Candied Spiced Pecans

These candied spiced pecans have a beautiful mix of spices that is lightly offset by a hint of sweetness.  A great snack to make and freeze!

Candied Spiced Pecans

I used to make these delicious candied spiced pecans way back in the day.  The great thing about these baked pecans is that you can use regular sugar or you can use a low carb sweetener and they easily satisfy a lot of eating lifestyles! The keto version of these is just as yummy as the regular version.

The recipe was inspired by my good friend. We would make these candied spiced pecans, along with a delicious salad dressing and make up a delightful salad (and I’m NOT a salad fan).  I will admit that I would often make the “salad” simply so I could make the pecans and snack on them for days!

My hubby had never had these before and so I gave him one to try.  He took one, chewed, swallowed, looked at me, and asked where the rest were!  He grabbed the bag and said, “This is my new favorite snack”. Boom!  Mission accomplished!

Tools Needed

Hand Beaters – Unless you can whisk like the wind, I recommend using hand beaters!  I just simply can’t whip egg whites fast enough to get it foamy by hand.

Baking Sheet –  This is the best way to bake pecans.  Something large and flat – well, a baking sheet of course!

Parchment Paper – Let’s talk cleanup!  Parchment paper will make the cleanup pretty much effortless.  I’m all for easy cleanup.

Candied Spiced Pecan Flavors

Spice: Paprika and Cayenne are the heavy hitters here, mainly paprika.  The Cayenne is just a hint, but just enough.  

Sweet: Sugar (or low can sweetener) of course!  You don’t need much and I think sometimes people overdo the sweet factor when trying to make these types of sweet and spicy baked pecans.  A small amount is perfect.

How to Make Candied Spiced Pecans?

Like most of my recipes, it is EASY!  These almost make themselves!

You whip up the egg white with some salt, add the spices, ACV and sweetener. Then you fold in the pecans and butter.  

Slap these beauties onto a prepared baking sheet and BAKE! So simple!

Can I Freeze the Pecans?

Yes you can freeze these candied spiced pecans!  I usually split the batch and put part into the fridge and part into the freezer.

This recipe makes 2 cups so there is plenty!  I will often vacuum-seal 1 cup of them to pull out at a later date.  

What to Eat With Candied Spiced Pecans

Candied baked pecans are a crowd favorite snack! They can be enjoyed on their own or added to baked goods, salads, and other dishes. These delicious and sweet treats are surprisingly easy to make at home, but what should you pair them with to create the perfect snack or dish?

Salads

Candied baked pecans are a perfect addition to any salad. The sweetness of the pecans pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of leafy greens and dressings. Try adding candied baked pecans to a salad of spinach, goat cheese, and cranberries. Or, pair them with arugula, apples, and a balsamic vinaigrette for a flavorful and healthy salad option.

Cheese plates

Candied baked pecans are also a great addition to cheese plates. They pair well with both soft and hard cheeses, such as goat cheese, brie, and aged cheddar. Arrange a selection of nuts, cheeses, and crackers on a platter and add a handful of candied baked pecans for a delicious and easy appetizer.

Baked goods

Candied baked pecans can also be added to baked goods for a sweet and crunchy twist. Try adding them to muffins or banana bread for an extra layer of flavor and texture. Or, add them to chocolate chip cookies for a decadent and savory treat.

Ice cream

Another delicious pairing for candied baked pecans is ice cream. The sweetness of the pecans pairs perfectly with vanilla or caramel ice cream. Add a handful of candied baked pecans on top of a scoop of ice cream for a delicious and easy dessert option.

Snacks

Of course, candied baked pecans can be enjoyed on their own as a delicious snack. Keep a jar of candied baked pecans on hand for a quick and easy snack option. You can also add them to trail mix for a healthy and delicious snack to grab and go!