Nut | Gluten Free Low Carb Vegetarian

Pecans

Carya illinoinensis Allergens: Tree Nuts
pecans

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Juglandaceae
  • Primary Cuisine North American
  • Seasonality Late Fall to Winter (Peak); Year-Round (Processed)
  • Source Pecan tree

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 type of edible nut, native to the Americas, known for its buttery flavor and rich, crunchy texture, widely used in baking and savory dishes.

Sensory Profile

TasteButtery, earthy, slightly sweet
TextureCrunchy, oily, firm
AromaNutty, woody
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Antioxidant Capacity (ORAC)

Very High (highest among tree nuts)

Global Production (2020)

~180,000 metric tons

Unsaturated Fat Content

~90% (monounsaturated)

Nutrition Facts

Per 28g (1/4 cup)
Calories691 kcal
Total Fat71.97g
Saturated Fat6.18g
Trans Fat0g
Cholesterol0mg
Protein9.17g
Total Carbohydrate13.86g
Dietary Fiber9.6g
Total Sugars3.97g
Calcium70mg
Iron2.53mg
Potassium410mg

Chef’s Secret

Toasting pecans briefly enhances their natural oils and deepens their buttery, nutty flavor, crucial for pies and garnishes.

Substitutions

Best Match

Walnuts

1:1

Similar texture and fat content, good for baking and savory dishes.

Macadamia Nuts

1:1

Higher fat, very buttery, excellent for richness in desserts.

Almonds (sliced)

1:1

Good textural substitute for crunch, though less buttery flavor.

Cashews

1:1

Softer texture, but offers a rich, creamy note in some applications.

Buying Guide

Choose pecans that are plump, unbroken, and free from cracks. Store in the refrigerator or freezer for freshness.

Flavor Pairings

Maple syrup brown sugar chocolate bourbon sweet potato chicken salads.

Recipes Using Pecans

Easy Presentation Main Ingredient Course

Turtle Squares

Indulge in these irresistible Turtle Squares! A perfect blend of buttery shortbread, crunchy pecans, and rich chocolate, this easy recipe is guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth. Perfect for holidays, parties, or a special treat any time.

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Eggs Dairy Seasonal Desserts Low In Something

4 Layer Pumpkin Dessert

Unearth a family treasure! This 4-layer pumpkin dessert recipe, discovered on an old home's wall, is a nostalgic favorite. Layers of creamy pumpkin, dreamy filling, and cool whip create a sensational flavor explosion. Perfect for fall gatherings or a cozy night in!

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Picnic Dinner Party Main Ingredient Canadian

A Different Cake

Tired of leftover cake going to waste? This recipe solves that problem! This easy recipe creates a perfectly portioned 9-inch round cake, bursting with delicious flavor. Enjoy a fresh, homemade treat anytime without the guilt of excess. Perfect for a cozy night in or a small celebration.

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To Go Main Ingredient Dietary Meat

A Different Layered Salad

Reimagine the classic layered salad! This vibrant and flavorful recipe puts a fun, modern spin on a childhood favorite. Forget the usual peas and bacon – this version features juicy chicken, crisp veggies, and a creamy, dreamy dressing. Perfect for potlucks, parties, or a light yet satisfying weeknight meal. Get ready to impress!

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Time To Make Salads Occasion 4 Hours Or Less

A Wild Ride On The Half Shell

Experience a culinary adventure with this vibrant and flavorful wild rice salad! A perfect appetizer, side dish, or vegetarian main course, this recipe boasts a delightful mix of nutty wild and brown rice, a zesty vinaigrette, plump sweet fruit, crunchy pecans, and creamy avocado. The recipe is easy to follow, making it perfect for both beginner and experienced cooks. Prepare to be amazed by the incredible combination of textures and tastes!

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Low Protein Healthy Low In Something Preparation

Apple Spinach Salad

This vibrant Apple Spinach Salad is a delightful combination of sweet and savory! Crisp apples and tender spinach are tossed in a warm bacon dressing with a hint of maple and apple cider vinegar. A quick and easy recipe perfect for a light lunch or a satisfying side dish. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Desserts Fruit Cuisine Preparation

Apple And Pecan Cake

Indulge in this moist and delicious Apple & Pecan Cake, a guilt-free treat perfect for those watching their sugar intake! Adapted from the Australian Diabetes Cookbook, this recipe uses wholesome ingredients and is surprisingly easy to make. The warm spices and crunchy pecans complement the sweet apples beautifully, creating a delightful autumnal flavor that everyone will love. Enjoy a slice (or two!) of this healthier, diabetic-friendly cake.

