There’s a certain magic that happens when pecans meet the bright zest and juice of fresh oranges. This beloved Southern snack combines the rich, buttery crunch of toasted pecans with a delightful tangy-sweet glaze that feels like autumn in every bite. Whether enjoyed straight from the jar or sprinkled atop your favorite salads and desserts, these orange-glazed pecans offer a vibrant twist to a classic treat.
Developed with care and tested by many appreciative taste buds, this recipe balances the warmth of cinnamon and brown sugar with the zing of citrus, creating a snack that’s equally perfect for holiday gatherings or everyday indulgence.
- Bright, citrusy glaze enhances the natural richness of toasted pecans.
- Simple ingredients come together in under an hour for homemade delight.
- Perfect as a snack, salad topping, or gift for friends and family.
Ingredients
- Unsalted Butter: Provides a rich, creamy base that helps the orange glaze evenly coat the pecans.
- Orange Zest: Adds vibrant citrus oil for an aromatic, fresh flavor punch.
- Fresh Orange Juice: Infuses the pecans with tangy sweetness that balances the brown sugar.
- Packed Brown Sugar: Brings deep caramel sweetness and helps create a sticky, glossy coating.
- Kosher Salt: Enhances all flavors, balancing the sweetness and highlighting pecan richness.
- Ground Cinnamon: Adds warm, spicy undertones that complement the orange and nuts perfectly.
- Pecan Halves: The star ingredient, toasted to a crunchy, flavorful perfection with a citrus glaze.
Instructions
- Melt Butter and Combine Citrus Elements
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Start by melting unsalted butter over medium-low heat, gently warming without browning. Add the freshly grated orange zest and juice to the pan, stirring to unify the flavors. This step releases the orange’s natural oils and allows the butter to carry a fragrant citrus base.
- Add Brown Sugar, Salt, and Cinnamon
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Sprinkle in the packed brown sugar, kosher salt, and ground cinnamon, stirring constantly to dissolve the sugar and meld the spices. This creates a luscious glaze that will cling beautifully to the pecans, infusing each bite with warm, sweet, and tangy notes.
- Coat and Toast Pecans
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Introduce the pecan halves to the skillet, tossing them thoroughly in the orange-butter glaze. Continue cooking over medium-low heat for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to toast the nuts evenly and enhance their natural oils while thickening the glaze to a shiny finish.
- Cool and Set
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Transfer the warm glazed pecans to a parchment-lined rimmed baking sheet, spreading them out in a single layer for optimal cooling. Allow them to cool completely so the glaze hardens slightly, giving each pecan a perfect snap with a glossy coating.
- Keep stirring during toasting to prevent burning and ensure even glaze distribution.
- Use fresh orange juice and zest for the best bright, citrus flavor.
- Allow pecans to cool fully before storing to maintain crispness.
Storage Tips
Store cooled orange-glazed pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For extended freshness, keep them refrigerated and bring to room temperature before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy these pecans as a flavorful snack on their own, or sprinkle over salads, roasted vegetables, and desserts like ice cream or yogurt. They also make a charming homemade gift nestled in decorative jars.
- Use a nonstick skillet to prevent sticky glaze from adhering to the pan.
- Toast pecans gently over medium-low heat to avoid burning delicate sugars.
- Experiment with adding a pinch of cayenne for a subtle spicy kick.
FAQs
- Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
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Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds can be substituted, but cooking times may vary slightly to avoid burning.
- How long do these orange-glazed pecans last?
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Stored properly in an airtight container, they stay fresh for up to two weeks at room temperature.
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
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Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this snack safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
- Is it better to use fresh or bottled orange juice?
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Fresh-squeezed orange juice is preferred for its vibrant flavor and aroma, which bottled juice lacks.
- Can I double the recipe?
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Yes, simply double ingredients and use a larger skillet to ensure even coating and toasting.
- How do I prevent the glaze from becoming too sticky?
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Stir regularly during cooking and avoid overheating. Cooling on parchment paper helps the glaze harden to a crisp texture.
- Can I store these in the fridge?
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Yes, refrigeration will extend shelf life. Bring pecans to room temperature before serving for best taste and texture.
Orange-Glazed Pecans
Equipment
- 1 Rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper
- 1 large skillet for toasting pecans
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons orange zest
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 cups pecan halves
Instructions
- Preheat oven by lining a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
- Add orange zest, orange juice, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon to the melted butter and stir until combined.
- Add pecan halves to the skillet and stir to coat them evenly with the glaze mixture.
- Cook pecans, stirring occasionally, until toasted and the glaze thickens, about 10 to 12 minutes.
- Remove pecans from heat and spread them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Allow pecans to cool completely before serving or storing.
Notes
- Store cooled pecans in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
- Use fresh orange zest for the best flavor.
- These pecans make a great salad topping or holiday gift.
