Stovetop Maple Candied Pecans (or Mixed Nuts)

When it comes to easy, sweet snacks that feel indulgent yet effortless, these Stovetop Maple Candied Pecans (or Mixed Nuts) are unbeatable. With their rich maple flavor, a warm hint of cinnamon, and a light crunch, they’re the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a simple snack, a topping for your favorite desserts, or a holiday gift idea, this recipe is here to delight!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to make these candied nuts!

• Quick & Easy: This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes.
• Naturally Sweetened: Made with pure maple syrup—no refined sugar needed.
• Customizable: Use pecans, cashews, almonds, or any nut mix you prefer.
• Perfect for Gifting: Pack these into jars with a festive ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift.
• Endlessly Versatile: Sprinkle them on ice cream, toss them into salads, or snack on them as is.

Love creating festive treats? Don’t miss our Italian Anise Cookies and Polar Bear Cookies—they’re perfect for the holiday season!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these sweet and salty nuts:

• 4 cups pecan halves (or any mixture of raw nuts like cashews or almonds)
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup for natural sweetness
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract to deepen the flavor
• 1 1/2 tablespoons cinnamon for a warm, spicy kick
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt to balance the sweetness

Looking for more holiday-ready dessert ideas? Check out this Sugar Cookie Cheesecake—it’s creamy, festive, and guaranteed to impress!

Tools You’ll Need

• A medium-sized skillet
• A wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• Parchment paper for cooling the nuts
• An airtight container for storage

How to Make Stovetop Maple Candied Pecans

Follow these simple steps to make these delightful candied nuts:

1. Heat the Maple Base:
   In a skillet over medium heat, stir together the maple syrup, vanilla, and sea salt. Allow it to warm for about 1 minute.
2. Add the Nuts:
   Toss in your nuts of choice and stir constantly to coat them evenly in the syrup mixture.
3. Add Cinnamon:
   Sprinkle the cinnamon over the nuts and continue stirring to coat them thoroughly.
4. Cook Until Sticky:
   Let the maple syrup mixture come to a boil, stirring continuously. Cook for 5–7 minutes until the syrup thickens and is fully absorbed by the nuts.
5. Cool & Enjoy:
   Remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the nuts onto a parchment-lined surface. Spread them out evenly to cool. Optional: sprinkle a cinnamon-sugar mix over the nuts for extra sweetness.
6. Store:
   Once cooled, break apart the nuts and store them in an airtight container for up to two weeks.

Tips for Perfect Maple Candied Nuts

• Stir Constantly: This prevents the nuts from burning and ensures even coating.
• Cook Until Syrup is Absorbed: If there’s any liquid left in the skillet, the nuts may turn sticky instead of crisp.
• Skip the Cinnamon: If you prefer plain maple flavor, omit the cinnamon for a simpler version.

How to Serve Maple Candied Pecans

These versatile nuts can be enjoyed in so many ways:

• Sprinkle over a fresh green salad with cranberries and goat cheese.
• Use them as a crunchy topping for yogurt or ice cream.
• Add them to a charcuterie board for a sweet-and-savory twist.
• Eat them straight from the jar for a satisfying snack.

Storage Instructions

Store your candied nuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze them in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?
Yes, but the flavor will be different. Honey has a distinct taste and may burn more easily, so keep the heat lower.

Why are my nuts sticky?
Sticky nuts usually mean the syrup wasn’t cooked long enough. Make sure the syrup is fully absorbed and the nuts are dry before removing them from the heat.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just use a larger skillet to ensure the nuts cook evenly.

Final Thoughts

These Stovetop Maple Candied Pecans (or Mixed Nuts) are a quick, easy, and endlessly versatile recipe you’ll want to keep in your repertoire. With just a few simple ingredients and a skillet, you can whip up a batch of sweet, crunchy nuts perfect for snacking, gifting, or enhancing your favorite dishes.

Don’t forget to pin this recipe on Pinterest and share your creations! We’d love to see your photos and hear your thoughts in the comments below.

Looking for more inspiration? Try our Italian Anise Cookies, Polar Bear Cookies, or the indulgent Sugar Cookie Cheesecake.

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