Here’s How To Toast Pecans for snacking or to use in recipes. Toast the pecans in the oven, skillet, or even the microwave.
My favorite nuts are pecans and walnuts. And have you ever noticed that when you look at the vast aisle of snacking nuts, NONE of them are containers of pecans or walnuts?
Sure you can get them in a mixed nut container but there are only a few in the whole package. But it is super easy to make your own. Today I’m sharing how to toast pecans so that you can make them yourself.
How To Toast Pecans In The Oven
Toasting pecans in the oven is the preferred method. You’ll get the most flavor from the pecans, and that is what we are looking for!
Spread the pecans out in a parchment-lined baking sheet. Then, melt some butter in the microwave, drizzle it over the pecans, and stir until they are coated with butter. Sprinkle them with sea salt and bake them into the oven at 350˚F for 6-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and toasted.
Why use butter when toasting pecans?
Coating the pecans with melted butter is an optional step, but it gives you the best flavor for snacking nuts.
On the other hand, if you are toasting the pecans to use in a recipe, you can skip the butter and salt if you prefer.
Can I add additional spices?
Yes, you can add additional spices after coating the pecans with melted butter! Add cajun seasoning, cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper to some heat.
For a savory option, sprinkle them with rosemary or garlic and herbs. And if you want something sweet, sprinkle with brown sugar and ground cinnamon.
How To Toast Pecans In A Skillet
The second-best option for toasting pecans is to use a skillet. Using this method will also give you that delicious roasted flavor.
First, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the pecans and stir until they are coated with butter. Then, sprinkle them with a little sea salt. Shake the pan to get them to spread out in a single layer.
Toast the pecans over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring often, until they are fragrant and toasted.
How To Toast Pecans In The Microwave
Finally, we have the microwave method. Toasting pecans in the microwave works in a pinch. It will give the pecans some of that toasted texture but, unfortunately, won’t give you the toasted flavor.
For the method, use HALF of the ingredients called for in the recipe so that they will fit on the plate. Melt the butter in the microwave in a small bowl. Add the pecans and stir until coated.
Spread out in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate. Sprinkle the pecans with a little sea salt and then cook on high for 1-3 minutes, depending on your microwave, stirring occasionally.
How To Chop Pecans
Place the pecans on a cutting board and use a large, sharp knife to chop them into pieces.
If your recipe calls for chopped pecans, you might be able to save money (and time) by buying pecan bits and pieces rather than starting with pecan halves. And you can toast the chopped pecans but will need to reduce the roasting time since the pieces are smaller.
How To Store Pecans
For the best results, fresh, shelled pecans, as well as toasted pecans, should be stored in the fridge or freezer.
After cooling the toasted pecans at room temperature, move them to an air-tight zip-top freezer-safe bag. Store the toasted pecans in the fridge for several months or in the freezer for up to a year.
Want More Pecan Recipes? Try These Next:
This Salted Caramel Pecan Bars recipe is a mouthwatering combination of salted caramel and chocolate with a crunch of chopped pecans.
This melt-in-your-mouth Salted Maple Pecan Fudge is perfect for the holidays. This Christmas dessert is a delicious cookie exchange recipe!
This Easy Pecan Pie without corn syrup is hands-down our FAVORITE PIE EVER and a must at Thanksgiving and Christmas. Includes tips for pecan pie problems!
This yummy Cheese Ball recipe with bacon and pecans is so easy to make. Put on a charcuterie board or serve with a variety of crackers as a party appetizer!
Strawberry Pecan Pretzel Salad is cool and creamy with caramelized brown sugar pretzels and diced strawberries. There won't be any leftovers of this dessert salad!
How To Toast Pecans
Video
Ingredients
- 2 cups pecans
- 2 tablespoon butter melted
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
Oven Method (Preferred)
- Spread the pecans out in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and drizzle with melted butter. Stir to coat. Sprinkle with sea salt.
- Bake at 350˚F for 6-10 minutes, until fragrant and toasted.
Skillet Method
- Melt butter in a large skillet. Add pecans and stir to coat. Sprinkle with salt. Shake pan to spread pecans out in a single layer.
- Cook in medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and toasted.
Microwave Method
- Only use HALF of the ingredients for this method. Coat pecans with melted butter. Sprinkle with sea salt. Spread out in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate.
- Cook on high for 1-3 minutes (depending on your microwave), stirring occasionally.
Lisa M Baker says
There are fantastic! I only improvised one thing— I added about a tablespoon of espresso powder because I thought it would be fun. This is a keeper!
Tonia says
That sounds fabulous! I’ll have to give it a try!
Karen Betancourt says
Very easy recipe and loved how it’s broken down… whether the nets are for snacking or a Recipe and the different options to roast them.