Are you a fan of the rich, buttery flavor of pecans? Whether you’re looking for sweet treats or savory dishes, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 decadent pecan recipes that are perfect for every occasion. From classic desserts like Pecan Pie and Caramel Pecan Brownies to savory dishes like Pecan Crusted Chicken and Pecan Crusted Salmon, these recipes are sure to impress.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into the world of pecans and explore a wide range of delicious and creative recipe ideas. Whether you’re planning a special occasion or just looking for a tasty way to use up your pantry staples, we’ve got a recipe that’s perfect for you. So sit back, get comfortable, and let’s get started on our culinary journey through the world of pecans!
Classic Pecan Pie
A timeless American dessert classic, pecan pie is a rich and nutty delight that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe yields a perfectly gooey and flaky pie that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together corn syrup, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Stir in pecan halves and salt until nuts are evenly coated with the mixture.
4. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with the pecan mixture.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until filling is set and crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Maple Glazed Pecan Cookies
These cookies are a perfect combination of sweet and savory, with the richness of maple syrup and the crunch of pecans. They’re perfect for a quick snack or as a gift for friends and family.
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 packed light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– Maple syrup glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F. 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 and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Stir in chopped 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 brown.
Maple Syrup Glaze:
– Mix together 1/4 cup maple syrup and 1 tbsp powdered sugar. Drizzle over cooled cookies.
Pecan Crusted Chicken
Pecan Crusted Chicken: A Nutty Twist on a Classic
This recipe brings together the richness of pecans and the tenderness of chicken breasts, creating a delightful combination that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup pecan halves
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together pecans and panko breadcrumbs.
3. Dip each chicken breast into the pecan mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caramel Pecan Brownies
Moist, fudgy brownies infused with the deep flavor of caramel and crunchy texture of pecans – a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, plus more for greasing
– 2 cups (250g) sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (120g) pecan halves
– 1 cup (200g) caramel sauce, divided
– 1 and 1/4 cups (160g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan.
2. Melt butter and sugar in a medium saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth.
3. Remove from heat; whisk in eggs one at a time, then flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Stir in pecans, 1/2 cup caramel sauce, and chocolate chips.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan; drizzle with remaining caramel sauce.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pecan and Banana Bread
This moist and flavorful bread combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the rich nuttiness of pecans, perfect for a delicious breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, melted butter, and egg. 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 smooth top.
7. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes before transferring to a plate.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Spiced Pecan Trail Mix
Get your hiking boots ready with this addictive Spiced Pecan Trail Mix that’s perfect for snacking on the go!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, and pecans)
– 1 cup dried cranberries
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together nuts, cranberries, and chocolate chips.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together cinnamon, cayenne pepper, and salt.
4. Add the spice mixture to the nut mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Fold in chopped pecans.
6. Spread the trail mix on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes or until fragrant.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Pecan Stuffed Dates
A classic appetizer or snack that combines the natural sweetness of dates with the rich flavor of pecans, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 pitted dates
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese and honey until well combined.
3. Stuff each date with about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture.
4. Roll each stuffed date in chopped pecans, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place the stuffed dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the pecans are toasted.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves or parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pecan and Apple Salad
This refreshing salad combines the crunch of pecans with the sweetness of apples, all tied together with a tangy dressing. Perfect for a light and healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 Granny Smith apples, diced
– 1/2 cup pecan halves
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced apples, pecan halves, and crumbled blue cheese (if using).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the apple mixture and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Pecan Praline Cheesecake
Elevate your dessert game with this rich and creamy Pecan Praline Cheesecake, featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, caramelized pecans, and a velvety cheesecake filling.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup caramelized pecans (see note)
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare the crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour cheesecake batter into the prepared crust.
5. Top with caramelized pecans and confectioners’ sugar.
6. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
Note: Caramelize pecans by baking 1 cup of pecan halves at 350°F for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown.
Pecan and Chocolate Chip Muffins
These moist and flavorful muffins combine the rich flavors of pecans and chocolate chips, perfect for a sweet breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
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 melted butter, egg, and milk.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped pecans and chocolate chips.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until tops are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pecan Crusted Salmon
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and crunchy Pecan Crusted Salmon recipe. With a short cooking time and minimal prep work, you’ll be enjoying a delicious and healthy meal in no time!
