Toasting pecans enhances their buttery flavor. It also adds a satisfying, snappy crunch, bringing a delightful texture that elevates many dishes. Once you toast pecans, you can add them to various recipes, including a classic pecan pie, a salad or baked goods like cookies.
While this guide focuses on toasting dry pecans, you can also toss pecans in oil or butter before toasting for additional flavor or as a base for adding coatings.
Once you toast pecans, use them immediately or store them in an airtight container on the counter for up to a week. In the fridge, toasted pecans last about nine months, and they last about a year in the freezer. Here are a few methods for toasting pecans.
How to Toast Pecans in the Oven
The oven works well for making a big batch of pecans, though it takes slightly longer than other methods due to preheating time. Follow these steps to toast pecans in the oven:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Spread the pecans in a single layer on a large, rimmed baking sheet. To make clean up easier, use parchment paper or foil underneath.
- Bake the pecans for 6 to 15 minutes, flipping with a spatula halfway through. Look for a deep brown shade and a fragrant smell. Watch them closely to avoid burning.
- Once toasted, remove the pecans from the oven and let them fully cool on the baking sheet before using or storing them.
How to Toast Pecans on the Stove
The stove is a convenient alternative if you want to avoid turning on your oven. It works best for smaller batches. Here's how you toast pecans on the stove:
- Choose a medium or large skillet and warm it over medium-high heat. You don't need to add oil.
- Once the skillet is hot, place the pecans in, making sure to avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding can cause uneven roasting.
- Let pecans roast for about 1 minute undisturbed, then stir or shake the pan occasionally until the nuts are fragrant with mottled or golden brown spots. Toasting should take about 2 to 7 minutes. Keep close to the stove, as pecans burn quickly.
- Transfer toasted pecans to a heat-safe plate or cutting board to cool down before storing or using them.
How to Toast Pecans in the Air Fryer or Microwave
An air fryer or microwave offers simple options for toasting pecans. They work well for smaller batches and often take less time and minimal preparation.
To toast pecans in an air fryer, set the temperature to 320°F. Place a single layer of pecans inside and toast until fragrant, about 3 to 8 minutes. This method doesn't require stirring or shaking since the appliance circulates heated air inside.
To toast pecans in a microwave, spread them out on a microwave-safe dish, like a plate. Microwave on high heat for 30-second intervals until fragrant. The cooking time depends on your microwave's wattage.
Get Some Delicious Georgia Pecans
No matter the toasting method, the secret to exceptional results begins with the pecans you use. Dickey Farms offers exceptional Georgia-grown pecans with a delectable flavor that gets even better when toasted. Visit our farm shop or order a bag online today.
