How to Make Slow-Cooker Candied Pecans

1. Prep the Slow Cooker

Spray the inside lightly with nonstick spray or line it with a slow-cooker liner to make cleanup easier.

2. Add the Pecans

Place the raw pecan halves directly into the slow cooker.

3. Add the Dry Ingredients

Sprinkle the white sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon evenly over the pecans. Stir to coat.

4. Pour in the Melted Butter

Drizzle the butter on top and stir again until the mixture begins to cling to the nuts.

5. Slow Cook

Cook on LOW for 2½ to 3 hours, stirring every 30 minutes so the sugars don’t clump or burn.

6. Optional: Add a Splash of Water

During the last 30 minutes, add 1–2 tablespoons of water. This helps the sugar crystallize into that classic candied texture.

7. Cool Completely

Spread the pecans onto a sheet of parchment paper to cool. As they dry, they become beautifully crisp and glossy.

Serving Ideas

These candied pecans are as versatile as they are addictive. Try them:

On top of oatmeal or yogurt
Mixed into salads with goat cheese or cranberries
Crushed over ice cream
Packaged in jars for easy holiday gifts
Eaten by the handful as a sweet snack

Tips for Perfect Candied Pecans

✔ Stir often

A quick stir keeps the sugar from settling and ensures even coating.

✔ Don’t skip the cool-down

This is when the pecans turn crunchy—so resist eating them warm!

✔ Add heat for a kick

A pinch of cayenne or chili powder transforms them into sweet-and-spicy candied nuts.

✔ Try other nuts

Cashews, almonds, or walnuts work just as well.

A Simple Recipe That Feels Gourmet

There’s something magical about a recipe that takes only a few ingredients and a little patience yet produces such impressive, irresistible results. Slow-cooker candied pecans are that kind of magic—simple enough for beginners, special enough for celebrations, and delicious enough to become a household favorite.