These Curried Maple Pecans are a wildly addictive blend of sweet, spicy, and savory – the kind of snack that disappears faster than you expect. Toasted to perfection and coated in a warm curried-spiced maple glaze, they bring an unexpected twist to your usual candied nut routine. Whether you scatter them over a salad, add them to a cheese board, or munch them straight from the pan, these pecans deliver bold flavor with a cozy, autumnal kick.

If you’re looking for more nut recipes, Vanilla Glazed Pecans and the Best Banana Bread Recipe with Pecans will make your taste buds happy.

What makes these curried maple pecans stand out is the way the rich, buttery crunchiness of the pecans plays against the earthy warmth of the curry powder and the deep sweetness of maple syrup.

As the pecans roast, the glaze caramelizes into a golden coating that’s just the right amount of sticky, clinging to every ridge and curve of the nut.

There’s a subtle heat in the background too – enough to keep your taste buds curious, but not enough to overpower the mellow sweetness.

They’re a favorite for fall gatherings, holiday nibbles, or gifting in little jars tied with twine. But they’re just as at home on a quiet afternoon with a cup of tea and a good book.

These pecans are simple to make, yet feel a bit luxurious – like something you’d find in a fancy gourmet shop. The best part? They make your whole kitchen smell amazing while they’re cooking.

Ingredients to Gather

• Butter adds richness and helps the spices cling to the pecans while creating a luscious, golden coating during cooking.
• Ground Ginger brings a gentle warmth and subtle zing that enhances the overall spice blend.
• Curry Powder delivers a bold, earthy flavor with hints of sweetness and heat, giving the pecans their signature savory twist.
• Sea Salt balances the sweetness and deepens the flavor of both the nuts and spices.
• Freshly Ground Pepper adds a touch of sharp heat that keeps the sweetness in check and boosts the complexity.
• Pecans provide a naturally sweet, buttery crunch that pairs beautifully with both sweet and savory flavors.
• Maple Syrup caramelizes as it bakes, lending a deep, woodsy sweetness and a glossy finish to the pecans.

Creating a Cozy Life Group

Since you found this recipe for curried maple pecans, I’m guessing you love all things cozy living. I created a Facebook group called Creating a Cozy Life with over 214,000 like minded souls.

It’s a group where we share recipes, photos of things that leave you in awe, and ideas on how to make your life just a little bit more snug. Join here to be part of the virtual cozy cottage.

I found this amazing recipe in the Stonewall Kitchen Winter Celebration Cookbook. I didn’t change a thing.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon butter

1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

1/2 teaspoon curry powder

1/8 teaspoon fine sea salt

Generous grind of freshly ground black pepper

1 cup pecans

1/4 cup maple syrup

Directions

1) In a large, heavy skillet, melt the butter over low heat. Stir in the ginger, curry, salt, and pepper until thoroughly combined. Let the mixture cook gently for 2 minutes to blend the spices.

2) Stir in the pecans and cook for two more minutes. Drizzle the maple syrup over the top, then continue cooking for 2-3 minutes, stirring often, until the syrup thickens slightly and the pecans are glossy and well-coated.

3) Transfer the nuts to a sheet of waxed or parchment paper, spreading them out to prevent clumping. Once completely cool, store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.

Cooking Tips

• Use fresh pecans – Stale nuts can taste bitter and ruin the final flavor. Make sure your pecans are fresh and not past their prime.
• Toast the spices – Let the curry powder and ground ginger briefly cook in the butter before adding pecans to bloom the spices and deepen their flavor.
• Stir constantly once the syrup is added – Maple syrup can burn quickly, so stir frequently to keep it from scorching and to coat the pieces evenly.
• Watch for the glaze to thicken – You’ll know when they’re ready when the syrup starts clinging to the nuts and looks glossy and slightly sticky.
• Spread the nuts out the cool – After cooking, immediately transfer the nuts to parchment or wax paper and separate them as much as possible to prevent clumping.
• Let them cool completely – Don’t store them until they’re fully cool; otherwise, trapped steam can lead to sogginess.
• Adjust the spice level to taste – Feel free to add a pinch of cayenne or more pepper if you like a little more heat.

Storage

To store curried maple pecans, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Keep them at room temperature in a cool, dry spot away from direct sunlight for up to 1 week.

For longer storage, place the container in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks, or freeze for up to 3 months. If freezing, allow the pecans to come to room temperature before serving to regain their crisp texture.

Uses for Curried Pecans

1. Salad topper – Add crunch and sweet-savory kick to green salads, especially those with apples, goat cheese, or roasted squash.
2. Cheese board favorite – Pair them with sharp cheeses, dried fruit, and charcuterie for a flavorful contrast.
3. Snack on their own – They’re perfect as a quick, protein-rich snack with a gourmet twist.
4. Soup garnish – Sprinkle over creamy soups like butternut squash or carrot ginger for added texture and flavor.
5. Baked into breads – Fold them into savory quick breads or sprinkle on top of cornbread muffins before baking.
6. Gift idea – Package them in jars or tins for a cozy homemade holiday or hostess gift.
7. Yogurt or oatmeal topping – Add a handful to breakfast bowls for a sweet-spicy crunch.
8. Chopped into grain bowls – Use them in rice or farro bowls for a sweet-spicy crunch.
9. Ice cream mix-in – Crumble them over vanilla or chai-spiced ice cream for a bold dessert upgrade.
10. Holiday party snack mix – Mix with pretzels, dried cranberries, and popcorn for a seasonal snack blend.

Flavored Nuts Toolbox

• If you’re gifting these curried maple nuts, here’s a great set of glass jars to display them in.
• Pick up some clear cellophane bags to package your candied nuts – they’re perfect for showing off that glossy curried maple coating.

Let me know in the comments below if you tried this recipe and what you thought.

Be sure to join the Creating a Cozy Life Group. You’re not going to believe how amazing it is!

I created a pin for you to add to your condiment Pinterest board so you never lose the recipe.

You can follow me here on PINTEREST.

Thanks for stopping by. I’m so happy you found us!

Printable Recipe Card for Curried Maple Pecans with Nutritional Information