Orange-Sugared Pecans

Total Time:Prep: 15 min. + standing

By Taste Of Home Editorial Team

Recipe by Nancy Johnson

Tested by Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Updated on Oct. 13, 2022

I regularly cook up these candied pecans for Christmas gift-giving and family munching. The citrusy-sweet flavor is different and delicious.

TEST KITCHEN APPROVED

Orange-Sugared Pecans

Yield:2-1/2 dozen
Prep:15 min

Ingredients

  • 1-1/2 cups sugar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 3 tablespoons orange juice concentrate
  • 2 cups pecan halves
  • 1/2 teaspoon grated orange zest
Shop Recipe

Directions

  1. In a large heavy saucepan, combine the sugar, water and orange juice concentrate. Cook over medium-high heat, without stirring, until a candy thermometer reads 238° (soft-ball stage). Remove from the heat; stir in pecans and orange zest.
  2. Beat until mixture thickens and loses its gloss, about 2 minutes. Drop by teaspoonfuls onto waxed paper to set. Store in an airtight container.