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

Potatoes Vegetables Main Ingredient Yams Sweet Potatoes

Missy's Sweet Potato Casserole

This is the family-favorite sweet potato casserole recipe I've used for years—so good, you'll want it for dessert! Perfectly spiced and topped with a crunchy crumble, it's the star side dish for your Thanksgiving feast or any special occasion. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Preparation Main Ingredient Low In Something Dietary

2Bleu's No Bake Peanut Butter Granola Bars

Fuel your day with these delicious and healthy No-Bake Peanut Butter Granola Bars! A perfect low-calorie breakfast or afternoon snack, these 'big' bars are packed with oats, crunchy cereal, and your favorite fruits and nuts. Quick and easy to make (ready in under 15 minutes!), they're the perfect grab-and-go treat. Customize them with your favorite mix-ins for a truly satisfying and customizable snack!

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Preparation Easter Picnic European

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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Dietary Preparation Main Ingredient Lunch

All Natural Granola Bars

Tired of sugary, processed granola bars? This recipe delivers a delicious, healthy alternative bursting with flavor! Made with simple, wholesome ingredients like honey, peanut butter, and oats, these homemade granola bars are surprisingly easy to make and completely customizable to your taste. Perfect for busy mornings, school lunches, or a healthy afternoon snack, these bars are naturally sweet and satisfying—no corn syrup or refined sugar needed! Get ready to ditch the store-bought bars and embrace the goodness of homemade!

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Tropical Fruit Course Number Of Servings Seasonal

Aloha Dip

Escape to paradise with this vibrant and refreshing Aloha Dip! Perfect for summer parties, BBQs, or a casual weeknight snack, this creamy dip is always a crowd-pleaser. Traditionally served in a pineapple half for a stunning presentation, this recipe is easy to make and tastes even better chilled. Get ready for a taste of the islands!

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Presentation Vegetables Eggs Dairy Inexpensive

Amazing Cheese Truffles

Elevate your next gathering with these irresistible Amazing Cheese Truffles! A delightful twist on a classic, these creamy, cheesy bites are easy to make and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Get ready for rave reviews! (Prep time excludes chilling)

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Time To Make Occasion 60 Minutes Or Less Beef

Andouille Beef Burgers With Blue Cheese

Elevate your burger game with this gourmet recipe! Inspired by Bon Appetit (July 06), these juicy Andouille beef burgers are packed with flavor. The smoky andouille sausage, crunchy pecans, and creamy blue cheese create a symphony of textures and tastes. Pan-fried to perfection, this recipe is a must-try for burger enthusiasts. A unique twist on a classic, guaranteed to impress!

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Main Ingredient Number Of Servings Gifts Preparation

Apple Danish Braid

This Apple Danish Braid recipe is incredibly easy, using store-bought crescent roll dough for a quick and delicious treat! Skip the scoring with recipe creations crescent roll dough for even simpler prep. Flaky layers of buttery dough encase a sweet and cinnamon-spiced apple filling, creating a stunning braid that's perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this unbelievably easy and satisfying recipe!

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North American Preparation Appetizers Eggs Dairy

Apple Jack Spread

Inspired by a Portland Junior League gathering at L.L. Bean, this creamy Apple Jack Spread is a delightful appetizer or snack! This easy-to-make dip combines sharp cheddar and cream cheese with the sweetness of apples and a hint of savory chives. Topped with crunchy pecans, it's the perfect party starter or a delicious addition to your next gathering. Serve with crackers, apple slices, or baguette slices for a sophisticated yet simple treat!

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Course Breads Preparation Course

Apple Cherry Pie Loaves

Delight your friends and family this holiday season with these irresistible Apple Cherry Pie Loaves! This quick bread recipe, discovered in a trove of vintage recipe clippings, combines the comforting flavors of apple and cherry in a delightful mini loaf format – perfect for gifting or enjoying yourself. Get ready to bake up a batch of warm, spiced goodness!

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Vegetarian Easy Low Sodium Low In Something

Asparagus Pesto Pasta

This vibrant Asparagus Pesto Pasta recipe is quick, easy, and bursting with fresh flavor! Inspired by a market find, this recipe elevates simple asparagus into a creamy, nutty pesto sauce perfect for a weeknight dinner. Enjoy it over your favorite pasta – we love brown rice penne! Get ready to impress yourself and your taste buds!

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4 Hours Or Less Brunch Occasion Preparation

Aunt Miggies Pear Cake

A treasured family recipe passed down through generations, Aunt Miggie's Pear Cake is a moist and delicious treat. Originally published in a local newspaper, this recipe evokes the warmth of home-baking and cherished memories. The simple batter, made entirely by hand, bakes into a tender cake perfect for any occasion. Top with the creamy, dreamy cream cheese icing (or enjoy it plain!) for an unforgettable dessert.

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Dietary No Cook Technique Preparation

Avocado Mandarin Salad

A vibrant and refreshing Avocado Mandarin Salad, perfect as a light lunch or a zesty side dish to complement your favorite Tex-Mex feast! Sweet mandarin oranges, crunchy pecans, and creamy avocado combine in a delightful dance of flavors. This easy 20-minute recipe is sure to become a new favorite.

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Preparation Sweet Chocolate Served Cold

Baileys Irish Cream Chocolate Chip Cheesecake

Indulge in this decadent, moist Baileys Irish Cream Chocolate Chip Cheesecake! A family favorite recipe, this creamy masterpiece is guaranteed to disappear fast. Get ready for a rich and unforgettable dessert experience. (Requires 24-hour chilling time for optimal results)

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Main Ingredient Taste Mood Breads Time To Make

Banana Nut Peanut Butter Muffins

Moist and delicious Banana Nut Peanut Butter Muffins! This easy recipe combines the perfect blend of sweet bananas, crunchy pecans, and creamy peanut butter for a delightful treat. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert!

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Berries Stove Top Strawberries Berries

Berry Nice Honey Pecan Pancakes

Indulge in these decadent Berry Nice Honey Pecan Pancakes, a sweet treat that won rave reviews at the Ready Steady Cook #11 contest! These light and fluffy pancakes feature a subtly sweet batter, crunchy pecans, juicy strawberries, and a luscious raspberry honey drizzle. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful dessert, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Get ready for a pancake experience like no other!

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Number Of Servings Holiday Event Hand Formed Cookies Occasion

Best Pecan Sandies

These melt-in-your-mouth pecan sandies are a holiday MUST-BAKE! This generous recipe ensures there are plenty to share (or hoard…we won't judge!). Buttery, nutty, and perfectly sweet, these cookies disappear fast. The secret? Ample butter for that ultimate richness and delicate crumb. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Brownies Number Of Servings Brownies Desserts

Better Than Sex Brownies

Indulge in these decadent Better Than Sex Brownies, a family favorite passed down for generations! This recipe delivers intensely rich, gooey brownies with a surprising caramel and pecan swirl. Get ready for the ultimate chocolate experience – so good, it's better than sex!

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