These healthy candied pecans are delicious for snacks or on top of salads. This vegan, keto candied pecans recipe uses coconut oil (a healthy, vegan alternative to butter) and stevia (a 100% natural, zero calorie sweetener) to get a great Buttery-Cinnamon flavor on the Pecans. Stevia is the most keto-compatible sugar substitute available since it is a sweetener with a low glycemic index. Thanks to Debbie Johnson, author of Fun With Gluten-Free, Low Glycemic Food Cookbook (Amazon affiliate link) for sharing this delicious candied pecans recipe.
Pecan Glycemic Index
Nuts are a healthy snack choice. Pecans have a glycemic index (GI) of approximately 10, which is considered very low. This means they have minimal impact on blood sugar levels when consumed in moderation. Pecans are also rich in healthy fats, fiber, and protein, which can help stabilize blood sugar levels further by slowing down the absorption of glucose into the bloodstream. They’re an excellent choice for maintaining steady energy levels and supporting a low-GI diet.
Easy, Vegan Candied Pecans (Keto-friendly):
Serves: Well, that depends on your snack attack, but these keto roasted pecans are likely to serve at least four.
Simple Ingredients:
- ½ pound raw pecans
- 1 Tablespoon Coconut Oil (great for Vegans) or ghee (clarified butter)
- 1/8 teaspoon Celtic Sea Salt or Himalayan Salt, or more to taste
- ¼ teaspoon Sweet Leaf Stevia, or more to taste
- 1 Tablespoon Ground Cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
How To Make Candied Pecans With Stevia:
1. Heat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lay pecans out in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast pecans for 10 to 15 minutes, depending on size.
2. Melt Ghee or Coconut Oil in saucepan large enough to hold pecans after they are roasted.
3. Blend in salt, stevia, cinnamon, and vanilla to the coconut oil.
4. Toss hot, roasted pecans in pot with melted sauce and stir to coat.
5. Then lay them out in an even layer on parchment paper to dry so they don’t stick together. Let the candied pecans cool and serve slightly warm or cold.
Enjoy this high protein, vegan snack as is or add the healthy candied pecans to salads. Pecans are a great source of protein and magnesium (known for anti-inflammatory benefits). They also have the added benefit of being boosting immunity and being heart healthy! So go ahead, enjoy your lightly sweet snack.
Printable Healthy Candied Pecans Recipe Card
Easy Healthy Candied Pecans Recipe
Ingredients
- ½ pound pecans
- 1 Tablespoon Coconut Oil (great for Vegans) or ghee (clarified butter)
- 1/8 teaspoon Celtic or Himalayan Salt, or more to taste
- ¼ teaspoon Sweet Leaf Stevia, or more to taste
- 1 Tablespoon Cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Lay pecans out on a cookie sheets and roast pecans for 10 to 15 minutes, depending on size.
- Melt Ghee or Coconut Oil in saucepan large enough to hold pecans after they are roasted.
- Blend in salt, stevia, cinnamon, and vanilla in with the coconut oil to create a sauce.
- Toss hot, roasted pecans in pot with melted sauce and stir to coat.
- Then lay coated pecans out of parchment paper to dry so they don't stick together.
- Let the candied pecans cool and serve slightly warm or cold.
Nutrition Facts
Easy Healthy Candied Pecans Recipe
Serves: 8
|
Amount Per Serving: 1/4 cup
|
||
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 213.34 kcal | |
| % Daily Value* | ||
| Total Fat 22.12 g | 33.8% | |
| Saturated Fat 3.23 g | 15% | |
| Trans Fat 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol 0.0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium 36.44 mg | 1.5% | |
| Total Carbohydrate 4.86 g | 1.3% | |
| Dietary Fiber 3.24 g | 12% | |
| Sugars 1.16 g | ||
| Protein 2.64 g | ||
| Vitamin A 0.11 % | Vitamin C 0.39 % | |
| Calcium 2.97 % | Iron 4.44 % | |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Family Focus Blog
Stevia Candied Pecans Conclusion
Using stevia for keto candied pecans is a healthier alternative to traditional sugar because:
- Low Glycemic Index: Stevia has a glycemic index of 0, meaning it doesn’t raise blood sugar levels, making it ideal for people managing diabetes or those on a low-sugar diet.
- Reduced Calories: Stevia is calorie-free, so it helps create a sweet treat with fewer calories compared to sugar.
- Natural Sweetener: Derived from the leaves of the stevia plant, it’s a natural option compared to artificial sweeteners.
- Maintains Sweetness: Stevia provides the sweetness you want for candied pecans without the negative effects of refined sugar.
You and your kids will both love these vegan candied nuts. They make such a tasty snack! Pecans are high in protein and a good dietary fiber source. Pecans also contain healthy fats. Another reason you will love snacking on pecans is that they are full of antioxidants that make pecans a heart healthy snack to lower cholesterol. Store these vegan candied pecans in an airtight container such as a mason jar. They make great DIY gifts for the holiday season.
Pecans make the perfect snack with the perfect crunch and amazing flavor. Do you think you will try this healthy candied pecans recipe? What are your favorite ways to eat candied pecans? I love homemade candied pecans by themselves, over vanilla ice cream, or in trail mix! They can even be used as a fun salad topper or a great gift. Do you like the healthy substitutions in this easy recipe?
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Robin says
I love nut recipes. How yummy! My whole family loved them. I am going to make this candied pecan recipe again soon.
Perry Perkins says
This is the easiest candied pecans recipe! Made these for Christmas, SO good! I’m from Georgia, so I love my pecans, lol.
Thanks for the simple recipe!
An Orthodontist From Des Moines says
Candied pecans have several nutritional facts and the health benefits. Research shows that eating a handful of pecans each day may be as effective at lowering LDL bad cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease. Good recipe for a lower glycemic index.
Lucy says
These healthy candied pecans look like a perfect snack! Simple to make and a great combination of sweet and crunchy. Perfect for adding to salads or enjoying on their own.
William says
This recipe looks delicious! I love how simple the ingredients are. Can’t wait to try it out this weekend – if I can manage not to eat all the raw pecan halves first! Thanks for sharing. These will be great last-minute gifts.
Kidzonia says
These candied pecans are absolutely addictive! I can’t stop snacking on them. The flavor is perfect and the texture is so crunchy. Thank you for sharing this amazing recipe!
Mercy says
A sweet and crunchy treat that’s keto-friendly. Thanks for sharing delicious recipe