Pecans

Carya illinoinensis Nut

Pecans Nut

At a Glance

  • Category Nut

The Forktionary Angle

"The Southern Gem: Celebrate the rich heritage and unparalleled buttery crunch of pecans, a versatile ingredient from appetizer to dessert."

Definition

A rich, buttery-flavored nut with a distinct sweet and earthy taste, native to North America, widely used in desserts and savory dishes.

Antioxidant Capacity (ORAC) Very High (highest among tree nuts)
Global Production (2020) ~180,000 metric tons
Unsaturated Fat Content ~90% (monounsaturated)

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Pecans are:

Buttery Rich Sweet Earthy Slightly Woody

Chef’s Secret

To enhance their flavor and crunch, lightly toast pecans in a dry pan or oven before using them in recipes. Watch carefully, as nuts burn quickly!

Best Substitutes

Walnuts

slightly more bitter
Ratio 1:1

Hazelnuts

rounder flavor
Ratio 1:1

Cashews

softer texture
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Purchase shelled pecans from stores with high turnover. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 9 months or freeze for up to 2 years to prevent rancidity.

Recipes Using Pecans

Course Brunch Main Ingredient Breads

Banana Orange Pecan Muffins

These moist and delicious Banana Orange Pecan Muffins are bursting with flavor! Made with fresh bananas, zesty orange, and crunchy pecans, these muffins are the perfect sweet treat for breakfast or a snack. Not overly sugary, they're the ideal balance of sweetness and wholesome goodness. Get ready to bake up a batch of pure deliciousness!

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Appetizers Course Dietary Low Carb

Apple Blue Cheese Spread

Delight your taste buds with this refreshing Apple Blue Cheese Spread! Perfect for spring and summer gatherings, this creamy dip combines the sweetness of apples with the tangy bite of blue cheese, all perfectly balanced by the subtle sharpness of red onion and crunchy pecans. Don't skip the onion – it truly elevates the flavor! Serve with triscuits or your favorite crackers for a simple yet unforgettable appetizer.

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Preparation Pineapple Salads 15 Minutes Or Less

5 Cup Ambrosia Salad

This dreamy 5-Cup Ambrosia Salad is the ultimate crowd-pleaser! A vibrant mix of sweet fruits and creamy coconut, it's perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a refreshing summer dessert. Customize it with mini marshmallows (white or colored!), or add crunchy pecans for extra texture. This easy recipe takes just minutes to prepare and chills to perfection.

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Time To Make 60 Minutes Or Less For Large Groups Course

Banana Bars With Toasted Pecan Frosting

Indulge in the ultimate banana treat! These irresistible Banana Bars boast a moist, flavorful banana base and are topped with a decadent toasted pecan frosting. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or any time you crave a sweet and satisfying snack. Even banana skeptics will be won over!

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Preparation Tropical Fruit Weeknight Main Ingredient

Banana Bourbon Cake With Bourbon Creme Anglaise

Indulge in the irresistible combination of sweet bananas and rich bourbon in this decadent Banana Bourbon Cake. Topped with a luscious, boozy Bourbon Crème Anglaise, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Perfect for special occasions or a weekend treat, this recipe delivers a sophisticated dessert experience.

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Dietary Breads Preparation 30 Minutes Or Less

Best Banana Bread Or Muffins

Indulge in the ultimate banana bread or muffins recipe! This recipe is incredibly moist, perfectly sweet, and bursting with banana flavor. Easy to follow instructions guide you to baking success, whether you prefer the comforting loaf of bread or individual muffins. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet afternoon treat!

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Kid Friendly Oamc Freezer Make Ahead To Go Fruit

Baked Chicken With Honey And Pecans

This recipe is a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors! Imagine juicy, tender chicken coated in a crunchy pecan-honey glaze – a taste sensation that's almost like a praline-inspired dinner. It's surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal prep work. The honey-pecan topping adds the perfect touch of sweetness without being overly sugary, creating a balanced and unforgettable dish. Get ready for rave reviews!

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From Scratch Time To Make Desserts Cakes

Banana Nut Pound Cake

Winner of Better Homes and Gardens' Reader Recipe of the Year (2012)! This decadent Banana Nut Pound Cake is unbelievably moist and bursting with flavor. The perfect blend of sweet bananas, crunchy pecans, and a hint of bourbon creates a truly unforgettable treat. Easy to follow instructions guarantee baking success for both novice and experienced bakers.

