Air Fryer Candied Pecans

These air fryer candied pecans deliver a sweet and crunchy treat that is perfect for snacking, topping salads, or adding a delightful twist to desserts. The air fryer makes it effortless to achieve a perfectly caramelized coating in just minutes, saving time without sacrificing flavor or texture.

I first made these pecans on a whim when craving something sweet and crunchy. They quickly earned a permanent spot in my snack rotation for their addictive taste and easy prep.

Ingredients You Need

• Pecan halves: fresh and firm for maximum crunch
• Egg white: helps the sugar mixture adhere to the nuts for even coating
• Water: lightens the egg white for better coverage
• Vanilla extract: adds a subtle fragrant warmth to the sweetness
• Granulated sugar: provides crisp, crunchy candy texture
• Brown sugar: deepens the caramel flavor with its molasses notes
• Ground cinnamon: enhances the warm spiced profile
• Salt: balances the sweet and accentuates the flavors

Detailed Cooking Directions

Preheat The Air Fryer:

Set your air fryer to 300 degrees Fahrenheit or 150 degrees Celsius and allow it to come to temperature. Preheating ensures even cooking and caramelization.

Prepare The Coating Mixture:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg white, water, and vanilla extract until the mixture becomes frothy and slightly thickened. This mixture will help the sugars stick perfectly to each pecan.

Coat The Pecans:

Add the pecan halves to the frothy egg white mixture and toss gently until every nut is evenly coated. This step is essential for achieving that signature glossy candy crust.

Mix The Sugars And Spices:

In a separate bowl, mix granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt thoroughly. This dry blend will create a crunchy, flavorful shell around the nuts.

Combine Pecans With Sugar Mixture:

Sprinkle the sugar mixture over the coated pecans. Stir gently until every pecan is evenly covered in the sweet spice blend.

Air Fry The Pecans:

Spread the pecans in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Leave space between nuts to allow hot air to circulate and coat evenly. Cook for 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking process to ensure uniform caramelization.

Cool And Serve:

Remove the pecans from the air fryer and transfer them to parchment paper or a heatproof surface. Let them cool completely, allowing the sugary coating to harden into that perfect candied crunch.

I love how the cinnamon adds an unexpected warmth with every bite which complements the pecans’ natural richness. One holiday season, I made these as gifts and my friends could not stop asking for the recipe.

Smart Storage Tips

Store the cooled candied pecans in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crispness. Avoid refrigeration as it can cause moisture buildup making the nuts soggy. They will stay fresh for up to two weeks perfect for planning ahead for parties or snacks. For longer storage, sealing them in a freezer bag and freezing works well too.

Ingredient Variations

Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a spicy kick that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness. Using maple syrup instead of vanilla extract introduces a lovely depth of flavor. Toasted pecans can intensify the nutty aroma but skip any additional toasting in the air fryer to avoid burning.

Perfect Pairing Ideas

Sprinkle candied pecans over a crisp green salad with goat cheese and balsamic vinaigrette for a delightful textural contrast. They also make a fantastic topping for vanilla or pumpkin ice cream adding a caramelized crunch. Include them in baked goods like muffins or quick breads for an added layer of flavor and texture.

Seasonal Makeovers

In winter, increase cinnamon and add nutmeg or allspice to evoke cozy festive vibes. During the fall, toss in a few dried cranberries mixed with the candied pecans for a sweet tart surprise. For spring or summer, fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme finely chopped can add a unique aromatic twist that balances the sweet crunch.

Enjoy these irresistible candied pecans as a snack or a delightful addition to your favorite dishes. Their perfect balance of sweet and spice will keep you coming back for more.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What is the best temperature for air frying candied pecans?

Setting the air fryer to 300°F ensures the sugar coating caramelizes without burning the pecans, resulting in a crisp, evenly cooked snack.

→ Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Yes, walnuts or almonds work well with this coating and air frying method, but cooking times may vary slightly.

→ How do I prevent the sugar from clumping during cooking?

Coating pecans evenly with the egg white mixture before adding sugars helps the coating stick uniformly and reduces clumping.

→ Is shaking the basket necessary while air frying?

Shaking ensures the pecans cook evenly and the caramelized sugar coating develops on all sides for a balanced crunch.

→ How should I store cooked candied pecans?

Once fully cooled, store pecans in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them crisp for up to two weeks.