Sugared Pecans

I have always had a special fondness for spiced and sugared nuts. There’s something incredibly satisfying about the combination of a crunchy nut coated in a sweet and flavorful glaze. This recipe for sugared pecans is not only incredibly easy to make but also delivers an explosion of taste that will leave you wanting more. Whether you’re looking for a delicious snack or a delightful topping for your favorite desserts, these sugared pecans are sure to impress.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 pound (455 g) pecan halves
• ¼ cup (55 g) unsalted butter, melted
• ½ cup (63 g) powdered sugar
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger

PREPARATIONS:

1. Turn the slow cooker to high and allow it to heat for about 15 minutes.
2. In the hot slow cooker, stir together the pecan halves and melted butter, ensuring all the nuts are coated.
3. Add the powdered sugar to the slow cooker, stirring well to blend and coat the pecans evenly.
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 15 minutes.
5. Reduce the heat to low and remove the lid. Continue cooking the pecans uncovered, stirring occasionally, for about 2 to 3 hours or until the nuts are coated with a crisp glaze.
6. Transfer the sugared pecans to a bowl.
7. In a small bowl, combine the ground cloves, ground cinnamon, and ground ginger. Sift the spice mixture over the pecans, stirring well to ensure even coating.
8. Let the pecans cool before serving.

YIELD: 24 servings

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION PER SERVING:

• 1 g water
• 158 calories (83% from fat, 4% from protein, 12% from carbs)
• 2 g protein
• 16 g total fat
• 2 g saturated fat
• 8 g monounsaturated fat
• 4 g polyunsaturated fat
• 5 g carbs
• 2 g fiber
• 3 g sugar
• 53 mg phosphorus
• 16 mg calcium
• 1 mg iron
• 0 mg sodium
• 79 mg potassium
• 70 IU vitamin A
• 16 mg ATE vitamin E
• 0 mg vitamin C
• 5 mg cholesterol

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• The slow cooker method ensures that the pecans are evenly coated and infused with the flavors of the spices and powdered sugar.
• Feel free to adjust the amount of spices used according to your personal taste preferences. If you prefer a stronger spice flavor, you can increase the amounts slightly.
• These sugared pecans are best enjoyed when completely cooled, as they will become crisp and the flavors will meld together.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and crunch.

These sugared pecans are a delightful treat that combines the natural richness of pecan halves with a sweet and spiced coating. The melted butter provides a luscious base, while the powdered sugar adds sweetness and creates a crispy glaze. The blend of ground cloves, ground cinnamon, and ground ginger infuses the pecans with warm and aromatic flavors, elevating them to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Cooking the pecans in the slow cooker allows the flavors to meld together slowly, resulting in perfectly coated nuts. The gentle heat and extended cooking time ensure that the pecans are evenly coated and develop a crisp glaze. The spices add depth and complexity to the overall flavor profile, creating a balance between sweetness and warmth.

Once the pecans are cooked and coated, transfer them to a bowl and sprinkle the spice mixture over them. Make sure to evenly distribute the spices, ensuring that every pecan is coated. As the pecans cool, the glaze will set, creating a delightful crunch that complements the natural nuttiness.

These sugared pecans are incredibly versatile. They can be enjoyed on their own as a snack, sprinkled over salads for added texture and flavor, or used as a topping for desserts like ice cream or yogurt. Their sweet and spiced nature makes them a crowd-pleaser for gatherings and parties.

Indulge in the delightful combination of crunchy pecans and a sweet, spiced glaze with these sugared pecans. With their easy preparation and incredible taste, they are sure to become a favorite in your household.