Healthy Oven-Roasted Candied Pecans {sugar-free}

Ingredients:

2 Tablespoons organic grass-fed butter (raw if available)
1/4 cup dark maple syrup
1 teaspoon organic ground cinnamon or 1 Tablespoon pumpkin pie spice (optional)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cups raw, organic pecan halves

Directions:

  1. Line a large baking tray with parchment paper so the maple syrup doesn't stick to the pan.
  2. Heat the butter in a pot on the stove over low heat. Once melted, add the melted butter, maple syrup, and seasoning of choice to a medium bowl. Add the pecans and stir to coat.
  3. Pour the pecan mixture out evenly on the baking tray.
  4. Place in a 325 degree preheated oven. Bake for 15-25 minutes, stirring after 10 minutes, or until the maple syrup is mostly gone.
  5. Remove from the oven and stir once more. Be sure pecans are single layered on a baking sheet so they don't stick together. 
  6. Let cool and enjoy! Great party snack or an after dinner dessert. Also yummy in a salad.

Tips:

  1. Storage. Store in an airtight container once cooled up to 2 months.
  2. Maple Syrup Types. Dark maple syrup has a robust taste and is great for baking and candied nuts. If you'd like a lighter flavor that is more rich, choose an Amber maple syrup.
  3. Substitutions. Honey can be used in place of the maple syrup but it will need about 5 minutes longer in the oven.
  4. Homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice. Make your own by combining 2 teaspoons cinnamon, 1 teaspoon ginger, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, 1/8 teaspoon cloves, and 1/8 teaspoon allspice. This will make enough for this recipe.
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