Description
Sweet, crunchy air fryer candied pecans, perfect for snacking, salads, desserts, or gifting.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups pecan halves
- 1 large egg white
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, but highly recommended!)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional, for extra richness)
Instructions
- Whisk the Egg White Mixture: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the egg white and water until slightly frothy.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate, larger bowl, combine the granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Whisk well.
- Coat the Pecans: Pour the pecan halves into the bowl with the egg white mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly to coat each pecan.
- Add the Sugar Mixture: Pour the sugar and spice mixture over the coated pecans. Stir until the pecans are evenly coated.
- Optional Enhancements: Drizzle the vanilla extract and melted butter over the pecans and stir again to combine.
- Preheat the Air Fryer (Optional): If your air fryer requires it, preheat to 300°F (150°C).
- Prepare the Air Fryer Basket: Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper. Lightly spray with cooking spray for extra insurance against sticking.
- Arrange the Pecans: Spread the coated pecans in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd; cook in batches if necessary.
- Air Fry the Pecans: Air fry at 300°F (150°C) for 8-12 minutes, or until golden brown and the sugar is caramelized. Shake the basket halfway through.
- Check for Doneness: The pecans are done when they are golden brown and the sugar is caramelized. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can burn easily.
- Cool the Pecans: Transfer the pecans to a sheet of parchment paper to cool completely. They will harden as they cool.
Notes
- Use fresh pecans for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed.
- Adjust cooking time as needed, as air fryers vary.
- Get creative with spices! Try cayenne pepper or ginger.
- Store cooled pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. In humid climates, store in the refrigerator.
- To prevent sticking, shake the basket halfway through cooking and use cooking spray on the parchment paper.
- Serving Suggestions: Add to salads, desserts, cheese boards, or use as gifts. Chop and add to baked goods.
- Troubleshooting:
- Pecans are Burning: Reduce cooking time or temperature.
- Pecans are Not Crispy: Don’t overcrowd the basket; ensure pecans are completely cooled.
- Sugar is Not Caramelizing: Increase cooking time slightly.
- Pecans are Sticking Together: Shake the basket more frequently.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8-12 minutes