Arizona Pecan Nuggets are the perfect treat to satisfy your sweet tooth cravings with a touch of Southwestern flair. These delightful nuggets combine the rich nuttiness of pecans with a hint of sweetness, creating a delicious snack that’s sure to become a household favorite. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking for a tasty snack to enjoy with your afternoon tea, these Arizona Pecan Nuggets are a must-try!
**Arizona Pecan Nuggets**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups pecan halves
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the pecan halves evenly on the baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until fragrant. Be sure to watch them closely to prevent burning. Once toasted, remove them from the oven and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, unsalted butter, water, vanilla extract, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat to low and continue to cook the mixture, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the soft-ball stage (about 235-240°F or 113-116°C on a candy thermometer). This should take approximately 5-7 minutes.
4. Once the sugar mixture reaches the soft-ball stage, remove it from the heat and quickly stir in the toasted pecans until they are evenly coated.
5. Working quickly, drop spoonfuls of the pecan mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart to allow for spreading. Let the nuggets cool and harden at room temperature.
6. Once the Arizona Pecan Nuggets have completely cooled and hardened, you can serve them immediately or store them in an airtight container for later enjoyment. These nuggets make a delightful addition to any dessert platter or a thoughtful gift for friends and family.
These Arizona Pecan Nuggets are a delightful combination of crunchy pecans and sweet caramelized goodness, making them a treat that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re looking for a tasty snack to enjoy on your own or a unique dessert to share with loved ones, these nuggets are sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in the delicious flavors of the Southwest with these irresistible Arizona Pecan Nuggets!
