Living in the South, buttery pecans aren’t just another snack; they’re a holiday tradition. Every Christmas, bowls of warm pecans would show up on the coffee table right alongside the fudge, cheese straws, and homemade cookies. The smell of them roasting in the oven takes me back to my mom’s kitchen, where pecans were a staple in both sweet and savory holiday dishes. This roasted buttery pecans recipe is a simple, classic Southern pecan recipe that feels like home. Whether you’re serving them before Christmas dinner, packing them up as gifts, or setting them out for neighbors who drop by, they’re the kind of treat that makes guests feel welcome and cared for.
Great Reasons To Make Roasted Buttery Pecans
These roasted buttery pecans are the kind of recipe that makes Southern hospitality feel effortless. They are easy to prepare, rich with buttery flavor, and just a little bit spiced to keep things interesting. They are perfect for gatherings because you can make them ahead and serve them at room temperature, which means one less thing to fuss over in the kitchen. They also make wonderful holiday gifts when packed in a pretty tin or jar. Most of all, they are a recipe that ties us to tradition and helps create memories year after year.
Ingredient Notes
Here’s a quick overview of the key ingredients for this recipe. For the full list of ingredients and exact measurements, be sure to check the recipe card at the bottom of this post.
- Butter: Only use real butter for the richest flavor. A plant-based butter substitute works if you need a dairy-free option, but the taste will differ.
- Pecan halves: Fresh pecans roast best. Toasting enhances their natural sweetness. Do not use already roasted pecans.
- Kosher salt: Provides balance and brings out the flavor. Sea salt or table salt can be used as substitutes.
- Ground red pepper (cayenne): Adds a light heat. Smoked paprika or chili powder can be used for a different flavor.
How to Make Buttery Pecans
Coat the Pecans
Place the pecan halves in a large mixing bowl. Pour the melted butter over them and toss until every pecan is coated.
Pro Tip: Give them one last extra stir just before spreading them on the pan to make sure the butter is evenly distributed.
Bake and Season
Spread the pecans in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake for 25 minutes, stirring halfway through. You will know they are ready when they smell toasty and look slightly darker.
Remove the pecans from the oven and sprinkle immediately with salt and cayenne while they are still warm. Toss gently so the seasoning sticks to the butter. Allow them to cool completely before serving so they stay crisp.
Pro tip: I like to use a small sifter to spread the cayenne pepper lightly and evenly.
Variations, Substitutions, and Recipe Tips
Dietary Modifications: Use vegan butter for a dairy-free version. Note the taste will be different but still very yummy.
Flavor Enhancements: Try adding cinnamon and brown sugar for a sweet holiday twist or dried chopped rosemary for a savory flavor.
Add-In Options: Combine with candied pecans, spiced almonds, or dried fruit for a festive snack mix.
Simple Substitutions: Swap cayenne with black pepper for a gentler spice.
Tips For Recipe Success: Always stir the pecans halfway through roasting for even toasting. Watch carefully near the end of baking because pecans can go from toasted to burnt very quickly.
Yes, they are perfect for making ahead. Store in a sealed container and they will stay fresh for several days.
Hospitality Challenge
Host a Gather & Give. Make it a joy-filled project with everyone cooking the snacks together, then packaging them as gifts for friends, neighbors, church staff, and teachers. As each tin is filled with roasted buttery pecans, candied pecans, cashew brittle, candied cashews, and roasted cashews, then slip in a handwritten note. Pray briefly over each recipient as you seal the lid.
These roasted buttery pecans are a Southern pecan recipe that ties tradition and flavor together for the holidays. If you have any questions about making this recipe, feel free to ask in the comments below. I’m here to help!
Roasted Buttery Pecans
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Ingredients
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 4 cups pecan halves
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground red pepper, cayenne
Instructions
Preheat the oven
- Heat oven to 325°F.
- Line a rimmed baking sheet (or jelly-roll pan) with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Coat the pecans
- Place pecans in a large mixing bowl.4 cups pecan halves
- Pour the melted butter over the top.1/4 cup butter
- Toss until all pecans are evenly coated.
Roast the pecans
- Spread pecans in a single layer on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 25 minutes, stirring halfway through so they roast evenly.
- Pecans are ready when they smell toasty and look slightly darker.
Season and cool
- Remove pecans from the oven.
- Sprinkle with kosher salt and red pepper while still warm. Toss to coat. Pro tip: I like to use a small sifter to spread the cayenne pepper lightly and evenly.1 tablespoon kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon ground red pepper
- Let cool completely before serving.
Gina’s Notes and Tips
Storage and Reheating
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week. No reheating is necessary, but if you prefer them warm, place on a baking sheet and heat in a 300°F oven for 3–4 minutes.
- Fridge: Keep sealed up to 3 weeks. When ready to enjoy, spread pecans on a baking sheet and reheat in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes until crisp and fragrant.
- Freezer: Store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature, then reheat on a baking sheet in a 300°F oven for 6–7 minutes to restore crunch.
I would love to make these.
I have a problem w/the time. Eleven hours and 25-30 minutes? You mean 11 minutes and 25-30 seconds. It doesn’t take that long to cook this recipe. Holy Shit.
Have mercy! Your right Jeremy. The 11 was a mistake for sure. This is a 25-30 minute recipe total time.Also, note ovens vary slightly in temperatures so I suggest checking around the 25 minute mark to check if they are roasted. I fixed the time in the recipe card, thank you for telling me.