How to toast pecans in 3 ways, recipe and tips (2024)

Roasted vs. Toasted

Before we answer important questions like: “how long do you toast pecans”? “what temperature to roast pecans”? Or “how to bake pecans”? Allow me to clarify the difference between roasting and toasting.

Roasting is exposing our subject to heat, most times the oven. Toasting is applying direct heat to our subject much like we do when we use a skillet to toast.

There are two ways to roast:

1. Oven method: great for small amount (less than 1 cup) or large amount (1-4 cups per large cookie pan), and when you have time.
2. Microwave method: great when you are pressed in time, like when in the office and wish to roast a small amount. (up to 1 cup).

There is one way to toast: in a skillet over direct heat.

So now we know that there is no such thing as “the best way to toast pecans” because there is only one way. Use the method that is right for you for your needs and wants. We also know that asking “how do you toast pecans in the oven”? Or “how to toast pecan pieces in the oven” ? is not the right way.

Why should you toast or roast?

Many times we find ourselves searching for a roasted pecan recipe because we are following a recipe. There are two reasons so many recipes call for toasted nuts: complex flavor and texture.

Flavor. When we apply heat to nuts, as we do in the process of toasting chopped nuts, the natural oils (fat) make their way to the surface, giving it a rich complex flavor. (Fat is flavor)

Texture. Applying heat also results in browning the surface of the nuts which creates a crispy exterior and also contributes to the deep and rich flavors of any dry roasted pecans recipe. (or toasted).

Ingredients

Raw Pecans. You can toast or roast raw nuts, either halves or pieces. Both call for the same process, different lengths.

Toasted pecans recipes

Here are the instructions for how to roast and toast in three different ways. Find the full recipe on the recipe card below.

How to roast pecans in the oven?

Preheat oven to 350F (see my tip below on how to preheat your oven in 5 minutes).

1. Line a rimmed baking sheet pan with parchment paper then spread the nuts in a single layer.
2. Place the pan on the middle rack and bake for 7-10 minutes, tossing halfway through. (use your hand if you have few minutes to spare for them to cool, or a spoon)
3. Remove from the oven and allow to cool. When coming out of the oven the nuts are chewy and as they cool they become crispy.

Using the stovetop?

1. Place the nuts halves or pecan pieces in a wide dry skillet over the stovetop medium-low heat.
2. Shake the skillet and toss every 20-30 seconds. Do not walk away the process is short and goes from lightly toasted to fully burnt in less than a minute.When lightly browned and have a beautiful nutty aroma, remove from the oven and allow to reach room temperature and cool completely.

Print

Author One Sarcastic Baker

• 1CupRaw pecan halves or pieces(100 g / 3.5 g)
• 1tbspolive oil (for seasoned option only)
• 1/4cupEverything but the bagel seasoning (for seasoned option only)

Roasting in the oven

1. Preheat oven to 350F and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Spread the nuts in a single layer and bake for 10 minutes tossing at the 5 minute point.

3. Remove from the oven and let cook completely.

Toasting on the stovetop

1. Place the raw nuts in a wide skillet and place the skillet on the stove medium heat.

2. Cook for 3-4 minutes while shaking the skillet every 20-30 seconds.

3. Remove from heat, place on a plate or a baking pan and allow to completely cool.

Roasting pecans in the microwave

1. Line a microwave proff plate with paper towel.

2. Spread the nuts ontop in a single layer and cook for 2.5-3 minutes.

3. Toss and cook for another 2.5-3 minutes. Remove from the microwave and allow to completely cool.

Flvored pecans

1. Drizzle the oil over the pecans followed by the seasoning. Use a spoon to mix.

2. Spread the nuts in a pan lined with parchment paper and bake for 10 minutes.

3. Remove from the oven and let cool. (avoid from over stirring)