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Dietary Preparation Apples Main Ingredient

Apple Crisp The Neely's

Experience the irresistible charm of Apple Crisp, inspired by Down Home with the Neelys! This simple yet scrumptious recipe delivers a warm, comforting dessert with a perfectly crisp topping. Easy to follow instructions and a short prep time make this the ideal recipe for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend treat. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this Food Network-worthy classic!

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Fruit Occasion Grains Pasta Rice And Grains

Oatmeal Raisin Bar Cookies

Indulge in these thick, chewy, and utterly irresistible Oatmeal Raisin Bar Cookies! Perfect for the holidays or any day you crave a comforting treat. This recipe, adapted from the baking blog "baking bites," ensures moist, tender bars with a delightful balance of sweet and chewy. Don't overbake – the secret to perfection is a slightly gooey center! Get ready for the ultimate oatmeal raisin cookie experience.

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Desserts Fruit Pies And Tarts Nuts

Apple Date And Pecan Pie

Indulge in the irresistible flavors of autumn with this Apple Date & Pecan Pie! Sweet, tart apples mingle with chewy dates and crunchy pecans in a rich, buttery crust. This easy-to-follow recipe delivers a show-stopping dessert perfect for Thanksgiving, holiday gatherings, or a cozy night in. Get ready for a taste of fall perfection!

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Time To Make Dietary 3 Steps Or Less Low Sodium

Bananas Foster Sundaes

Indulge in a guilt-free dessert sensation! This lightened-up Bananas Foster Sundae recipe, inspired by Lisa Varner's June/July 2009 Healthy Cooking magazine, is surprisingly easy to make and delivers a burst of flavor. We've reduced the calories and used Splenda brown sugar substitute for a healthier twist. Get ready for caramelized bananas, warm spices, and creamy ice cream – the perfect ending to any meal!

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30 Minutes Or Less Fruit Dietary Pancakes And Waffles

Apple Pecan Pancakes

Start your day with the irresistible taste of our Apple Pecan Pancakes! This recipe combines juicy apples, sweet raisins, crunchy pecans, and a zesty hint of lemon for a breakfast that's both delicious and surprisingly healthy. Imagine fluffy pancakes bursting with flavor, perfectly paired with a steaming cup of coffee. These pancakes are so good, no one will guess how nutritious they are! Make a big batch – they're fantastic reheated or enjoyed cold on the go.

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Kid Friendly Potluck Occasion Equipment

5 Ingredient Dump Cake

Craving a ridiculously easy dessert? This 5-ingredient pineapple cherry dump cake is your answer! No mixing, no bowls, just pure deliciousness. Sweet pineapple, tart cherries, and buttery cake mix combine for a stunningly simple dessert that's ready in under an hour. Perfect for busy weeknights or effortless entertaining!

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Course Desserts Cookies And Brownies Hand Formed Cookies

Bailey's Irish Cream Balls

Indulge in the decadent delight of homemade Bailey's Irish Cream Truffles! This irresistible recipe creates creamy, melt-in-your-mouth truffles rolled in sweet powdered sugar. Perfect for parties, holidays, or a special treat, these easy-to-make confections are sure to impress. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Eggs Dairy Nuts Preparation Eggs Dairy

Baked Blueberry Pecan French Toast With Blueberry Syrup

Start your day with this incredible Baked Blueberry Pecan French Toast! This make-ahead recipe is perfect for busy mornings. Soak the French toast overnight – it's like a delicious bread pudding – then bake until golden brown and bubbly. The crunchy pecans and sweet blueberry syrup make it an unforgettable breakfast treat. Serve with coffee, juice, and fresh fruit for a complete and satisfying meal.

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Low Fat Preparation Dietary Easy

Aunt Bev's Fruit Cocktail Cake

This moist and easy-to-make fruit cocktail cake is a family favorite! A treasured recipe passed down for over 30 years, it's perfect for any occasion. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or your favorite whipped topping for a delightful treat. Get ready to experience a taste of tradition!

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4 Hours Or Less 4 Hours Or Less Desserts Main Ingredient

Apple Spice Naughty Nice Bread Pudding

Indulge in this irresistible Apple Spice Naughty Nice Bread Pudding! A comforting and flavorful baked delight, perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion. Easily customizable for individual servings (muffin tins) or a large family-style dish (9x13 pan). This recipe features a decadent grown-up sauce (optional) and a kid-friendly option, making it a crowd-pleaser for all ages. Make ahead and bake fresh in the morning for ultimate convenience!

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