Spiced Maple Pecans Recipe

If you’re searching for a snack that perfectly balances sweet, warm spices, and satisfying crunch, look no further than this Spiced Maple Pecans Recipe. These candied pecans are infused with a harmonious blend of cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and cardamom, all glazed in pure maple syrup, creating an irresistibly fragrant and flavorful treat. Whether you enjoy them straight from the jar or sprinkle them over salads and desserts, this recipe elevates everyday pecans into something truly special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering just a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients, this Spiced Maple Pecans Recipe is a breeze to prepare. Each element plays a vital role: the pecan halves provide a buttery crunch, the maple syrup offers natural sweetness and a beautiful glaze, while the warming spices bring depth and complexity to every bite.

• 3 cups pecan halves: Look for fresh, raw pecans for the best crunch and flavor.
• ⅓ cup pure maple syrup: Use real maple syrup to get that rich sweetness and luscious coating.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warm, familiar spice that pairs perfectly with nuts.
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger: Introduces a little zing and earthiness that enlivens the flavor.
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves: Provides a deeply aromatic, slightly sweet spiciness.
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Offers a subtle nuttiness and warmth to the mix.
• ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom: Brings a fragrant, citrusy note that makes the pecans more intriguing.
• Flaky sea salt for finishing: A pinch at the end enhances all the other flavors beautifully.

How to Make Spiced Maple Pecans Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by heating your oven to 350º F. This temperature is perfect for toasting the pecans gently, allowing the maple syrup and spices to caramelize without burning.

Step 2: Coat the Pecans in Maple Syrup

Place the pecan halves into a large mixing bowl, then drizzle the maple syrup over them. Stir well to ensure every pecan is lightly coated with that glossy sweetness—it’s what brings the magic to this recipe.

Step 3: Add the Spices

Sprinkle in the ground cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and cardamom. Toss everything together until the pecans are evenly covered in the fragrant spice blend. This step is what transforms simple nuts into an irresistible treat!

Step 4: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a snap. Evenly spread the spiced pecans in a single layer so they roast uniformly.

Step 5: Bake and Stir

Place the pecans in the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. Every five minutes, give them a gentle stir to ensure they toast evenly and absorb the flavors beautifully. You’ll start to smell the spices mingling with the toasted nuts—such an inviting aroma!

Step 6: Cool and Separate

Once toasted, let the pecans cool completely on the baking sheet. They might stick together, so gently break them apart into bite-sized clusters. Cooling lets the glaze set and ensures that wonderful crunchy texture.

How to Serve Spiced Maple Pecans Recipe

Garnishes

A finishing sprinkle of flaky sea salt right after baking brings out the sweetness and spices even more. These crunchy gems look stunning atop creamy yogurt, vibrant salads, or even on a cheese platter—the salty-sweet contrast is irresistible.

Side Dishes

Serve these spiced maple pecans alongside roasted veggies or a winter squash mash to add a delightful crunch and a hint of sweetness. They also brighten holiday tables when paired with cranberry sauce or a fresh green salad tossed with vinaigrette.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, toss the pecans with dried fruit and chocolate chunks for a homemade trail mix. Or, sprinkle them over oatmeal or ice cream to add texture and spice. The possibilities are endless for dressing up your snacks and meals with this Spiced Maple Pecans Recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once completely cooled, store your spiced maple pecans in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and crunchy for up to two weeks, making them perfect to keep on hand for quick snacking or last-minute entertaining.

Freezing

If you want to keep them longer, freeze the cooled pecans in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature—no need to reheat unless you want to refresh their crispness.

Reheating

For that freshly baked vibe, warm the pecans in a 300º F oven for 5 minutes to revive their crunch and enhance the aromas. Just be sure to keep an eye on them so they don’t burn.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or cashews work wonderfully with this spice and maple syrup blend. Just adjust the roasting time slightly depending on the nut’s size and density.

Is it necessary to use pure maple syrup?

Using pure maple syrup gives the pecans a richer flavor and natural sweetness that complements the spices beautifully. However, you can substitute with honey or agave syrup if needed, though the flavor will be slightly different.

How spicy is this Spiced Maple Pecans Recipe?

This recipe leans into warm, aromatic spices rather than heat. The spices like cinnamon and cardamom add complexity without being spicy-hot, making it suitable for all palates.

Can I make these pecans gluten-free and vegan?

Yes! The recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegan as long as you use pure maple syrup and ensure your spices are free from any additives.

What are some ways to use leftover spiced pecans?

Leftovers are perfect for sprinkling over salads, yogurt, oatmeal, or even crushed into baked goods for added texture and flavor. They also make a fantastic topping for ice cream or warm desserts.

Final Thoughts

This Spiced Maple Pecans Recipe is one of those little treasures that quickly becomes a household favorite. Easy to prepare, bursting with cozy flavors, and versatile enough to dress up snacks and meals, it’s a delicious way to bring a touch of warmth and sweetness to your kitchen. Give it a try—you might just find yourself reaching for these spiced pecans every chance you get!

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