Maple Glazed Pecans: The Sweet, Crunchy Snack You’ll Crave All Day
Few things can rival the satisfying crunch and caramelized sweetness of maple glazed pecans. Imagine perfectly toasted pecans coated in warm, golden maple syrup — the kind that clings to your fingers just enough to make you reach for another handful. They’re sweet but not cloying, rich but not heavy, and the subtle hint of salt balances everything beautifully.
What makes these pecans so irresistible is their simplicity. They require just a few wholesome ingredients — real maple syrup, pecans, and a touch of seasoning — yet the result tastes like something you’d find in a gourmet shop. Whether you’re topping your morning oatmeal, tossing them into a salad, or snacking straight from the jar, maple glazed pecans add a touch of indulgence to everyday eating.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s everything you need to make these crunchy, golden pecans. Each ingredient adds to the flavor balance — from the natural sweetness of maple syrup to the buttery richness of the nuts.
| Ingredient | Amount | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Raw pecan halves | 2 cups (200g) | 1400 |
| Pure maple syrup | 1/3 cup (80ml) | 260 |
| Coconut oil or butter | 1 tbsp (14g) | 120 |
| Ground cinnamon (optional) | 1/2 tsp | 3 |
| Sea salt | 1/4 tsp | 0 |
| Vanilla extract (optional) | 1/2 tsp | 6 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1: Preheat the oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2: Mix the glaze
In a medium bowl, combine maple syrup, melted coconut oil (or butter), cinnamon, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth and glossy.
3: Coat the pecans
Add the pecan halves to the bowl and toss well until every nut is evenly coated in the maple mixture.
4: Bake until golden
Spread the pecans in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake for 12–15 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even caramelization. Keep a close eye on them — pecans can go from golden to burnt quickly.
5: Cool and crisp up
Remove from the oven and let the pecans cool completely on the baking sheet. As they cool, the glaze will harden into that irresistible glossy, crunchy coating.
6: Store properly
Once cooled, transfer the pecans to an airtight jar or container. They’ll stay fresh at room temperature for up to two weeks — though they rarely last that long!
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Add spice: For a kick of heat, sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika before baking.
- Make it festive: Add a dash of pumpkin pie spice or nutmeg for a cozy holiday flavor.
- Sugar-free option: Use sugar-free maple syrup to lower the sugar content while keeping the flavor intact.
- Extra crunch: Stir in chia seeds, sesame seeds, or shredded coconut before baking for texture variety.
- Mix and match nuts: Swap or combine pecans with walnuts, almonds, or cashews for a nutty medley.
Nutritional Information (per 1/4 cup serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 13 g |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Fat | 19 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar (natural) | 10 g |
| Sodium | 45 mg |
Rich in healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants, maple glazed pecans are a snack that satisfies both your cravings and your nutrition goals.
Serving Suggestions
- Breakfast topping: Sprinkle over oatmeal, Greek yogurt, or smoothie bowls for natural sweetness and crunch.
- Salad boost: Add to spinach or arugula salads with goat cheese, apple slices, and balsamic dressing.
- Dessert garnish: Use as a topping for ice cream, pancakes, or banana bread.
- Holiday gift: Pack them in glass jars, tie with a ribbon, and gift to friends during the holidays — they look and taste luxurious!
- Snack time: Enjoy straight from the jar for a quick energy boost between meals.
Maple Glazed Pecans: The Sweet, Crunchy Snack You’ll Crave All Day
8
servings5
minutes15
minutes220
kcalIngredients
IngredienttAmount
Pecan halvest2 cups (200g)
Pure maple syrupt1/3 cup (80ml)
Coconut oil or butter (melted)t1 tbsp
Ground cinnamon (optional)t1/2 tsp
Vanilla extract (optional)t1/2 tsp
Sea saltt1/4 tsp
Directions
- Preheat Oven
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Mix the Glaze
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together maple syrup, melted coconut oil (or butter), cinnamon, vanilla, and sea salt until smooth and glossy.
- Coat the Pecans
- Add the pecan halves to the bowl and toss well until every nut is evenly coated in the maple mixture.
- Bake Until Golden
- Spread the coated pecans evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12–15 minutes, stirring once halfway through to prevent burning.
- Cool Completely
- Remove from the oven and let the pecans cool on the baking sheet. They will crisp up as they cool, forming a beautiful, crunchy glaze.
- Store & Enjoy
- Once cooled, transfer the pecans to an airtight jar. Store at room temperature for up to 2 weeks — if they last that long!
Recipe Video
Notes
- Use real maple syrup: The flavor of pure maple syrup makes a big difference — avoid pancake syrup or artificial substitutes for the best taste.
Keep an eye while baking: Pecans toast quickly, so check them often during the last few minutes to prevent burning. They should look golden and smell nutty, not dark or smoky.
FAQs
1. How do I keep maple glazed pecans from becoming sticky?
To keep your maple glazed pecans crisp and not sticky, make sure to bake them long enough for the maple syrup to fully caramelize — about 12–15 minutes at 350°F (175°C). After baking, let them cool completely before storing in an airtight container. Moisture is the enemy of crunch, so avoid covering them while still warm.
2. How long do maple glazed pecans last?
Properly stored in an airtight container at room temperature, maple glazed pecans stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. You can also refrigerate them for up to a month or freeze them for 2–3 months. Just bring them to room temperature before eating for the best flavor and texture.
3. Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes! You can easily swap pecans for walnuts, almonds, or cashews. Each nut offers a slightly different flavor and texture, but all pair beautifully with maple syrup. You can even make a mixed-nut version for variety.
4. Are maple glazed pecans healthy?
Maple glazed pecans are a healthier sweet snack option when enjoyed in moderation. They’re packed with healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants from the pecans, and natural sweetness from real maple syrup — no refined sugar needed.
5. Why did my maple glazed pecans burn?
Pecans can burn quickly due to their high oil content. To prevent this, bake them at no higher than 350°F (175°C) and stir halfway through the baking time. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes — they can turn from perfectly golden to burnt in seconds.
Conclusion
Sweet, nutty, and impossibly addictive — maple glazed pecans are proof that the simplest ingredients can create pure magic. Their crisp texture and deep caramel flavor make them the perfect addition to just about anything: salads, desserts, or cozy snacking moments.
