Crock Pot Pumpkin Spice Glazed Pecans

Indulge in the irresistible allure of fall with these simple yet exquisite Slow Cooker Candied Pumpkin Spice Pecans. This delightful treat, requiring only 5 minutes of active preparation, promises to fill your home with a comforting aroma reminiscent of a cozy autumn day. Perfect for snacking by the handful, elevating your favorite ice cream, or presenting as a thoughtful, homemade gift, these candied pecans are a true celebration of seasonal flavors.

This timeless recipe, first shared in September 2016, received a refreshing update in August 2021 to ensure perfection.

While traditional candied pecans are undeniably delicious, the addition of pumpkin spice transforms them into an unparalleled culinary experience. For those who might not partake in the annual pumpkin spice latte craze (yes, we exist!), embracing this iconic flavor in other forms is an absolute must. From pumpkin spice cookies to pumpkin spice overnight oats and pumpkin energy bites, the versatility of pumpkin spice knows no bounds. These sweet and subtly spicy pecans are poised to be the undisputed hit of your autumn season, delighting everyone you share them with.

Why These Pumpkin Spice Pecans Are a Must-Make Fall Treat

There’s something truly special about a recipe that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort, and these slow cooker candied pecans fit the bill perfectly. They embody the essence of fall, combining convenience with incredible taste and aroma. Here’s why you’ll find yourself making batch after batch:

• Effortless Preparation: Forget complicated baking techniques or constant stirring. This recipe is incredibly simple, making it accessible for even novice cooks. A quick whisk of egg white, a gentle toss with the pecans and spices, and your slow cooker does the rest. The hands-off cooking method allows you to relax and enjoy the process as the magic unfolds.
• The Ultimate Fall Party Complement: These candied pecans are a versatile addition to any autumn gathering. Their sweet and spicy crunch makes them ideal for snack bowls, charcuterie boards, or as a flavorful component in a fall-themed chex mix. Serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an impromptu sundae bar, or sprinkle them over yogurt for a delightful breakfast twist. They instantly elevate any spread.
• An Irresistible Autumn Aroma: One of the most enchanting aspects of making these pecans is the incredible scent that permeates your entire home. As they slowly cook, the warm spices release a fragrant bouquet of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves, creating an inviting and cozy atmosphere. It’s an aroma far superior to any pumpkin spice candle, truly embodying the spirit of fall.
• Thoughtful and Delicious Gift Idea: Looking for a charming homemade gift? These candied pecans are a fantastic choice. Package them in decorative jars, tie with a festive ribbon, and present them to teachers, hostesses, neighbors, or friends. A gift of homemade pumpkin spice pecans is a heartfelt gesture that is always appreciated and enjoyed.

Essential Ingredients and Smart Substitutions

Crafting these delectable pumpkin spice pecans requires a few key ingredients, each playing a vital role in achieving that perfect candied coating and rich flavor. While the recipe is straightforward, understanding each component allows for easy customization and ensures the best possible results.

• Pecans: For the best texture and flavor, start with raw pecan halves. The slow cooking process allows them to absorb the spices beautifully and develop a crisp, candied exterior. If pecans are a bit pricey or you prefer variety, feel free to use a combination of nuts. Cashews, almonds, or walnuts can be excellent alternatives or additions, offering different textures and subtle flavor notes.
• Egg White: This seemingly small ingredient is crucial. The egg white acts as a binder, creating a light, frothy coating that helps the sugar and spices adhere evenly to each pecan. It’s what gives them their signature candied crunch.
• Vanilla Extract: Real vanilla extract makes a noticeable difference. Its warm, aromatic notes enhance the overall sweetness and complexity of the pecans. While imitation vanilla can be used in a pinch, genuine vanilla will provide a superior flavor profile.
• Granulated Sugar: Classic white granulated sugar forms the backbone of the sweet coating, providing the essential sugary crunch.
• Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar introduces a delightful depth of flavor with its molasses notes, complementing the warmth of the pumpkin spices. If you desire a richer, more intense caramel-like flavor, dark brown sugar can be used.
• Cinnamon and Spices: While pre-mixed pumpkin pie spice can be convenient, crafting your own blend allows for perfect customization. My preferred blend includes a generous amount of cinnamon, enhanced by ginger, cloves, and nutmeg. I find that some commercial pumpkin pie spice blends can be a bit heavy on the nutmeg, so adjusting the ratios allows you to achieve your ideal balance of warmth and zest.
• Sea Salt: A touch of sea salt is essential. It beautifully balances the sweetness of the sugars and brightens the overall spice blend, preventing the pecans from being overly cloying and bringing out the best in every flavor.

