- Prepare the Egg White Mixture:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg white, vanilla extract, and water until frothy.
- Coat the Pecans:
- Add the pecan halves to the egg white mixture and stir until the pecans are well coated.
- Mix the Sugar Coating:
- In a separate small bowl, combine the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt.
- Coat the Pecans with Sugar Mixture:
- Pour the sugar mixture over the pecans and stir until all the pecans are evenly coated with the sugar mixture.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Air Fry the Pecans:
- Lightly grease the air fryer basket or use parchment paper to prevent sticking. Spread the coated pecans in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry the pecans at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket or stirring the pecans every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Cool the Pecans:
- Once the pecans are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the air fryer and spread them out on a baking sheet to cool completely. The pecans will continue to harden as they cool.
- Serve or Store:
- Once cooled, serve the candied pecans as a snack, salad topping, or dessert garnish. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Candied Pecans:
- Monitor Closely: Keep an eye on the pecans while air frying to prevent burning, as air fryers can vary in temperature.
- Even Coating: Ensure the pecans are evenly coated with the sugar mixture for consistent sweetness and crunch.
- Cooling: Allow the pecans to cool completely before storing to ensure they stay crispy.
Variations to Try:
- Spiced Pecans: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or nutmeg to the sugar mixture for a spicy twist.
- Maple Candied Pecans: Substitute some of the granulated sugar with maple syrup for a rich, caramelized flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
- Snack: Enjoy these candied pecans as a sweet snack on their own.
- Salad Topping: Sprinkle them over salads for added crunch and sweetness.
- Dessert Garnish: Use them as a topping for ice cream, cakes, or pies.
Conclusion:
Air Fryer Candied Pecans are a quick and easy treat that’s perfect for snacking, entertaining, or adding a sweet crunch to your favorite dishes. Enjoy the delightful combination of cinnamon, sugar, and pecans in this simple air fryer recipe!