Are you looking for a way to add some excitement to your culinary routine? Look no further than the humble pecan! These delicious and versatile nuts are packed with flavor and can be used in a wide variety of sweet and savory dishes. From classic desserts like pie and pralines, to savory main courses and snacks, there’s no limit to the creative ways you can use pecans in your cooking.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious pecan recipes that are sure to become new favorites. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, these tasty treats are sure to satisfy your cravings and inspire you to get creative with this incredible ingredient.
Maple Glazed Pecan Pie
Elevate your traditional pecan pie game with the addition of a rich maple glaze, adding a depth of flavor and a hint of sweetness. This recipe combines the classic pecan filling with a caramel-like glaze made from pure Canadian maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tablespoons pure Canadian maple syrup
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together corn syrup, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
3. Stir in chopped pecans and melted butter until well combined.
4. Pour filling into the pie crust.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the filling is set.
6. While the pie is baking, prepare the maple glaze by whisking together maple syrup and 2 tablespoons of water.
7. Remove the pie from the oven and drizzle with the warm maple glaze.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Pecans
Add a delightful twist to your snack routine with these sweet and crunchy cinnamon sugar roasted pecans. Perfect for movie nights, parties, or simply satisfying your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pecan halves
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix together sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Add the melted butter to the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
4. Add the pecan halves to the mixture and toss until they’re evenly coated.
5. Spread the pecans on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until fragrant and caramelized, stirring every 5 minutes.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pecan Crusted Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this crunchy and flavorful Pecan Crusted Chicken recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup pecans
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together pecans, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the beaten egg and then coat with the pecan mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle honey over the chicken breasts.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pecan Praline Cookies
These chewy cookies are packed with the rich flavor of pecans and a hint of caramel sweetness from the praline topping. Perfect for a snack or dessert, they’re sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– Praline topping (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually mix in flour mixture, then stir in pecans.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Praline Topping:
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
Combine ingredients in a small saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the mixture reaches 235°F on a candy thermometer.
Spiced Pecan Butter
Elevate your snack game with this aromatic and flavorful spread, perfect for topping toast, using as a dip, or incorporating into baked goods. This spiced pecan butter combines the richness of pecans with the warmth of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pecan halves
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom
– Salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread the pecan halves on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. In a food processor, combine toasted pecans, softened butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom. Process until smooth and creamy.
4. Taste and add salt if desired.
5. Transfer the spiced pecan butter to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Pecan and Cranberry Stuffing
Perfect for the holiday season, this Pecan and Cranberry Stuffing combines the rich flavors of pecans with the tartness of cranberries to create a deliciously unique side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the bread cubes, pecans, cranberries, melted butter, sautéed onion mixture, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
5. Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly toasted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pecan Crusted Salmon
Elevate your salmon game with this flavorful and crunchy pecan crust! This recipe combines the richness of pecans with the delicate taste of fresh salmon, making it a perfect dinner option for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup pecans
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a food processor, grind pecans until coarsely chopped.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together ground pecans, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Dip each salmon fillet into the pecan mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place the coated salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chocolate Pecan Fudge
Make a batch of decadent chocolate fudge studded with crunchy pecans to satisfy your sweet tooth. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick treat or as a gift for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup (120g) unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 cup (250g) semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup (120g) chopped pecans
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Combine sugar, corn syrup, and butter in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes or until the mixture reaches 235°F (118°C) on a candy thermometer.
4. Remove from heat and stir in chocolate chips until melted. Stir in vanilla extract and pecans.
5. Pour into prepared baking dish and let cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Pecan Caramel Cheesecake
Rich and creamy cheesecake meets the perfect balance of sweet and nutty with this Pecan Caramel Cheesecake. The gooey caramel sauce and crunchy pecans add a delightful texture to this decadent dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Mix crust ingredients and press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until edges are set.
5. Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the cheesecake. Sprinkle with chopped pecans.
