Traditional Toasted Pecans

🕒 Prep: 5 min
🔥 Cook: 12 min
🍽 Serves: 8
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Toasted pecans are a classic favorite, perfect for snacking or adding a nutty crunch to your dishes. This straightforward recipe brings out the rich flavor of pecans with just a few simple ingredients and a little oven time.

Ingredients for Traditional Toasted Pecans

Pecans are the star of the show, providing a rich, buttery flavor and a crunchy texture. Make sure to use fresh pecan halves for the best results. Unsalted butter adds richness and helps the salt adhere to the nuts, while also contributing to that irresistible toasted aroma. Finally, a touch of sea salt balances the sweetness of the pecans and highlights their natural flavors.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use fresh pecans for the best flavor and texture. Stale nuts can taste rancid and won't toast well.
  • If you prefer a less salty snack, start with 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt and adjust to taste.
  • Watch the pecans closely in the last few minutes of baking to prevent burning.

Serving Suggestions

These toasted pecans are versatile. Toss them into a leafy salad for some crunch, or sprinkle them over a bowl of ice cream for a decadent treat. They're also a great addition to a cheese board, adding a nutty contrast to creamy cheeses. For a simple snack, enjoy them on their own by the handful.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, just reduce the amount of sea salt to avoid making the pecans too salty.
How long will toasted pecans keep?
Stored in an airtight container, they should stay fresh for up to two weeks.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to use multiple baking sheets or toast them in batches to maintain a single layer.

Traditional Toasted Pecans Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is just the right temperature to toast the pecans without burning them. While the oven is warming up, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. You can do this in a small saucepan over low heat or pop it in the microwave for about 30 seconds.

Once the butter is melted, place 2 cups of pecan halves in a large mixing bowl. Pour the melted butter over the pecans and sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of sea salt. Toss everything together until the pecans are evenly coated. This step ensures that every bite will have that delicious buttery, salty flavor.

Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the pecans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. This helps them toast evenly and prevents them from sticking. Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven.

Bake the pecans for 10-12 minutes. About halfway through, give them a good stir to ensure they toast evenly. Keep an eye on them, as ovens can vary and nuts can go from golden to burnt quickly. You're looking for a lovely golden brown color and a fragrant aroma.

When they're done, remove the pecans from the oven and let them cool completely. This cooling step is crucial as it allows the nuts to crisp up properly. Once cooled, they're ready to enjoy or store for later.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to make with only three ingredients.
  • Ready in just 15 minutes, including prep time.
  • Perfect for adding to salads, desserts, or enjoying on their own.
  • The buttery, salty coating enhances the natural taste of pecans.

Ingredients

2 cups pecan halves
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tsp sea salt

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, toss the pecan halves with melted butter and sea salt until evenly coated.
3. Spread the pecans in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the pecans are golden brown and aromatic.
5. Remove from the oven and let them cool completely before serving or storing.

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