Easy & Irresistible Keto Candied Pecans (Sweet, Crunchy & Simple!)
Get ready to fall in love with these Easy & Irresistible Keto Candied Pecans! Whole pecan halves are coated in a rich, buttery, and perfectly sweet brown sugar glaze, then chilled to a delightful crunch. These quick, no-bake candied pecans are fantastic for snacking, topping desserts, or gifting. They’re low-carb, sugar-free, and naturally gluten-free – a delightful addition to your health journey, especially perfect for a sweet moment right here in beautiful Puerto Vallarta!
Yields: 1 ½ cups Prep time: 10 minutes Chill time: 1-2 hours
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups pecan halves
- ¼ cup (4 tablespoons) unsalted butter
- ½ cup Swerve Brown Sugar Substitute, packed (or your preferred brown sugar erythritol blend)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Equipment:
- Medium saucepan
- Rubber spatula or wooden spoon
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Instructions:
- Melt Butter & Sweetener: In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Once the butter is melted, add the Swerve Brown Sugar Substitute. Stir constantly over low to medium heat for 2-3 minutes, until the sweetener has fully melted and dissolved into the butter, creating a smooth, glossy syrup.
- Add Vanilla & Thicken: Stir in the vanilla extract until well combined.
- Continue to cook the mixture down over low heat, stirring frequently, for another 3-5 minutes. The mixture should start to thicken and become more syrupy. Be careful not to let it burn.
- Coat Pecans: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Add the pecan halves to the hot glaze.
- Toss vigorously with a spatula or spoon until all the pecans are completely and evenly coated with the sticky glaze.
- Cool & Harden: Pour the coated pecans onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spread them out into a single layer, separating any large clumps.
- Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours to allow the candied pecans to cool completely and harden.
- Break Apart & Serve: Once completely cooled and firm, break apart any pecans that have stuck together.
- Serve and enjoy these deliciously crunchy candied pecans!
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.
Tips for Success:
- Gentle Heat for Glaze: Keep the heat on low to medium when making the glaze to prevent the sweetener from burning. Stir constantly!
- Even Coating: Ensure every pecan is coated for the best flavor and texture.
- Single Layer for Cooling: Spreading the pecans in a single layer on parchment paper helps them cool and harden evenly without sticking into one giant clump.
- Patience with Chilling: The chilling time is crucial for the glaze to set and become firm and crunchy.
- Storage: While they can be stored at room temperature, refrigeration can help them stay extra crisp, especially in humid climates like Puerto Vallarta.
Recipe Analysis & Dietary Classification:
These Easy Keto Candied Pecans are a delightful addition to your health journey!
- High Fat: Yes, primarily from the pecans and butter.
- Low-Carb: Yes, this recipe is very low-carb due to the use of sugar-free sweetener and naturally low-carb pecans.
- Keto: Yes, this recipe is keto-friendly. All listed ingredients are suitable for a ketogenic diet.
- Gluten-Free: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
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