Crafting Your Candied Pumpkin Spice Pecans: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating these irresistible candied pecans in your slow cooker is a remarkably simple process that yields deliciously impressive results. Follow these steps for a perfect batch every time:

1. Prepare Your Slow Cooker: Begin by lightly spraying the bottom of your slow cooker insert with cooking oil. This essential step prevents the pecans from sticking and ensures easy removal once they’re perfectly candied. Add your raw pecan halves to the slow cooker. This recipe is flexible, so feel free to include other nuts like cashews or almonds if you wish to diversify your snack mix.
2. Whisk the Binding Mixture: In a separate small bowl, combine the egg white, vanilla extract, and a teaspoon of water. Using a whisk, beat the mixture vigorously until it becomes light and frothy. This usually takes about a minute. The frothiness is key, as it helps create a light, even coating for the nuts.




3. Coat the Pecans with Egg Mixture: Pour the frothy egg white mixture over the pecans in the slow cooker. Stir well, ensuring every pecan half is thoroughly and evenly coated. This initial layer is crucial for the spices and sugars to adhere properly.
4. Add the Sweet and Spicy Blend: Sprinkle the granulated sugar, brown sugar, sea salt, and your chosen pumpkin spices (cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves) over the coated pecans in the slow cooker. Toss everything together until all the pecans are completely covered with the spice and sugar mixture. If you prefer to minimize dishes, you can combine the dry ingredients in a separate bowl first, then add them to the pecans, but mixing directly in the slow cooker is perfectly fine.




5. Slow Cook to Perfection: Cover your slow cooker and cook on the LOW setting for approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. It is essential to stir the pecans every 30 minutes to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking and candying. This regular stirring helps achieve a consistently crisp texture.
6. Cool and Crisp: Once cooked, the pecans will appear slightly sticky. Immediately transfer them from the slow cooker and spread them out in a single layer on a sheet of parchment paper. Allow them to cool completely. As they cool, they will firm up and become wonderfully crisp. Do not attempt to serve or store them until they are entirely cool and hardened.

Creative Ways to Serve Your Pumpkin Spice Pecans

These candied pumpkin spice pecans are incredibly versatile, offering a myriad of ways to enjoy their sweet, spicy crunch. While they are undeniably delicious straight from the bowl, here are some creative suggestions to elevate your culinary experience:

• Straight from the Handful: The simplest and often most satisfying way to enjoy these pecans is as a standalone snack. Their addictive flavor makes them perfect for munching anytime.
• Salad Enhancer: Add a delightful crunch and burst of fall flavor to your salads. They pair wonderfully with mixed greens, apples, cranberries, and a vinaigrette dressing.
• Ice Cream Topping: Transform a plain scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream into an extraordinary dessert. Sprinkle a generous amount of candied pecans on top for an indulgent treat. For an adventurous twist, incorporate them into a homemade ice cream recipe, like this Butter Pecan Ice Cream for an amazing pumpkin spice variation.
• Yogurt and Granola Boost: Stir them into your morning yogurt or sprinkle them over a bowl of homemade granola for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
• Cheese Board Addition: Elevate your cheese and charcuterie boards by including these sweet and savory pecans. They provide a fantastic counterpoint to sharp cheeses, fresh fruits, and savory crackers.
• Baked Goods Embellishment: Use them as a topping for muffins, quick breads, or even as an ingredient in your favorite fall cookies for an added crunch and burst of flavor.
• Thoughtful Hostess Gift: Show up to any fall gathering with a beautiful jar of these candied pecans, tied with a bow. It’s a sophisticated and personal gift that is always appreciated.

