These Slow Cooker Candied Cinnamon Pecans are the perfect sweet and crunchy snack for the holiday season or any time of the year. Coated in a delightful mixture of cinnamon and sugar, these pecans are slowly cooked to perfection, making your house smell amazing in the process. They’re perfect for gifting, adding to salads, or just enjoying by the handful. Let’s get started on this easy, delicious recipe!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients for Slow Cooker Candied Cinnamon Pecans
- Instructions for Slow Cooker Candied Cinnamon Pecans
- Tips & Notes
- Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Candied Cinnamon Pecans
- 1 pound pecan halves
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg white
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions for Slow Cooker Candied Cinnamon Pecans
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
- Lightly spray your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Sugars and Spices
- In a medium bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Coat the Pecans
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk the egg white and vanilla extract until frothy.
- Add the pecan halves to the egg white mixture and stir until they are evenly coated.
- Pour the sugar mixture over the pecans and stir until all the pecans are well coated with the sugar and cinnamon mixture.
Step 4: Cook the Pecans
- Transfer the coated pecans to the prepared slow cooker.
- Cook on low heat for 3 hours, stirring every 30 minutes to ensure the pecans cook evenly and do not stick.
- During the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the water and stir well. This will help create a crunchy coating on the pecans.
Step 5: Cool and Store
- Once the pecans are done, spread them out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to cool completely.
- Store the cooled pecans in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Tips & Notes
- Stir Frequently: Stirring the pecans every 30 minutes is crucial to prevent burning and ensure even coating.
- Use Fresh Pecans: Make sure to use fresh pecan halves for the best flavor. Stale nuts can affect the overall taste of the candied pecans.
- Cooling is Important: Let the pecans cool completely before storing them to ensure they develop their crunchy texture.
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Spicy Candied Pecans: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the sugar mixture for a sweet and spicy version.
- Vanilla Cinnamon Almonds: Replace the pecans with almonds for a similar treat with a slightly different flavor profile.
- Maple Flavor: Substitute 1/4 cup of the granulated sugar with maple sugar for a subtle maple twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use other types of nuts?
Absolutely! You can use almonds, walnuts, or even cashews in place of pecans. The cooking process will remain the same.
2. How do I store these candied pecans?
Store the cooled pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. They also make a great freezer snack—store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
3. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe if you have a larger slow cooker. Just make sure to stir frequently to ensure even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
- Holiday Gift: Package these candied pecans in a decorative jar or bag for a sweet homemade holiday gift.
- Salad Topping: Add these pecans to your favorite salads for a sweet and crunchy topping.
- Ice Cream Topping: Sprinkle the candied pecans over a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an easy dessert.
These Slow Cooker Candied Cinnamon Pecans are an easy, flavorful treat that’s perfect for the holidays or any time you need a sweet, crunchy snack. With the warm spices of cinnamon and the rich flavor of toasted pecans, they’re sure to be a hit with friends and family. Whether you’re giving them as gifts, adding them to salads, or just enjoying them on their own, these pecans are a delightful addition to any occasion.
Happy cooking, and enjoy every crunchy bite!
