When the days grow shorter and the crispness of autumn fills the air, there’s nothing quite like coming home to the warm, inviting aroma of sweet and spicy treats wafting from the kitchen. That magical moment when I first tasted Crockpot Maple Bourbon Candied Pecans was one I won’t soon forget! With just a handful of simple ingredients and a little patience, this slow-cooker recipe transforms humble pecans into a gourmet snack that will have your friends and family begging for the secret.
Not only are these pecans the perfect crunchy addition to your holiday cheese board, but they also make a delightful edible gift that captures the essence of the season. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply looking for a comforting treat to enjoy while curled up with a good book, these candied pecans deliver a sweet, nutty flavor with a hint of bourbon that’s hard to resist. Let’s dive into this easy recipe and make your holiday snacking a little more special!
Why are Crockpot Maple Bourbon Candied Pecans a Must-Try?
Irresistibly Sweet: The combination of maple syrup and bourbon creates a flavor profile that’s both sweet and sophisticated, elevating your snacking experience.
Effortless Preparation: Made effortlessly in a slow cooker, this recipe saves you time while delivering incredible flavor!
Perfect for Gifting: Pack these candied pecans into beautiful jars for thoughtful holiday gifts, impressing friends and family with your culinary prowess.
Versatile Delights: Enjoy them as a snack, atop salads, or sprinkled over ice cream, making them a versatile addition to your festive meals.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Their crunchy texture and sweet coating make these pecans a surefire hit at holiday parties, ensuring everyone keeps coming back for more!
Comforting Crunch: When the cozy feeling of home is in the air, nothing beats the delightful aroma of your own homemade treats. Dive into this recipe, and you’ll see just how special these Crockpot Maple Bourbon Candied Pecans can be!
Crockpot Maple Bourbon Candied Pecans Ingredients
For the Pecan Coating
- Egg White – Helps the coating stick to the nuts, providing a crispy texture crucial for the candying process.
- Pecan Halves – The star of the show, offering a rich, buttery flavor; avoid chopped nuts as they won’t hold the coating well.
- Pure Maple Syrup – Infuses the recipe with authentic sweetness and depth; steer clear of pancake syrup for best results.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor profile, adding a comforting warmth to each pecan bite.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens and assists in caramelization; pairs well with brown sugar for a delightful flavor depth.
- Light Brown Sugar – Contributes moisture and a deeper caramel flavor; remember to pack it tightly for accuracy.
For the Spices
- Ground Cinnamon – Brings warmth and spice to the mix, beautifully complementing the bourbon and nuts.
- Ground Nutmeg – Adds an earthy hint of spice, perfect for enhancing the holiday feel.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and elevates the overall flavor experience.
- Bourbon – Introduces a unique, complex flavor; use a moderate-quality bourbon, or replace with water for a non-alcoholic variant.
Dive into the delightful world of these Crockpot Maple Bourbon Candied Pecans, and watch as your holiday gatherings transform into a flavorful celebration!
How to Make Crockpot Maple Bourbon Candied Pecans
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Prepare the Slow Cooker:
Begin by generously coating the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray. This will ensure that your pecans don’t stick, giving you a perfect, easy cleanup later on! -
Beat the Egg White:
Add the egg white to the slow cooker and beat until it becomes foamy. This fluffy base is vital for the coating to adhere, creating that irresistible crunchy texture. -
Combine with Pecan Halves:
Stir in the pecan halves, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Gently mix until the nuts are well-coated, ensuring every single pecan gets that delicious sweetness! -
Mix in the Sugars and Spices:
Add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt to the mix. Combine thoroughly, ensuring the sugars and spices evenly coat each nut for maximum flavor. -
Cook on Low:
Cover and set your slow cooker to LOW, cooking the mixture for 2 hours and 20 minutes. Be sure to stir every 20 minutes for even cooking and to allow the sugars to caramelize beautifully. -
Add the Bourbon:
Incorporate the bourbon into the cooked pecans and allow them to cook for an additional 40 minutes. This step deepens the flavor, bringing a lovely complexity to your candied pecans. -
Dry the Pecans:
Carefully transfer the candied pecans to a lined baking sheet, spreading them into an even layer. Let them dry for about 1 hour, allowing the coating to set and harden perfectly.
Optional: Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt before serving for an extra flavor boost.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Crockpot Maple Bourbon Candied Pecans
Room Temperature: Store your candied pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1-2 weeks to maintain their crunch and flavor.
Refrigerator: For longer freshness, place the pecans in the fridge, where they can last up to 3 weeks, though they may lose a bit of crunch.
Freezer: These delicious Crockpot Maple Bourbon Candied Pecans can be frozen for up to 2 months. Be sure to use an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature. If necessary, you can re-crisp them in the oven at 325°F for 5-10 minutes.
What to Serve with Crockpot Maple Bourbon Candied Pecans?
Whether you’re snacking solo or entertaining guests, these sweet morsels deserve a delightful companion to truly shine.
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Charcuterie Board: Create a stunning board with meats, cheeses, and fresh fruits, complementing the sweet and savory flavor of the pecans. The crunchiness will pair beautifully with soft cheeses.
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Creamy Brie: Serve a wedge of creamy brie with a drizzle of honey and a handful of these candied pecans. The smooth, rich cheese and flavorful nuts create an exquisite contrast.
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Chocolate Desserts: These pecans are an excellent topping for chocolate desserts, like brownies or truffles, adding depth and crunch to rich chocolate flavors.
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Cranberry Salad: Toss them into a fresh spinach salad with cranberries and goat cheese. The sweetness of the pecans balances the tartness of the berries, creating a burst of flavor.