Expert Tips for Perfect Candied Pecans

Achieving perfectly crisp, non-sticky candied pecans is simpler than you might think. Keep these expert tips and notes in mind to ensure your batch is absolutely flawless:

• Addressing Sticky Pecans: If your pumpkin spiced pecans remain sticky after cooling completely, it indicates they haven’t cooked long enough. Don’t despair! You can test for readiness by carefully removing a few pecans from the slow cooker and letting them cool. If they are still very sticky and soft, return the batch to the slow cooker and continue cooking for an additional 15-30 minutes, stirring frequently, until they achieve a firm, non-tacky texture when cooled.
• Oven Roasting Alternative: While the slow cooker offers a convenient, hands-off approach, you can certainly roast these candied pecans in the oven if you prefer. Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Spread the coated pecans in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for approximately one hour, making sure to stir them every 15-20 minutes to ensure even roasting and prevent burning.
• Embrace Other Nuts: Pecans can sometimes be on the pricier side. To make this recipe more budget-friendly or to simply enjoy a variety of textures and flavors, feel free to incorporate other nuts. Cashews and almonds are excellent choices that work beautifully with the pumpkin spice blend. They absorb the candied coating just as well and add their own unique charm.
• Egg-Free Option with Aquafaba: For those needing an eggless version, aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas) makes a fantastic substitute for egg whites. Approximately 2 tablespoons of aquafaba can replace one large egg white. Like egg whites, aquafaba can be whisked until frothy, providing the necessary binding quality for the sugar and spices. This allows everyone to enjoy these delightful candied nuts!
• Proper Cooling is Key: After cooking, spread the pecans in a single layer on parchment paper. Resist the urge to stack them or move them too early. Allowing them to cool completely and undisturbed is crucial for them to crisp up properly and prevent clumping.
• Storage Best Practices: Once fully cooled, store your candied pecans in an airtight container at room temperature. They will remain fresh and crunchy for up to a week, making them perfect for meal prep or gift giving. For longer storage, you can keep them in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or even freeze them for several months.

More Delightful Pumpkin Spice Recipes

If you’ve fallen in love with the comforting flavors of pumpkin spice, there’s a whole world of autumnal treats waiting to be discovered. Expand your fall baking repertoire with these other delicious pumpkin spice recipes:

• Simple Pumpkin Pie Smoothie: A healthy and quick way to enjoy pumpkin spice.
• Cinnamon Streusel Pumpkin Coffee Cake: Perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch.
• Pumpkin Spice Molasses Cookies with Maple Cream Cheese Icing: A classic cookie with an irresistible fall twist.
• Pumpkin Pie Crumble: All the flavors of pumpkin pie in a comforting crumble form.
• 5 Minute Pumpkin Pie Overnight Oats: An effortless and nutritious breakfast for busy mornings.
• Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal: A hearty and warming breakfast, ideal for chilly fall days.

Slow Cooker Candied Pumpkin Spice Pecans

By: Lorie Yarro

These incredibly simple Slow Cooker Candied Pumpkin Spice Pecans are a delightful and delicious fall treat. With just 5 minutes of prep time, they will infuse your entire home with the warm, inviting scent of a cozy autumn day. Enjoy them as a snack, over ice cream, or beautifully packaged as a sweet, homemade gift for someone special.

Prep Time:
5 minutes

Cook Time:
2 hours 30 minutes

Total Time:
2 hours 35 minutes

Servings:
16

Ingredients

• 4 c raw pecans
• 1 egg white
• 1½ tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp water
• ⅓ c brown sugar
• ⅓ c sugar
• 1 T cinnamon
• ¾ tsp ginger
• ¾ tsp nutmeg
• ½ tsp cloves
• ½ tsp sea salt

Instructions

• Spray the bottom of your slow cooker with oil. Add pecans to the slow cooker. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg white, vanilla, and water until frothy. This will take about one minute. Add to the pecans and stir well to coat.
• Add the remaining ingredients to the pecans and toss well to coat. Cook on low for 2 and a half hours, stirring every 30 minutes.
• Remove pecans from crock pot and lay on parchment paper and allow to cool completely.
• Store in an airtight container for up to one week.