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Apples Course Fruit Quick Breads

Apple Nut Muffins

These delightful apple nut muffins are like mini coffee cakes you can enjoy anywhere! Perfect for picnics, school lunches, or a quick office snack. Bursting with warm cinnamon spice and sweet apples, these muffins are a delicious treat for any time of day. Get ready for a taste of autumn in every bite!

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3 Steps Or Less 3 Steps Or Less 15 Minutes Or Less Preparation

Arctic Wastes Smoothie

Escape the summer heat with this refreshing Arctic Wastes Smoothie! Blended from frozen fruits, berries, and nuts, this icy treat is packed with flavor and nutrients. A quick and easy recipe perfect for a hot day's cool-down. #smoothierecipe #summerrecipe #healthyrecipe #arcticsmoothie #frozenfruit

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Gifts Weeknight Oven Occasion

Aunt Carrie's Banana Bread

This isn't just banana bread; it's a legend! For over 50 years, this recipe (from a cherished, yellowed newspaper clipping) has been a family favorite. My Aunt Carrie, a renowned caterer, considered this her most requested treat. Her handwritten success notes are testament to its irresistible flavor. Get ready to bake a slice of history – moist, nutty, and utterly unforgettable!

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Salads Main Ingredient 3 Steps Or Less 15 Minutes Or Less

Autumn Chopped Salad

Crisp lettuce, juicy pears, sweet cranberries, crunchy pecans, and salty bacon tossed in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette (recipe #475073 recommended!). This vibrant Autumn Chopped Salad is the perfect light yet satisfying meal or side dish for your fall gatherings. Easy to make in just 15 minutes!

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Number Of Servings Eggs Dairy Cuisine Vegetables

Baby Greens With Pears Gorgonzola And Pecans

A delightful salad featuring tender baby greens, sweet ripe pears, creamy Gorgonzola cheese, and crunchy toasted pecans. The honey mustard dressing perfectly complements the mix of textures and flavors. This elegant yet easy-to-make salad is the perfect side dish for pork or chicken, or a light and satisfying lunch on its own! #saladrecipe #pearsalad #gorgonzola #pecans #honeymustard #easyrecipe #dinnerside #lunchrecipe

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3 Steps Or Less 15 Minutes Or Less Easy Number Of Servings

Bacon Cheddar Cheese Ball

Spice up your next party with this irresistible Bacon Cheddar Cheese Ball! Creamy cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and a hint of Tabasco (optional) create a flavor explosion that's perfect served with buttery crackers. Easily customizable to your taste, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Get ready for rave reviews!

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5 Ingredients Or Less Spreads Number Of Servings Inexpensive

Bahama Mamma Breakfast Spread

Escape to paradise with this tropical twist on breakfast! Our Bahama Mama Breakfast Spread is a vibrant and flavorful alternative to plain cream cheese, bursting with the bright flavors of pineapple, coconut, and a hint of rum. Quick and easy to make (ready in 5 minutes!), it's the perfect topping for toast, bagels, waffles, or even fresh fruit. Start your day with a taste of the islands!

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Bananas For Large Groups Presentation Main Ingredient

Banana Layer Cake With Cream Cheese Frosting

Indulge in this unbelievably moist banana layer cake, where mashed bananas create a luxuriously tender crumb. A dreamy cream cheese frosting elevates this classic dessert to new heights. This recipe, originally discovered on AOL, is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Customize it with pecans, coconut, or chocolate curls – or enjoy its simple elegance. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Easy Desserts Low Protein Cookies And Brownies

Best Apple Bars

Indulge in these incredibly moist apple bars, bursting with the sweet and tangy flavor of freshly grated apples. A rich caramel frosting adds the perfect touch of decadence. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for snack time with coffee or as a delightful dessert. The grated apples release their juices, resulting in unbelievably moist and flavorful bars. So easy to make and always a winner!

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North American Time To Make Occasion Desserts

Best Pecan Pie Tarts

Get ready to experience the most incredible pecan pie tarts you'll ever taste! This easy-to-follow recipe, adapted from Abby's famous column, delivers melt-in-your-mouth perfection. Crisp, buttery crusts cradle a rich, nutty pecan filling – guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser for holidays or any special occasion. Make a show-stopping pie or individual tarts – the choice is yours!

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Time To Make Preparation Holiday Event Course

Better Than Sex Aka Texas Dessert

Indulge in this decadent Texas-style dessert, famously known as 'Better Than Sex'! Layers of buttery pecan crust, creamy cream cheese filling, rich vanilla and chocolate pudding, and a luscious Cool Whip topping create a symphony of flavors. Perfect for birthdays, Valentine's Day, or any special occasion. This irresistible recipe is sure to become a family favorite. For extra richness, use French vanilla Cool Whip.

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