Candied Pecans With Coconut Sugar
These candied pecans with coconut sugar are an obsession in my household. I started making these several months to go with my summer peach salad and they quickly turned into a favorite snack. My husband and I now fight over the last ones lol. They are perfectly sweet, crunchy, and incredibly easy to make. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to traditional candied nuts, that are made with brown sugar or white sugar, this recipe is for you. Made with just a handful of simple ingredients, and sweetened with coconut sugar, these healthy candied pecans develop a delicious crunchy coating in the oven and make a great snack, holiday gift, or topping for salads and desserts.
This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy.
Whether you’re searching for a healthy candied pecans recipe, candied pecans for salad, or an easy candied pecans recipe, this oven-baked version delivers amazing flavor with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Made with just a few simple ingredients
- Naturally sweetened with coconut sugar
- Packed with heart-healthy healthy fats
- Perfect for salads, charcuterie boards, and desserts
- Crispy texture thanks to the egg whites
- Easy oven method
- Stores well in an airtight container
- A better-for-you option than traditional candied pecans made with brown sugar or refined sugar
Ingredients
- 3 cups raw pecan halves
- 1/3 – 1/2 cup coconut sugar (depending on desired sweetness)
- 2 egg whites, beaten until frothy
- 1 tsp water
- 1 1/2 teaspoons sea salt
Optional Flavor Variations
- Teaspoon of vanilla extract
- Hint of cinnamon
- Orange zest
- Rosemary
- Pinch of cayenne pepper for a sweet and spicy version
- Maple sugar or date sugar as alternative sweeteners
Why Use Coconut Sugar?
Unlike white sugar, coconut sugar has a slightly lower glycemic index and a rich caramel-like flavor that works beautifully in pecan recipes. While it is still a form of sugar, many people prefer it as part of a more whole-food approach to sweeteners.
You can also experiment with sugar substitutes like maple sugar or date sugar, though the texture and caramelization may vary slightly.
How to Make Candied Pecans in the Oven
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 325°F. Line a baking sheet or baking tray with parchment paper. A lined tray makes cleanup easier and prevents sticking.
Step 2: Beat the Egg Whites
In a large bowl, beat the egg whites until frothy. You don’t need stiff peaks, just enough air to help the coating stick.
Step 3: Coat the Pecans
Place pecan halves in a large bowl and pour the egg whites over them. Stir with a wooden spoon until all pecans are evenly coated.
Step 4: Add the Coconut Sugar & Set Salt
Sprinkle the coconut sugar and sea salt over the nuts and mix until everything is well combined and evenly coated.
Step 4: Bake
Spread pecans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are in an even layer so they bake evenly and crisp properly.
Bake for 10-15 minutes, then flip or stir the pecans and bake another 15 minutes to crisp up the other side.
Step 5: Cool Completely
Remove from the oven and let the pecans cool for a few minutes before transferring the entire sheet of pecans on the parchment paper to a wire cooking rack.
They may feel a little sticky at first, but they will crisp up as they cool and the sugar coating hardens. Wait to enjoy them until they have cooled completely.
Expert Tips
- Use pecans at room temperature for best results
- Do not overcrowd the pan; a single layer is important for even baking
- Allow pecans to cool completely before storing
- Break up any large sugar crystals before mixing if needed
- Store in an airtight container for maximum freshness
Serving Suggestions
These candied pecans for salad are a great addition to many dishes, including spinach salads, arugula salads, and fruit salads with apples or pears.
They also pair beautifully with:
- Yogurt bowls
- Oatmeal
- Ice cream
- Charcuterie boards
- Holiday dessert trays
During the holiday season, they make a simple holiday appetizer or homemade edible gift.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these healthy candied pecans?
Yes. These healthy candied pecans are made with simple ingredients and contain beneficial nutrients from pecans, including healthy fats and fiber. They are a more wholesome option compared to traditional versions made with refined sugar.
Can I use other sweeteners?
Yes. Maple sugar, date sugar, or other sugar substitutes can be used, though results may vary slightly in texture and caramelization.
Can I make these in a toaster oven?
Yes. A toaster oven works well for small batches. Just watch closely as cooking times may vary.
Do I need a candy thermometer?
No. Unlike stovetop candied pecans made over medium heat or medium-high heat in a hot skillet on a gas stove, this oven method requires no candy thermometer.
Can I make these without egg whites?
Egg whites help create the crunchy coating and help the sugar adhere to the pecans. For best results, they should not be omitted.
Storage
Once completely cooled, store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
More Healthy Nut Recipes
If you enjoy these healthy candied pecans, you may also enjoy other nut recipes and pecan recipes on the blog. They are great for snacks, toppings, and easy recipes throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
These candied pecans with coconut sugar are proof that simple recipes can still deliver amazing flavors. With just a few simple ingredients and the oven method, you get crunchy, sweet pecans that work for salads, desserts, and everyday snacking.
They are perfect for pumpkin pie, pecan pie, sweet potatoes, or simply enjoyed as a great snack on their own.
More From Scratch Reader Favorites
If you do give this recipe a try, I want to know! Leave a comment with a star rating below. You can also snap a photo & tag @wholisticmandy on Instagram. Your reviews help support this blog and make it possible for me to continue to create the recipes you know and love.
Grilled Peach Salad with Basil Vinaigrette
Ingredients
- 3 cups raw pecans halves
- 1/3 cup coconut sugar you can use up to 1/2 cup depending on sweetness preference
- 2 egg whites beaten until frothy
- 1 tsp water
- 1 tsp sea salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F. Line a baking sheet or baking tray with parchment paper. A lined tray makes cleanup easier and prevents sticking.
- In a large bowl, beat the egg whites until frothy. You don’t need stiff peaks, just enough air to help the coating stick.
- Place pecan halves in a large bowl and pour the egg whites over them. Stir with a wooden spoon until all pecans are evenlty coated.
- Add the coconut sugar and sea salt to the nut and egg white mixture and mix until everything is well combined and evenly coated.
- Spread pecans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are in an even layer so they bake evenly and crisp properly. Bake for 10-15 minutes, then flip or stir the pecans and bake another 15 minutes to crisp up the other side.
- Remove from the oven and let the pecans cool for a few minutes before transferring the entire sheet of pecans on the parchment paper to a wire cooking rack. They may feel a little sticky at first, but they will crisp up as they cool and the sugar coating hardens. Wait to enjoy them until they have cooled completely.
