Sugar Free Candied Pecans

If you’re craving a deliciously sweet snack without the added sugar, this Sugar Free Candied Pecans recipe is your perfect solution. Made with simple ingredients and naturally sugar-free sweeteners, these crunchy pecans are a great low-carb snack that fits perfectly into a keto diet or any healthy lifestyle.

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This recipe for Sugar-Free Candied Pecans is a family favorite in our home. My kids can’t get enough of the crunchy sweetness, and my husband loves adding them to his favorite snacks, from trail mix to salads. What’s really special about this recipe is how many times people have tried them at holiday parties or family gatherings and been shocked to find out they’re sugar-free! They always ask, “Are you sure there’s no real sugar in these?” It’s so rewarding to see the surprised look on their faces when I explain how sugar alternatives like Stevia make this sweet treat a reality without the extra carbs or added sugar.

This recipe is near and dear to my heart because it’s one I’ve been tweaking and perfecting for about four years. From experimenting with different sugar substitutes to adjusting the seasoning mix, I’ve poured a lot of love into making it just right. Now it’s my go-to for Christmas parties, potlucks, and even as a last-minute edible gift. The best part is how versatile it is—it’s fabulous as a snack or a salad topper, and it pairs beautifully with other holiday dishes. I know this recipe will be a staple in our home for years to come, and I hope it becomes a favorite in your family too!

Jump to:

• Ingredients
• Why You'll Love This Recipe
• Instructions
• Variations
• Equipment
• Storage
• FAQ
• Related
• Sugar Free Candied Pecans

Ingredients

• Pecans
• Egg white
• Truvia or Gentle Sweet (a Stevia-based sweetener)
• Cinnamon
• Molasses
• Salt
• Nutmeg

Note - you can also do a mix of pecan halves and pecan pieces.

See the recipe card for quantities.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Low Carb & Keto-Friendly: With no added sugar, these pecans are ideal for a low-carb or keto diet.
• Simple Ingredients: You likely already have everything you need in your pantry.
• Versatile Snack: Enjoy them as a sweet treat, a salad topper, or even a crunchy topping for keto ice cream.

Instructions

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Hint: Humidity in your kitchen can affect the hardening time, so be patient—it’s worth the wait!

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chipotle powder to the coating for a bold, spicy-sweet flavor.
• Pumpkin Spice Pecans: Substitute the cinnamon and nutmeg with 1 tablespoon of pumpkin pie spice for a cozy holiday twist.
• Vanilla Sweetness: Add ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract to the egg white mixture for a hint of vanilla in every bite.
• Mixed Nuts: Replace some pecans with walnut halves, almonds, or even cashews for a nutty variety.
• Air Fryer Method: Use an air fryer at 300°F for about 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for a quicker cooking process.

Equipment

I love using silicon mats for these types of recipes. The clean-up is a breeze! Here are some of the equipment you may need.

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups & spoons
• Silicon mat
• Baking sheet
• Spatula
• Storage container

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Storage

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, a freezer-safe container works best.

FAQ

Can I use a different sugar substitute?
Absolutely! Monk fruit sweetener or erythritol are great alternatives to Truvia or Gentle Sweet. Just be mindful of the sweetness level, as some substitutes are less sweet than others.

Can I make these in advance for holiday parties?
Yes! These pecans are a great idea for prepping ahead. Make them up to a week in advance and store them in a cool, dry place.

Can I use this recipe with other nuts?
Definitely! This recipe works wonderfully with different nuts like walnuts, almonds, or cashews. Adjust the cooking time slightly for smaller nuts to avoid burning.

What can I pair these with?
They’re perfect as a crunchy topping for salads with goat cheese and balsamic vinaigrette, mixed into low-carb trail mix, or even as a side to sweet potatoes for a sweet-and-savory combo.

Related

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