easy treat, you must try making Air Fryer candied pecans. This delightful snack combines the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch, and using an air fryer makes the process a breeze. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
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Back in the day, my grandmother would spend hours over the stove, carefully stirring this family-favorite treat until perfection. Today, with our busy schedules in mind, I’ve adapted her cherished recipe for the Air Fryer. Whenever I prepare it, the warm, sugary aroma fills the kitchen, bringing back fond memories of holiday gatherings and cozy afternoons.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it’s quick and easy; you can have your candied pecans ready in less than 30 minutes. Using an Air Fryer means less mess and healthier snacking by reducing the amount of oil typically required. Plus, these candied pecans are versatile enough to be added to salads, desserts, or enjoyed right out of the bowl.
Ingredients Notes
To make this dish, you’ll need fresh pecans, Brown Sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. You can find high-quality pecans at your local grocery store or specialty nut shops. Consider substituting honey for sugar if you prefer a natural sweetener. If you’re out of nutmeg, you can use allspice as an alternative.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your Air Fryer to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, line the basket with a piece of parchment paper to avoid sticking.
Step 2
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Add the pecans and toss until they are well coated with the sugar mixture.
Step 3
Spread the pecans evenly in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer for even cooking.
Step 4
Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the process to ensure the pecans cook uniformly and attain a golden-brown color.
Step 5
Remove the pecans from the air fryer and allow them to cool on a piece of parchment paper. They’ll crisp up as they cool.
Storage Options
Store any leftover candied pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For extended freshness, consider refrigerating them for up to three weeks. If you’d like to freeze them, place them in a freezer-safe bag, squeezing out excess air, and they will last for up to three months. To reheat, simply pop them in the air fryer at 300°F for about 5 minutes.
Variations & Substitutions
For a savory twist, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper to the sugar mixture for a spicy kick. For dietary adjustments, substitute sugar with maple syrup or try using walnuts instead of pecans for a different nutty flavor. Omit salt or use a low-sodium variant for a heart-healthy option.
Serving Suggestions
Apart from being a delightful standalone snack, these candied pecans make an excellent topping for oatmeal, Greek yogurt, or pancakes. They can also be crushed and used as a crunchy coating for chicken tenders for an unexpected flavor contrast. Consider serving them in a decorative jar as a thoughtful homemade gift for special occasions.
frequently asked questions
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, this recipe is quite versatile! Walnuts and almonds work particularly well as substitutes. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different nuts can vary in size and texture, impacting how long they need to cook.
Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?
Absolutely. While the air fryer is a convenient option, you can achieve similar results by using a conventional oven. Simply spread the coated pecans on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 300°F (150°C) for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
How do I prevent the pecans from clumping together?
To avoid clumping, give the pecans a good shake in the air fryer basket halfway through the cooking process. If you’re baking them in the oven, use a spatula to stir the pecans gently during cooking. This will ensure each pecan is evenly coated and cooked to perfection.
Air Fryer Candied Pecans
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups pecan halves use fresh pecans for best flavor
- 1 cup brown sugar packed
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon ground
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg white large egg white beaten
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the air fryer to 300°F (150°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, and salt.
- Add the pecans and egg white into the sugar mixture, stir until pecans are well coated.
- Spread coated pecans in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Cook in the air fryer for 15 minutes, shaking the basket every 5 minutes for even cooking.
