How to Toast Pecans

Toasted pecans are wonderful as a topping on desserts, pancakes or a warm bowl of oatmeal. Store them in an airtight container for snacking! Here are a few tips for toasting your pecans:

• Buy pecan halves or unshelled pecans. Fresh, whole pecans are best!
• Make sure to use cooking spray or a little butter to coat pecans before toasting. It will help prevent sticking and burning. If you prefer to toast dry pecans, you may want to use parchment paper.
• If you have been storing pecans in the freezer, let them thaw completely before toasting.
• Once you have toasted your pecans, you can chop them into pieces and store them in the freezer for later use.

Toasting pecans in a pan: Melt salted butter in a nonstick pan. Toss pecans in butter on medium-high heat until warm, toasted and nutty. Lay pecans on paper towel to let them cool and dry.Toasting pecans in the oven:Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly spray baking sheet with cooking spray (or lay down sheet of parchment paper). Spread pecans evenly over baking sheet, making sure there is only one layer of pecans. Toast for 2-3 minutes, turn pecans over with a spatula, and toast for another 2-3 minutes. Keep an eye on your pecans, because they will burn quickly. When you smell a warm, nutty aroma, they are ready to eat!