Maple Glazed Pecans are a sweet, crunchy treat that perfectly balances the rich, buttery flavor of pecans with the natural sweetness of pure maple syrup. This simple yet irresistible snack is perfect for holidays, gifting, or enjoying as a snack any time of the year. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch with a warm, caramelized glaze that clings beautifully to the nuts, making them both delicious and visually appealing.
What makes this recipe so special is its versatility: enjoy them as a topping for oatmeal, yogurt, salads, or desserts, or simply munch them straight from the jar. With just a few pantry staples and a quick roasting time, homemade maple glazed pecans are far superior to store-bought versions.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s effortless yet transforms ordinary pecans into a sweet, crunchy delight. The combination of maple syrup, butter, and a hint of salt creates a perfect glaze that’s rich without being overly sweet. They’re addictive, aromatic, and perfect for snacking or gifting.
Why This Is a Must-Try Dish
This is a must-try recipe because it’s quick, simple, and produces a treat that feels fancy but is incredibly easy to make. The balance of sweetness, nuttiness, and slight saltiness makes these pecans versatile for sweet and savory dishes alike. Once you try homemade maple glazed pecans, you won’t want to go back to store-bought!
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: 20–25 minutes
Servings: About 2 cups
Calories: Approximately 200 calories per ¼ cup serving
Course: Snack / Dessert Topping
Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups pecan halves
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
Cooking Directions
The pecans are tossed in a sweet maple glaze, then roasted until caramelized and crunchy. The result is a snack that’s aromatic, sweet, and nutty.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare Maple Glaze
In a medium bowl, whisk together maple syrup, melted butter, brown sugar (if using), vanilla, salt, and cinnamon until smooth.
Step 3: Coat Pecans
Add pecan halves to the glaze and toss until evenly coated.
Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Spread the glazed pecans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 5: Roast Pecans
Bake for 15–20 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the pecans are golden and fragrant. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
Step 6: Cool Completely
Remove from oven and let pecans cool completely on the baking sheet. They will harden as they cool.
How to Serve
Serve maple glazed pecans as a snack, on top of oatmeal, yogurt, ice cream, salads, or desserts. They also make a beautiful homemade gift when packaged in jars or decorative bags.
Recipe Tips
- Stir halfway through baking to ensure even caramelization
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking
- Let pecans cool completely for maximum crunch
- Adjust sweetness by varying maple syrup or sugar
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness
Variations
Spiced Maple Pecans
Add nutmeg, cloves, or cayenne pepper for a warm or spicy kick.
Chocolate Drizzled Pecans
After cooling, drizzle with melted dark or white chocolate.
Honey Maple Pecans
Replace half the maple syrup with honey for a different flavor profile.
Salted Caramel Pecans
Add a pinch of flaky sea salt after baking for a sweet-salty combination.
Nut Mix Glaze
Use a mixture of pecans, walnuts, and almonds for a variety of textures and flavors.
Freezing and Storage Time
Room Temperature:
Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Freezer:
Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Tip:
Allow pecans to cool completely before storing to avoid sogginess.
Special Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Conclusion
Maple Glazed Pecans are a quick, versatile, and delicious snack that can also elevate desserts, salads, or breakfast dishes. With a simple glaze of maple syrup, butter, and a hint of spice, these nuts become sweet, crunchy, and irresistible. Perfect for gifting, entertaining, or enjoying anytime, this recipe is a must-have for anyone who loves homemade, flavorful treats.
Maple Glazed Pecans
Description
Maple Glazed Pecans are a sweet, crunchy treat that perfectly balances the rich, buttery flavor of pecans with the natural sweetness of pure maple syrup. This simple yet irresistible snack is perfect for holidays, gifting, or enjoying as a snack any time of the year. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch with a warm, caramelized glaze that clings beautifully to the nuts, making them both delicious and visually appealing.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Preheat Oven : Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
-
Prepare Maple Glaze : In a medium bowl, whisk together maple syrup, melted butter, brown sugar (if using), vanilla, salt, and cinnamon until smooth.
-
Coat Pecans : Add pecan halves to the glaze and toss until evenly coated.
-
Arrange on Baking Sheet : Spread the glazed pecans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
-
Roast Pecans : Bake for 15–20 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the pecans are golden and fragrant. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
-
Cool Completely : Remove from oven and let pecans cool completely on the baking sheet. They will harden as they cool.
