How-To: Easy Maple Pecan Topping

You may be thinking candied pecans, but this recipe for how to make maple pecans will get you a beautiful, saucy sweet pecan topping that works on sweet and savory dishes alike.

4 from 15 votes

Print Pin

Prep Time: 10

Cook Time: 20

Total Time: 30

Servings: cup

Calories: 959kcal

Equipment

Small pot

Ingredients

½ cup pecans lightly crushed
2 tablespoons plant-based butter
1 tablespoon Calabrian chili oil more or less to taste; or use crushed red pepper to taste
⅓ cup maple syrup
2 teaspoons lemon juice
Flaky sea salt
Water as needed, optional

Instructions

Toast the pecans:

Place the crushed pecans in a small pot over medium heat. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant and beginning to brown.

Simmer the pecans:

Melt the butter into the pecans. Once bubbly, add chili oil maple syrup, lemon juice, and a pinch of flaky sea salt. Once the maple syrup begins to bubble, reduce heat and cook, stirring regularly, for 15–20 minutes. The maple syrup will start to thicken and stick to the pecans and that is normal.

Thin out the pecans (optional):

If you want a saucier pecan topping, add a few splashes of water, about 2 tablespoons total, until desired consistency is reached—taste and season to your preferences.

To serve:

Serve over your favorite dessert or savory side dish. Store in an airtight container and reheat gently over the stove, adding more water if needed. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Tried this recipe?Mention @triedandtruerecipes or tag #triedandtruerecipes so I can feature you in my feed!