How to Make Smoked Candied Pecans

Recipes
By Robert Cole
Smoked candied pecans cooking in a Z Grill pellet smoker with visible smoke and grill basket

I love flavored nuts of all kinds, but candied nuts are definitely at the top of my list. There’s something about that perfect balance of sweet and smoky that makes these treats absolutely irresistible.

Whether I’m putting together a snack for game day or looking for something special to serve guests, these smoked candied pecans never disappoint. The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and that subtle smoke flavor creates a taste that’s way better than anything you can buy at the store.

While I prefer making these in my Z Grill pellet smoker because the smoke adds that extra layer of flavor, you can absolutely make them in your regular oven if you don’t have a smoker. The key is keeping the temperature low and steady so the sugar coating caramelizes without burning.

Trust me, once you try these, you’ll be making them all the time.

Disclosure: This website may earn a commission from links to products contained in the article. Please read to the end of the article before clicking a link.

My Thoughts on the Z Grill 10502B Wi-Fi

I’ve been using the Z Grill 10502B Wi-Fi for this recipe and it’s been fantastic. The temperature control stays rock solid at 235°F, which is exactly what you need for candied pecans. The Wi-Fi feature lets me monitor everything from inside the house, and the cherry pellets it came with give these nuts an amazing flavor. If you’re looking for a reliable pellet smoker that makes recipes like this foolproof, the Z Grill 1052B is definitely worth considering.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup pecans (or 2 cups for less sweet coating)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/8 cup light corn syrup
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (freshly grated preferred)
  • Pinch of salt (if using unsalted pecans)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your pellet smoker to 235°F (or oven to 250°F if not using a smoker).
  2. In a saucepan, combine water, corn syrup, and sugar in that order. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar completely dissolves. Remove from heat once the mixture is clear and liquid.
  3. Add pecans to the sugar mixture and stir to coat evenly.
  4. Sprinkle cinnamon and nutmeg over the pecans and toss to distribute the spices throughout.
  5. Spread the coated pecans in a single layer on a grill basket or baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If using a smoker, place a drip tray underneath to catch any drippings.
  6. Smoke for 30 minutes, stirring gently halfway through. For oven method, bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring once at the 15-minute mark.
  7. Remove when pecans are caramelized and fragrant. Let cool completely before breaking apart any clusters.

I use a heat-resistant silicone spatula to stir the pecans – it won’t scratch your grill basket and handles the heat perfectly.

Summary

Now you know how to make smoked candied pecans that are the perfect snack for any occasion. The low temperature cooking method ensures the sugar coating caramelizes properly without burning, while the smoke adds a depth of flavor you can’t get any other way.

If you prefer a less sweet version like I do, simply double the amount of pecans while keeping the sugar mixture the same. Store them in an airtight container for up to a week, though they probably won’t last that long. Whether you’re making them for yourself or as a gift, these pecans are guaranteed to be a hit.

Check out my YouTube channel and this companion video.