Chocolate Covered Pecans Recipe: A Crunchy, Sweet, and Addictively Good Snack
Chocolate Covered Pecans are the kind of snack that disappears quickly. With their perfect blend of sweet, salty, and nutty flavors, they’re ideal for gifting, entertaining, or just keeping on hand for a satisfying bite. This recipe starts with toasted pecans, which are then coated in silky melted chocolate and finished with a touch of sea salt for balance. Whether you prefer dark, milk, or white chocolate, this treat is endlessly customizable and incredibly easy to make from scratch.
The beauty of Chocolate Covered Pecans is in their simplicity. You only need a handful of ingredients, and the process is quick and fun. The result? An indulgent snack that offers a satisfying crunch, rich flavor, and just the right amount of sweetness. These are great for holiday platters, party favors, or keeping in your pantry when those chocolate cravings strike.
What Makes This Snack Special?
Chocolate Covered Pecans strike the perfect balance between crunchy, creamy, and sweet. The toasty depth of the pecans pairs beautifully with rich melted chocolate, creating a snack that’s both elegant and comforting. They store well, make excellent edible gifts, and are a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, with just a few ingredients and minimal equipment, anyone can make them at home.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes (to toast pecans)
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: About 2 cups
Ingredients
- 2 cups pecan halves
- 1 tablespoon butter (for toasting)
- 1 ½ cups chocolate chips (dark, milk, or white)
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil or vegetable oil (optional, for smoother coating)
- Sea salt (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Toast the Pecans
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add the pecans. Toast them for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently until they’re golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and let them cool completely.
2. Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler, melt the chocolate chips with the oil (if using) in 20-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth and fully melted.
3. Coat the Pecans
Add the cooled toasted pecans into the melted chocolate and stir to coat each one evenly. Using a fork or slotted spoon, lift them out and shake off excess chocolate.
4. Chill and Serve
Place the coated pecans on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Sprinkle with a little sea salt if desired. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes or until the chocolate is fully set. Once hardened, transfer to an airtight container.
Variations
- Chocolate Blend: Mix milk and dark chocolate for a layered flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the chocolate.
- Sweet and Salty: Toss pecans with a tiny bit of brown sugar before coating.
- White Chocolate Option: Use white chocolate and sprinkle with crushed candy canes for a festive touch.
- Nut Mix: Use a combination of pecans, almonds, and cashews for variety.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Skillet
- Microwave-safe bowl or double boiler
- Spatula or fork
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Airtight container for storage
Nutritional Information (Approx. Per 1 oz Serving)
- Calories: ~180
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 2g
- Sugar: 8g
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store in a sealed container for up to 1 week.
- Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 2 weeks in the fridge.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months in a zip-top bag. Just let them come to room temp before serving.
My Cooking Experience
With over 4 years of kitchen experience, I’ve learned that simple recipes like Chocolate Covered Pecans can be just as rewarding as complex desserts. I love making these during the holidays—they’re quick, delicious, and make a thoughtful gift. Toasting the pecans adds depth and crunch, while the melted chocolate gives them a smooth, irresistible coating.
Conclusion
Chocolate Covered Pecans are an easy, elegant treat that satisfies both sweet and savory cravings. With minimal effort, you get maximum flavor and texture. Perfect for any time of year, they’re a great recipe to have in your back pocket for last-minute gifts or when you just want something special. Once you try them, they’ll quickly become a staple in your homemade snack rotation.
Chocolate Covered Pecans
Ingredients
- 2 cups pecan halves
- 1 tablespoon butter for toasting
- 1 ½ cups chocolate chips dark, milk, or white
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil or vegetable oil optional, for smoother coating
- Sea salt optional, for garnish
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add the pecans. Toast them for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently until they’re golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and let them cool completely.
- In a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler, melt the chocolate chips with the oil (if using) in 20-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth and fully melted.
- Add the cooled toasted pecans into the melted chocolate and stir to coat each one evenly. Using a fork or slotted spoon, lift them out and shake off excess chocolate.
- Place the coated pecans on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Sprinkle with a little sea salt if desired. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes or until the chocolate is fully set. Once hardened, transfer to an airtight container.
Notes
- Room Temperature: Store in a sealed container for up to 1 week.
- Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 2 weeks in the fridge.
