Candied Pecan Pieces are one of my favorite treats to whip up in the kitchen—they’re sweet, crunchy, and absolutely irresistible! I love making a big batch because they disappear faster than you’d think, whether it’s for snacking or tucking into other desserts.
What makes these so special is how simple the technique really is—just sugar, water, and beautiful pecans come together to create something that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. The magic happens when you caramelize that sugar just right, giving each pecan piece a glossy, golden coat that’s both crispy and slightly chewy.
I remember my grandchildren gathered around the kitchen counter, eyes wide as they watched the pecans transform in the pan—now they ask for them by name every time they visit! These little gems make wonderful gifts too, packed in a pretty jar with a homemade label for friends and family.
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Candied Pecan Pieces
Ingredients
- 0.5 cup Sugar
- 0.25 cup Water
- 1 cup Pecans
Instructions
- Line a rimmed baking sheet with a nonstick baking mat.
- Heat sugar and the water to a simmer in a heavy saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar is dissolved.
- Stop stirring; cook until syrup comes to a boil, washing down sides of pan with a wet pastry brush to prevent crystals from forming.
- Boil, gently swirling pan occasionally, until mixture is light amber.
- Remove from heat.
- Stir in pecans with a wooden spoon to coat completely.
- Immediately remove pecans from caramel; spread in a single layer on prepared baking sheet.
- Let cool completely before using or storing; break into small pieces, if necessary.