Notes

• If your pumpkin spiced pecans come out sticky after cooling, they have not cooked long enough. You can pull a few pecans out and and cool them off to test and see if they are ready. If they seem very sticky, cook them a bit longer.
• You can roast these candied pecans if preferred. Bake at 250°F for about an hour, stirring every 15-20 minutes.
• You can use other nuts if desired. I often toss in cashews and almonds as well. Pecans can be very pricy, so this can bring down the cost of making this recipe.
• I have not made these egg free, but aquafaba— the liquid in a can of chickpeas– may be a good option to substitute if you need an eggless version. 2 tablespoons is the equivalent of one large egg white. It will become frothy as well!

Nutrition

Calories: 209kcal,
Carbohydrates: 13g,
Protein: 3g,
Fat: 18g,
Saturated Fat: 2g,
Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g,
Monounsaturated Fat: 10g,
Sodium: 77mg,
Potassium: 114mg,
Fiber: 3g,
Sugar: 10g,
Vitamin A: 15IU,
Vitamin C: 1mg,
Calcium: 27mg,
Iron: 1mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

HUNGRY FOR MORE? Subscribe to my newsletter and follow me on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest for all the latest!

Frequently Asked Questions About Candied Pecans

Here are answers to some common questions you might have about making and enjoying these delightful pumpkin spice pecans:

• Can I use pre-roasted pecans? While raw pecans are recommended for optimal flavor absorption and texture, you can use pre-roasted pecans. However, monitor the cooking time carefully as they might require less time in the slow cooker to avoid over-toasting.
• How do I prevent the pecans from burning in the slow cooker? Regular stirring every 30 minutes is crucial to prevent the pecans from sticking to the bottom and burning. Also, ensure your slow cooker is set to the ‘LOW’ setting, as a ‘HIGH’ setting can quickly lead to burning.
• Can I make these spicier? Absolutely! To add more heat, you can increase the amount of ginger and cloves, or even add a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick. Adjust to your personal taste preference.
• How long do these candied pecans last? When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these pecans will stay fresh and crunchy for up to a week. For longer storage, they can be refrigerated for up to two weeks or frozen for several months. Just ensure they are completely cool before storing.
• What other spices can I use? Beyond the pumpkin spice blend, you can experiment with other warm spices like cardamom, allspice, or even a touch of black pepper for an interesting savory note. Consider different extracts too, such as almond extract for a marzipan-like twist.

The Magic of Pumpkin Spice: A Fall Favorite Explained

Pumpkin spice is more than just a flavor; it’s a cultural phenomenon that heralds the arrival of autumn. This iconic blend typically consists of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and sometimes allspice. Its popularity stems from its ability to evoke feelings of warmth, comfort, and nostalgia, making it a staple in seasonal treats from lattes to baked goods.

The unique combination of these spices creates a complex profile that is both sweet and subtly fiery. Cinnamon provides a woody warmth, nutmeg adds a hint of sweetness and depth, ginger brings a zesty, slightly peppery note, and cloves offer a rich, aromatic intensity. When brought together, these spices perfectly complement the natural sweetness of pecans and sugars, transforming a simple nut into a gourmet delicacy. This blend is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, lending itself to both sweet and savory applications, making it a beloved flavor across the culinary landscape.

Conclusion: Embrace the Cozy Flavors of Fall

These Slow Cooker Candied Pumpkin Spice Pecans are a testament to how simple ingredients, combined with a touch of patience and the magic of a slow cooker, can create something truly extraordinary. In just a few easy steps, you can produce a crunchy, flavorful, and aromatic treat that embodies the very essence of autumn. Whether you’re making them for a festive gathering, a thoughtful gift, or simply to enjoy a cozy moment at home, these candied pecans are guaranteed to bring warmth and joy. So, gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and prepare to fill your home with the enchanting scents of fall. Happy cooking!