Crispy Sweet Maple Glazed Pecans

This irresistible air fryer candied pecan recipe transforms ordinary nuts into a sweet, crunchy treat that's perfect for snacking, salad toppings, or homemade gifts. The air fryer method creates that classic candied coating in a fraction of the time compared to oven baking, with less mess and more consistent results.

I discovered this technique during the holiday season when my oven was occupied with other dishes. Now it's become my go to method year round whenever I need a quick batch of candied nuts for unexpected guests or last minute gifts.

Ingredients

• 2 cups pecan halves: fresh pecans provide the best flavor and crunch
• 2 tablespoons melted butter: creates the foundation for the candy coating to adhere
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup: adds depth and complexity to the sweetness
• 1 large egg white: the secret to a light and crispy coating that sticks perfectly
• 1/2 cup brown sugar: provides a rich molasses flavor
• 2 tablespoons white sugar: helps create the perfect crystalline exterior
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: adds warmth and complexity
• Salt to taste: enhances all the flavors and creates the perfect sweet salty balance

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the pecans:

Place pecan halves in a medium bowl. This recipe works best with halves rather than pieces as they provide more surface area for the candy coating and a more impressive presentation.

Create the base coating:

Heat butter and maple syrup until completely melted either in microwave for about 30 seconds or on stovetop over low heat. Pour this warm mixture over the pecans and stir thoroughly until every pecan is glistening with the mixture. The warm butter helps the sugars adhere better to the nuts.

Whip the egg white:

In a separate bowl using a whisk or hand mixer beat the egg white until it becomes frothy and just barely holds soft peaks. The egg white should look like a cloud with tiny bubbles throughout not stiff or dry. This usually takes about 1 to 2 minutes of vigorous whisking.

Combine egg white with pecans:

Gently fold the frothy egg white into the butter coated pecans using a rubber spatula. Continue folding until all pecans are evenly coated with no visible pools of egg white. This creates the perfect sticky base for the sugar mixture to adhere to.

Add the sugar coating:

Mix brown sugar white sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl until completely combined with no lumps. Sprinkle this mixture over the coated pecans and fold gently until every pecan is thoroughly covered in the sugar mixture. The coating should appear even and thick.

Preheat the air fryer:

Set your air fryer to 350°F and allow it to preheat for 4 minutes. Never place parchment paper in during preheating as it can fly up into the heating element causing a fire hazard.

Arrange and cook the pecans:

Line the preheated air fryer basket with parchment paper and carefully arrange the coated pecans in a single layer. If your air fryer is small work in batches rather than overcrowding. Cook at 350°F for 5 to 7 minutes stirring every 2 minutes to ensure even cooking.

Cool and season:

Immediately transfer the hot candied pecans to a parchment lined baking sheet. Sprinkle with salt while still hot so it adheres properly. Allow to cool completely for at least 30 minutes during which time they will continue to harden and become more crisp.

Store properly:

Once fully cooled transfer the candied pecans to an airtight container. They will maintain their crunch and flavor for up to four weeks at room temperature.

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The first time I made these was for a holiday party and they vanished within minutes. The secret is definitely in the egg white coating which creates that irresistible crispy sweet shell around each pecan. My daughter now requests these to top her morning oatmeal which makes breakfast feel like a special treat.

Perfect Pairings

These candied pecans elevate almost any dish they touch. Sprinkle them over vanilla ice cream for instant texture and flavor contrast. Add them to a green salad with goat cheese and dried cranberries for a restaurant quality side dish. They also pair beautifully with a cheese board, especially alongside aged cheddar or creamy brie where the sweet crunch complements the rich cheese.

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Troubleshooting Tips

If your pecans come out still sticky after cooling they likely needed more time in the air fryer. Return them for another 1 to 2 minutes checking frequently to prevent burning. For extra crunch make sure your egg white is properly frothed but not overbeaten. If you notice uneven cooking in your air fryer be sure to stir more frequently during the cooking process about every minute.

Flavor Variations

This basic recipe becomes a canvas for countless variations. For a spicy twist add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the sugar mixture creating a delicious sweet heat profile. For holiday flair try adding 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg and a pinch of cloves to the cinnamon. Replace the cinnamon with pumpkin pie spice in fall for a seasonal treat. For a more complex flavor consider adding 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the butter mixture.

Storage Wisdom

While these pecans will technically last four weeks in an airtight container at room temperature they rarely make it that long in my household. For gifting consider mason jars with decorative labels. Avoid refrigerating as this can introduce unwanted moisture and soften the candy coating. If you need to make them far in advance they freeze beautifully for up to three months simply thaw at room temperature for about an hour before serving.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I substitute other nuts for the pecans?

Yes, you can substitute walnuts, almonds, or cashews for the pecans. Keep in mind that different nuts may require slightly different cooking times, so watch them closely to prevent burning.

→ Why is the egg white necessary?

The egg white creates a light, frothy coating that helps the sugar mixture adhere evenly to the nuts, resulting in a perfect crispy, candied exterior after cooking.

→ How can I tell when the nuts are done cooking?

The nuts are done when they appear dry but slightly sticky, and no liquid remains in the air fryer basket. They will continue to harden and crisp up as they cool on the parchment paper.

→ Can I make these nuts with less sugar?

Yes, you can reduce the sugar amounts by up to half. The nuts won't be quite as candied but will still have a delicious sweet coating. You could also increase the cinnamon for more flavor without added sweetness.

→ What's the best way to serve candied pecans?

Candied pecans make an excellent snack on their own, but they also shine as toppings for salads, ice cream, yogurt, or oatmeal. They're also perfect for holiday gift-giving when packaged in decorative jars or bags.

→ Can I make these without an air fryer?

Absolutely! You can bake the coated pecans on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a conventional oven at 300°F for about 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through. They'll still be delicious!