These Candied Orange Pecans are the ultimate treat—crunchy, caramelized pecans infused with a hint of citrus and spice.
Whether you’re snacking, gifting, or topping your favorite dishes, these pecans bring the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and zesty flavors.
My absolutely favorite snack for the holidays are these orange pecans.
When I make them it’s like saying, “Merry Christmas” to my future self.
This orange candied pecans recipe has such an incredible flavor combination.
Sweet brown sugar, cinnamon, orange, and a touch of cayenne create a beautifully balanced bite. And it’s so easy to adjust the spice level for a sweet-only batch or one with a fiery kick.
And they are so quick and easy. With just a few steps, these orange candied pecans are ready to enjoy in no time.
The best part is, there is no special equipment needed to make these candied pecans with orange zest.
That’s right. No candy thermometer, no scales. All you need is a skillet and a baking sheet.
Perfect as a snack, salad topper, or even a festive gift, these candied pecans are sure to become a holiday staple in your home.
What Ingredients Are in Candied Orange Pecans?
- Brown sugar: Adds a rich sweetness and caramel flavor to coat the pecans.
- Cinnamon: Brings a warm and cozy spice to complement the sweetness.
- Pinch of Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Vanilla extract: Adds depth and a subtle floral note.
- Water: Helps create the syrupy coating for the pecans.
- Orange zest: Infuses the pecans with a bright, citrusy aroma and taste.
- Cayenne pepper: Provides a subtle heat that enhances the sweet and citrus flavors.
- Pecan halves: The star of the recipe, delivering a buttery crunch and nutty flavor.
Pro Tip: For the freshest flavor, use freshly grated orange peel and fresh pecans. While I have experimented and made candied pecans with orange juice instead of water, I have found I get a more consistent sugar coating when I use water. Save the juice for drinking.
How to Make Candied Orange Pecans:
- Prepare your cookie sheet by covering it with a sheet of parchment paper or nonstick foil.
- Combine sugar and every ingredient except pecans in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Heat and stir until the mixture reaches a boil.
- Continue cooking briefly while stirring constantly.
- Add the pecans and coat them evenly with the mixture.
- Transfer the pecans to the prepared baking sheet and separate them as they cool.
- Store in an airtight container once completely cooled.
Pro Tip: Stir the pecans frequently as they cool to prevent them from sticking together in clumps.
Are Candied Orange Pecans Sticky?
Orange candied pecans are not sticky if cooked properly! The sugar mixture should caramelize fully while cooking, resulting in a crisp coating on each pecan.
How to Store Candied Orange Pecans:
Store the cooled candied pecans in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Store at room temperature for best results.
How Long Do Candied Orange Pecans Last?
Stored correctly, these candied pecans can last up to two weeks at room temperature.
But they never last that long at my house! People always find them and snack on them throughout the day.
Can You Freeze Candied Orange Pecans?
Yes you can freeze orange pecans! Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to three months.
Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
What to Serve With Candied Orange Pecans:
You can serve these orange pecans so many different ways!
Sprinkle over a fresh green salad for added crunch and sweetness, use as a topping for oatmeal, yogurt, or ice cream, or serve spread on a cutting board with your favorite cheeses, meats, and veggies.
Here are a few tried and true recipes orange pecans go well with:
- Baked Sweet Potatoes
- Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans
- Blueberry Salad Recipe
- Eggnog Cranberry Bread
- Christmas Wreath Charcuterie Board
- Chocolate Chip Cheese Ball
Are Candied Orange Pecans Gluten-Free?
Yes, all the ingredients in this candied orange pecans recipe are naturally gluten-free.
That makes these great holiday gifts for friends and family!
Pro Tip: Just be sure to label ingredients used when gifting. That way people with allergies can feel safe eating them.
Are Candied Orange Pecans Vegan?
Yes, these pecans are vegan!
Unlike some candied nut recipes, this does not use any egg white to get that shine.
Instead this recipe uses candied sugar to coat each pecan. It takes a little bit of patience, but it gives you a nut that is a perfect addition to any table with dietary restrictions.
Are Candied Orange Pecans Healthy?
Orange pecans are kind of healthy.
While they are high in calories due to sugar and pecans, they also offer heart-healthy fats and antioxidants from the nuts and orange zest.
Eat them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Additional Pecan Recipes…
- Maple Pecan Oat Bars
- Banana Pecan Cookies
- Banana Nut Bread with Pecans Recipe
- Rhodes Monkey Bread with Pecans
- Pecan Crack
- Strawberry Mandarin Spinach Salad
- Roquefort Salad
- Banana Crumb Cake
- Pumpkin Rolls
If you are looking for a perfect candied pecans recipe with a twist, this recipe for candied orange pecans has everything you are looking for.
It is sweet, not sticky, allergy friendly, and absolutely delicious! The only thing that would make this recipe better is if you made a double batch!
Candied Orange Pecans
These Candied Orange Pecans are dangerously addictive! Sweet, citrusy, and perfectly crunchy. The ultimate holiday snack or salad topper!
Ingredients
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or nonstick foil and set aside.
- In a large skillet add brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, vanilla, water, orange zest and cayenne. Mix well.
- Bring mixture to a boil and cook for 1 minute 20 seconds, stirring non stop so it doesn’t burn.
- Add pecans and stir to coat.
- Transfer pecans to the prepared baking sheet and spread out.
- Stir every 30 seconds to ensure they cool separated and not in one big lump.
- Store in an airtight container.