6. Let cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pecan and Banana Bread
Moist and flavorful, this Pecan and Banana Bread combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the rich nutty flavor of pecans. Perfect for a snack or breakfast on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped pecans.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Pecan Stuffed Dates
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of dates with the rich flavor of pecans, creating a deliciously addictive snack. Perfect for parties or as a quick dessert, these bite-sized treats are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 12 pitted dates
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Stuff each date with about 1-2 teaspoons of the pecan mixture.
3. Place the stuffed dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the dates are slightly caramelized and the pecans are toasted.
5. Remove from oven and let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pecan and Apple Salad
A refreshing autumn salad that combines the crunch of pecans with the sweetness of apples, perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe apples (Granny Smith or Gala), diced
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, diced apples, and chopped pecans.
2. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top (if using).
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required)
Pecan Brittle
Classic Southern treat that’s perfect for snacking or gift-giving, pecan brittle is a crunchy and nutty delight made with just a few simple ingredients. This recipe yields a deliciously chewy and flavorful brittle that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup light corn syrup
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
– Cooking spray or parchment paper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with cooking spray or parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine corn syrup, sugar, and water. Place over medium heat and stir until sugar dissolves.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in baking soda and vanilla extract. Let cool slightly.
5. Stir in pecan halves until well coated with the syrup mixture.
6. Pour onto prepared baking sheet and spread evenly.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown, stirring every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
8. Remove from oven and let cool completely before breaking into pieces.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pecan and Sweet Potato Casserole
This casserole combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the rich flavor of pecans, creating a match made in heaven. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, flour, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well.
3. Stir in heavy cream until combined.
4. Fold in chopped pecans and melted butter.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pecan and Honey Granola
Start your day with a crunchy and flavorful breakfast by making this Pecan and Honey Granola at home! This recipe combines the nutty goodness of pecans with the sweetness of honey, creating a deliciously addictive snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, pecans, and brown sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together honey and salt until well combined.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly coated.
5. Spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in an even layer.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly toasted, stirring every 10 minutes to ensure even cooking.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pecan and Chocolate Chip Cookies
Combine the nutty flavor of pecans with the richness of chocolate chips in these scrumptious cookies.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture, followed by pecans and chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pecan and Brown Sugar Glazed Ham
Elevate your holiday table with this sweet and savory ham recipe featuring a crunchy pecan and brown sugar glaze. Perfect for special occasions or everyday celebrations.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham, trimmed
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, pecans, honey, mustard, vinegar, and cinnamon.
3. Place the ham on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan, scoring the fat layer with a sharp knife.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
5. Bake for 2-1/2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Pecan and Pumpkin Spice Muffins
These moist and flavorful muffins combine the warmth of pumpkin spice with the richness of pecans, perfect for a cozy fall morning.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, milk, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in pumpkin spice and chopped pecans.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pecan and Blueberry Pancakes
These fluffy pancakes are packed with the rich flavor of pecans and the sweetness of blueberries, making for a perfect breakfast or brunch treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– Maple syrup or honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Fold in chopped pecans and blueberries.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
6. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on the number of pancakes)
Pecan and Coffee Ice Cream
This ice cream recipe combines the nutty flavor of pecans with the deep, bold taste of coffee, creating a unique and indulgent dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 tablespoon instant coffee powder
– 2 tablespoons brewed coffee
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugars dissolve.
2. Remove from heat and stir in kosher salt, chopped pecans, instant coffee powder, and brewed coffee. Let cool to room temperature.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Pour mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once churned, transfer to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None (chilling time included)
Summary
Get ready to go nuts with these 20 delicious pecan recipes! From sweet treats like Maple Glazed Pecan Pie and Chocolate Pocan Fudge, to savory dishes like Pecan Crusted Chicken and Pecan Crusted Salmon, there’s something for everyone. Plus, try out creative ideas like Spiced Pecan Butter, Pecan Praline Cookies, and Pecan Stuffed Dates. And don’t forget about the perfect pairings, such as Pecan and Cranberry Stuffing or Pecan and Apple Salad. With so many mouthwatering options, you’ll be hooked on pecans in no time!
