Hands down, my hubby’s fave treat this time of year!

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Slow Cooker Candied Pecans are a delightful treat that perfectly marries sweetness with the natural richness of pecans.
Originating from the Southern United States, this dish has become a staple in many homes, especially during the fall and winter months when pecans are harvested.
Making candied pecans in a slow cooker is not only convenient but also allows the flavors to develop deeply and thoroughly, resulting in a wonderfully aromatic snack.
Whether you’re prepping them for a holiday gathering or simply want a sweet and crunchy treat at home, this recipe is as rewarding as it is easy.
Slow Cooker Candied Pecans make an excellent addition to a charcuterie board, perfectly balancing out savory cheeses and cured meats with their sweet crunch.
They can also be sprinkled over salads for added texture or served as a scrumptious topping on vanilla ice cream.
If you’re feeling generous, they also make a thoughtful homemade gift when packaged in a lovely jar.
Slow Cooker Candied Pecans
Servings: 8
Ingredients
1 pound of pecan halves
1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 egg white
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup water
Directions
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, lightly beat the egg white and vanilla extract until foamy.
3. Add the pecan halves to the egg white mixture, stirring to ensure each nut is evenly coated.
4. Add the pecans into the sugar mixture, tossing until all the pecans are evenly coated with the sugar and spice blend.
5. Lightly grease your slow cooker with non-stick spray or a light coating of oil.
6. Place the coated pecans in the slow cooker.
7. Cook on low for 3 hours, stirring every 20 minutes to prevent burning and ensure even coating.
8. In the last hour of cooking, add the water and continue to stir every 20 minutes. This will help form the sugar coating.
9. Once cooked, spread the pecans on a baking sheet to cool completely before serving.
Variations & Tips
For a slightly spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sugar mixture.
If you prefer a more intense flavor, consider adding a dash of nutmeg or allspice.
For a healthier twist, substitute half the sugar with a sugar substitute like coconut sugar or a blend of stevia.
You can also experiment with different nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, using the same spiced glaze.

Storage Tips

Room Temperature:

Store in an airtight container or sealed glass jar.

 

 

Keep in a cool, dry place away from heat or humidity.

Stays fresh for up to 2 weeks.

Refrigerator:

 

 

 

Not necessary unless your kitchen is warm or humid.

If refrigerated, pecans can last 3–4 weeks, but may lose some crunch. Allow to come to room temp before serving.

 

 

Freezer:

Perfect for long-term storage!

Place cooled pecans in a freezer-safe zip-top bag or airtight container.

 

 

Freeze for up to 2–3 months.

To serve, thaw at room temperature for 30–60 minutes.

 

 

 

Pro Tip:
For gift-giving, package them in mason jars, cellophane bags, or tins with a festive ribbon.

 

 

Just make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing to avoid condensation and sogginess.

 

 

Flavor Variations

1. Spiced Heat

Add ¼ tsp cayenne pepper or chipotle powder to the sugar mix for a sweet-and-spicy kick.

2. Warm Chai Blend

Mix in ½ tsp each of cardamom and nutmeg, plus a pinch of cloves for a cozy chai-inspired twist.

 

 

 

3. Pumpkin Spice Pecans

Sub the cinnamon with pumpkin pie spice for a festive fall flavor.

 

 

4. Vanilla Maple Glaze

Replace white sugar with ½ cup maple syrup and omit the water. Add an extra dash of vanilla for a richer glaze.

 

 

5. Chocolate-Dipped Candied Pecans

Once cooled, dip the bottom of each pecan in melted dark or white chocolate, then let set on wax paper.

 

 

Tips for Best Results

Stir consistently: Every 20 minutes is key—this prevents scorching and ensures even coating.

Don’t skip the water: Adding water in the last hour helps form that classic crunchy candy shell.

 

 

 

Use fresh pecans: Stale or rancid nuts will ruin the flavor. Taste-test before starting!

Let cool completely: They crisp up as they cool—don’t store while warm or they may get sticky.

 

 

 

Double the batch for gifts: These store well and make perfect holiday treats in jars or gift bags.

 

 

 

Nutrition Per Serving (1/8 of recipe):

Calories: ~310

Total Fat: 26g

 

 

Saturated Fat: 2g

Cholesterol: 0mg

 

 

Sodium: 75mg

Total Carbohydrates: 20g

 

 

Sugars: 18g

Dietary Fiber: 3g

 

 

Protein: 3g

Note:

Pecans are naturally high in healthy fats, making them calorie-dense but nutritious.

 

 

Adjustments like using less sugar or swapping in sugar alternatives will reduce sugar and calories.

 

 

 

Adding chocolate or other mix-ins will increase the totals accordingly.

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