If you’re looking for a simple recipe that delivers big flavor with minimal effort, these Easy Maple Candied Pecans are exactly what you need. Naturally sweetened with real maple syrup and warmed with cinnamon and vanilla, they roast into a glossy, crunchy snack that’s perfect for everything from salads to holiday gifts.
Why You’ll Love These Easy Maple Candied Pecans
These pecans check all the right boxes. They’re quick to make, use pantry staples, and feel special without being complicated. Because they’re sweetened with maple syrup instead of refined sugar, they have a deeper, richer flavor that tastes cozy and comforting.
They’re also incredibly versatile. Serve them as a snack, sprinkle them over yogurt or oatmeal, toss them into salads, or package them up for an easy homemade gift. Once you try them, you’ll find yourself making them again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need five simple ingredients to make this recipe:
- Raw pecan halves – Fresh, raw pecans roast up best
- Pure maple syrup – Adds natural sweetness and shine
- Ground cinnamon – Warm and aromatic
- Sea salt – Balances the sweetness
- Vanilla extract – Rounds out the flavor
That’s it—no refined sugar, no complicated steps.
How to Make Easy Maple Candied Pecans (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prep the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.
Step 2: Mix the Pecans
In a large bowl, add the pecans, maple syrup, cinnamon, sea salt, and vanilla extract. Stir until the pecans are evenly coated and glossy.
Step 3: Spread Evenly
Pour the coated pecans onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread them out into a single layer so they roast evenly.
Step 4: Roast
Bake for 20–25 minutes, stirring once halfway through. The pecans should look shiny and smell fragrant, with a lightly toasted finish.
Step 5: Cool Completely
Remove from the oven and let the pecans cool on the baking sheet. They’ll crisp up as they cool, creating that perfect candied crunch.
Tips & Variations
- Don’t overbake: Maple syrup can burn quickly, so keep an eye on the pecans during the last few minutes.
- Extra spice: Add a pinch of nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist.
- Different nuts: This recipe works well with walnuts or almonds if you’re out of pecans.
- Sweeter crunch: For a deeper caramelized flavor, roast an extra 3–5 minutes, watching closely.
- Gift-ready: Once cooled, store in a glass jar with a ribbon for an easy homemade gift.
Serving Ideas & Storage
These Easy Maple Candied Pecans are incredibly versatile. Sprinkle them over green salads, grain bowls, or roasted vegetables for added crunch. They’re also delicious on oatmeal, yogurt, pancakes, or waffles.
For storage, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to two weeks.
Easy Maple Candied Pecans (Quick & Delicious)
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
These Easy Maple Candied Pecans are naturally sweetened with pure maple syrup and warmed with cinnamon and vanilla. They roast into a glossy, crunchy snack in under 30 minutes—perfect for salads, breakfast bowls, and homemade gifts.
Ingredients
2 cups raw pecan halves
1/3 cup pure maple syrup
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp sea salt
1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, toss pecans with maple syrup, cinnamon, sea salt, and vanilla until evenly coated.
3. Spread pecans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake 20–25 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until glossy and toasted.
5. Cool completely on the pan to crisp up, then break apart and serve.
Notes
Stirring halfway helps prevent sticking and ensures even roasting.
Watch closely during the last few minutes—maple syrup can darken quickly.
Let the pecans cool fully before storing; they crisp as they cool.
Store airtight at room temperature up to 1 week (or refrigerate up to 2 weeks).
Swap walnuts for pecans if needed; add a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 197
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 73 mg
- Fat: 17 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 13 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~180 |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbs | 12g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 55mg |
Final Thoughts
These Easy Maple Candied Pecans prove that simple ingredients can create something truly special. Whether you’re making a quick snack, upgrading a salad, or putting together a thoughtful homemade gift, this recipe delivers every time. Keep a batch on hand—you’ll be surprised how quickly they disappear.