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Sweet Potato Biscuits: Serve with warm sweet potato biscuits that provide a comforting, slightly sweet backdrop to the nutty, spiced flavor of your candied pecans.
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Mulled Wine: Pair these snacks with a glass of mulled wine—spiced warmth and fruity notes will perfectly balance the sweetness and nuttiness of the candied pecans for a cozy night in.
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Spiced Apple Cider: For a festive drink, enjoy your pecans alongside warm spiced apple cider. The cinnamon and nutmeg in both the cider and nuts harmonize beautifully, infusing your evening with holiday cheer.
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Yogurt Parfait: Layer them in a yogurt parfait with Greek yogurt and fresh berries. This creates a delightful mix of textures, with the creaminess of yogurt countering the crunchy pecans.
Expert Tips for Crockpot Maple Bourbon Candied Pecans
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Egg White Essential: Don’t skip the egg white; it’s crucial for creating a crispy coating that clings well to the pecans.
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Slow Stirring: Stir every 20 minutes during cooking to prevent uneven speckling or burning; this ensures a consistent caramelization.
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Cool Completely: Allow the pecans to dry completely after cooking. If they’re sticky, a quick bake at 325°F for 5-15 minutes can help firm them up.
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Flavor Variations: Experiment with spices like cayenne for a kick or try different extracts like almond for a unique twist on your Crockpot Maple Bourbon Candied Pecans.
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Proper Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 weeks. For extended freshness, refrigerate or freeze.
Crockpot Maple Bourbon Candied Pecans Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize these delicious pecans to suit your taste or dietary needs!
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Nutty Alternatives: Substitute pecans for almonds or walnuts to give a different flavor and texture while maintaining that delightful crunch.
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Flavor Surprises: Experiment with flavored extracts like maple or almond for a unique twist that can elevate the classic taste.
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Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the sugar mix for a spicy heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
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Cocoa Infusion: For chocolate lovers, sprinkle in some cocoa powder as the pecans cook, creating a delightful chocolate-covered pecan flavor.
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Crunchy Finish: Top your candied pecans with a sprinkle of sea salt or cinnamon sugar just before they dry for an extra layer of flavor.
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Vegan Friendly: Swap egg whites for aquafaba (chickpea brine) to keep this recipe vegan, maintaining that perfect coating.
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Zesty Zing: Incorporate a bit of orange or lemon zest for a refreshing citrus zing that complements the maple syrup remarkably well.
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Nut-Free Option: Replace nuts entirely with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free treat that remains delicious and crunchy.
Make Ahead Options
These Crockpot Maple Bourbon Candied Pecans are an excellent choice for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prep the pecan mixture (excluding the bourbon) up to 24 hours in advance; simply store the coated nuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy these sweet treats, just transfer the mixture to the slow cooker, add the bourbon, and cook on LOW for the specified time. To maintain their crunchiness, allow them to dry completely on the baking sheet after cooking. This way, you’ll have delicious, homemade candied pecans ready for parties or as a delightful gift, all with minimal effort!
Crockpot Maple Bourbon Candied Pecans Recipe FAQs
How can I ensure my pecans are perfectly ripe?
Absolutely! Choose pecan halves that are plump and free of dark spots or blemishes. Fresh pecans should have a rich, buttery aroma. If you’re unsure, taste one—fresh pecans should be crunchy and flavorful!
What’s the best way to store Crockpot Maple Bourbon Candied Pecans?
For room temperature storage, keep your candied pecans in an airtight container to maintain their crunch for up to 1-2 weeks. If you prefer longer-lasting freshness, consider refrigerating or freezing them. They can stay in the fridge for up to 3 weeks, while freezing keeps them intact for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw at room temperature before enjoying!
Can I freeze these candied pecans? How do I do it?
Yes, you can freeze your Crockpot Maple Bourbon Candied Pecans! First, let them cool completely after drying. Then, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, ensuring you remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label them, and you can enjoy these flavorful treats for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in a preheated oven at 325°F for 5-10 minutes to re-crisp.
What should I do if my candied pecans are sticky after drying?
If your pecans are still sticky after drying, don’t fret! Preheat your oven to 325°F and spread the pecans on a baking sheet in an even layer. Bake for 5-15 minutes, checking frequently to prevent burning. The heat will help firm them up, creating that delightful crunch you’re after!
Are there any dietary considerations for these pecans, like allergies?
Great question! Keep in mind that this recipe contains nuts (pecans), eggs, and bourbon, which can be allergenic for some individuals. If you’re catering to those with egg allergies, you can experiment with aquafaba (chickpea brine) as a vegan alternative. Always check for specific dietary preferences, especially if sharing at gatherings.
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Definitely! While this recipe focuses on pecans, you can substitute them with almonds or walnuts based on preference. Just keep in mind that each nut has its own unique taste and texture, so you may want to adjust the cooking times slightly based on their size. Enjoy experimenting!
Crockpot Maple Bourbon Candied Pecans Recipe FAQs
Crockpot Maple Bourbon Candied Pecans for Festive Snacking
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Generously coat the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray.
- Beat the Egg White: Add the egg white to the slow cooker and beat until foamy.
- Combine with Pecan Halves: Stir in the pecan halves, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until well-coated.
- Mix in the Sugars and Spices: Add the sugars and spices, combining thoroughly.
- Cook on Low: Cover and cook for 2 hours and 20 minutes, stirring every 20 minutes.
- Add the Bourbon: Incorporate bourbon into the cooked pecans and cook for an additional 40 minutes.
- Dry the Pecans: Transfer candied pecans to a lined baking sheet and let dry for about 1 hour.