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup pecans
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together pecans, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place salmon fillets in the pecan mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Tips:
– Make sure to press the pecans onto the salmon firmly to ensure even coating.
– Serve with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or quinoa.
Pecan and Cranberry Granola
This sweet and crunchy granola combines the rich flavor of pecans with the tartness of cranberries, perfect for a healthy snack or topping for your favorite yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, pecans, brown sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together honey, oil, and vanilla extract. Pour the mixture over the oat mixture and stir until combined.
4. Spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, until golden brown.
5. Remove from oven and let cool completely. Stir in dried cranberries.
6. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pecan Butter Cookies
These classic cookies are elevated by the addition of creamy pecan butter, creating a delightful flavor combination that’s sure to please. With just the right amount of crunch and chewiness, these treats are perfect for snacking or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup pecan butter (softened)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Optional: chopped pecans for garnish
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 together pecan butter and butter until smooth. Gradually add sugars; beat until combined.
4. Beat in eggs until well incorporated. Stir in the flour mixture until just combined.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes per batch
Pecan and Sweet Potato Casserole
This classic Southern-style casserole combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the rich flavor of pecans, creating a deliciously comforting side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup pecan halves
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, flour, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Mix until smooth.
3. Stir in melted butter and heavy cream until well combined.
4. Spread half of the sweet potato mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with pecan halves, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
6. Cover with remaining sweet potato mixture and smooth top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Pecan and Pumpkin Spice Latte
Elevate your fall coffee game with this rich and creamy Pecan and Pumpkin Spice Latte. The perfect blend of nutty pecans, warm pumpkin spice, and velvety espresso will keep you cozy on a crisp autumn morning.
Ingredients:
– 2 shots of strong espresso or brewed coffee
– 1/2 cup milk (whole, skim, or a non-dairy alternative)
– 1 tablespoon pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1 tablespoon pecan syrup or pecans chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew two shots of espresso or make a pot of coffee.
2. In a large mug, combine the milk, pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Whisk until smooth.
3. Add the espresso to the mug and stir well.
4. If using pecan syrup, add 1 tablespoon to the latte. Alternatively, sprinkle chopped pecans on top for added crunch.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (just blend and go!)
Pecan and Blueberry Pancakes
Start your day with a stack of fluffy pancakes packed with the rich flavor of pecans and the sweetness of blueberries. This recipe combines two beloved breakfast treats into one delicious morning delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup milk
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine sugar, melted butter, egg, and milk. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped pecans and blueberries.
6. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the preheated skillet or griddle.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on size of pancakes)
Pecan and Rosemary Roasted Nuts
Elevate your snack game with the perfect blend of earthy rosemary and rich pecans. This recipe yields a flavorful and crunchy treat that’s ideal for munching on its own or using as a topping for salads, yogurt, or oatmeal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pecan halves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped (about 2 teaspoons)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil and chopped rosemary.
3. Add pecan halves to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the rosemary-oil mixture.
4. Spread the nut mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet.
5. Roast for 10-12 minutes or until fragrant and lightly browned, stirring occasionally.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with salt to taste.
7. Allow nuts to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pecan and Dark Chocolate Bark
Transform your snack game with this rich and satisfying Pecan and Dark Chocolate Bark recipe! Crunchy pecans, velvety dark chocolate, and a hint of sea salt come together to create the perfect treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup (60g) pecan halves
– 1 tablespoon flaky sea salt
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Stir in the pecan halves and sea salt.
4. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
6. Break into pieces and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None (no cooking required)
Summary
Indulge in the rich flavor of pecans with these 18 decadent recipes! From classic desserts like Pecan Pie and Caramel Pecan Brownies to savory dishes like Pecan Crusted Chicken and Pecan Crusted Salmon, there’s something for every occasion. Sweet treats include Maple Glazed Pecan Cookies, Pecan Butter Cookies, and Pecan Praline Cheesecake, while healthier options feature Pecan and Banana Bread, Pecan and Apple Salad, and Spiced Pecan Trail Mix. Even try your hand at Pecan Stuffed Dates or Pecan and Cranberry Granola for a sweet and crunchy snack.
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