Description
Sweet Southern pecans from Joanna Gaines sparkle with cinnamon and brown sugar, creating an irresistible seasonal treat. Crunchy, caramelized nuts deliver a mouthwatering experience that will become your favorite holiday snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups (6 ounces or 170 grams) pecan halves
Sweeteners:
- 6 tablespoons (75 grams) brown sugar
Spices and Seasonings:
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ tablespoons water
- 2 teaspoons orange zest
- Pinch cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Arrange a baking surface by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking.
- Craft a caramelized coating by combining brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, vanilla extract, water, orange zest, and a subtle hint of cayenne in a medium skillet over medium heat, stirring consistently until the mixture transforms into a bubbling, glossy sauce.
- Introduce whole pecans into the simmering sauce, gently folding to ensure each nut becomes thoroughly enrobed in the sweet and spicy glaze.
- Continue stirring the pecans for 2-3 minutes, allowing them to develop a glistening, candied exterior while maintaining vigilant observation to prevent scorching.
- Transfer the glazed pecans onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading them in a single, even layer to facilitate uniform cooling and prevent clumping.
- Allow the pecans to rest and solidify completely at room temperature, which will help the caramel coating set and create a crisp, delicate shell around each nut.
Notes
- Carefully monitor sugar caramelization to prevent burning, watching for a golden amber color that signals perfect candying.
- Spread pecans in a single layer during toasting to ensure even heat distribution and maximum flavor development.
- Select fresh, high-quality pecans with a rich, buttery texture for the most delectable candied result.
- Break apart cooled pecans gently to maintain their delicate sugar coating and preserve their attractive appearance.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for maximum crispness, enjoying within one week for peak flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Snacks, Desserts
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 270 kcal
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 90 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 19 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg