Air Fryer Candied Pecans

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These candied pecans are sweet, crunchy, and ready in under 15 minutes. The air fryer speeds up the process without sacrificing texture or flavor. They’re great for topping salads, gifting in jars, or simply enjoying by the handful. With simple ingredients and no need to turn on the oven, this is a go-to snack or dessert addition that’s as easy as it is delicious.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pecan halves

• Egg white

• Water

• Granulated sugar

• Brown sugar

• Ground cinnamon

• Salt

• Cooking spray (optional, for the air fryer basket)

Directions

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg white and water until frothy.

2. Add the pecans to the egg white mixture and stir to coat evenly.

3. In a separate bowl, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.

4. Sprinkle the sugar mixture over the pecans and toss until fully coated.

5. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray if desired.

6. Add the coated pecans to the air fryer basket in a single layer.

7. Air fry at 300°F (150°C) for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

8. Remove and spread the pecans on parchment paper to cool and harden.

9. Store or serve once fully cooled.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 2 cups of candied pecans.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: 15–17 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a sweet-and-spicy version.

• Maple Flavor: Replace granulated sugar with maple sugar or add a touch of maple extract.

• Vanilla Twist: Add ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract to the egg white mixture.

• Different Nuts: Use this method with almonds, walnuts, or cashews.

• Pumpkin Spice: Substitute cinnamon with pumpkin pie spice for a fall-inspired snack.

Storage/Reheating

Store cooled candied pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a month or freeze for up to 3 months.

No reheating is necessary. If they lose some of their crunch, briefly air fry them at 300°F for 2–3 minutes or toast in a dry skillet.

FAQs

Can I use raw pecans for this recipe?

Yes, raw pecan halves are ideal as they roast and candy at the same time in the air fryer.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer?

It’s not required for this recipe, but preheating can help ensure even cooking if your air fryer tends to run cooler at the start.

Why are my candied pecans sticky?

They may need to cool longer. Once fully cooled, the coating should harden. If still sticky, try cooking them for 1–2 more minutes.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but cook in batches to ensure the pecans are in a single layer for even crisping.

Can I make these without egg white?

You can use a vegan egg substitute like aquafaba (chickpea brine) whipped until frothy as a binding alternative.

What’s the best way to prevent burning?

Keep the temperature at 300°F and shake the basket halfway through cooking. Watch closely in the last 2 minutes.

How long do candied pecans last?

Stored properly, they’ll stay fresh at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Can I use only brown sugar?

Yes, but the combination of brown and white sugar gives a deeper flavor and better texture.

What can I serve these with?

They’re great on their own, in salads, on top of yogurt or oatmeal, or as a dessert garnish.

Are these good for gifting?

Absolutely! Package cooled pecans in cellophane bags or small jars with ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Candied Pecans are a quick and delightful treat that delivers all the sweetness and crunch you love with half the effort of traditional methods. With just a few ingredients and minutes of cook time, these make an excellent snack, topping, or homemade gift. Once you try them, you’ll want to keep a batch on hand all season long.