When my daughter bought us an air fryer, I smiled politely and thanked her, while secretly wondering if it would become another gadget collecting dust on my counter.. We’ve all been there, right? A new appliance that promises to “change everything,” but ends up shoved behind the slow cooker.
But then… I actually used it.
First it was roasted veggies, then salmon, then crispy sweet potatoes in half the time—and before I knew it, I was hooked. One of my absolute favorite air fryer discoveries? These Citrus-Maple Candied Pecans with Chocolate & Fruit. Lightly sweet, perfectly crisp, and a total crowd pleaser.
“I put these out when friends stop by for coffee, and I always end up writing the recipe down before the visit is over. No one believes they’re made in an air fryer, they’re that good.”
They’re also:
- Quick to make (just 15 minutes in the fryer)
- Packed with flavor (thanks to orange zest, maple, and cinnamon)
- Pretty enough to gift (especially with a ribbon and a note!)
I make a batch every week or two and keep them in a jar on the counter. They’ve become my signature “welcome” snack. During the holidays, I package them in small tins to hand out. It’s the kind of homemade gift that feels thoughtful without taking all day in the kitchen.
The Recipe: Citrus-Maple Candied Pecans with Chocolate & Fruit
Makes about 4 cups | Prep: 10 min | Cook: 15 min | Cool: 10 min
Ingredients:
- Parchment paper
- ¼ cup egg whites
- 1 tablespoon water
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon maple extract (or sub extra vanilla if unavailable)
- 1 teaspoon orange zest (freshly grated)
- 16 oz pecan or walnut halves (about 4 cups)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- Cooking spray
- ½ cup dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots
- ½ cup dark chocolate chips (or chunks)
Steps:
- Preheat & Prep
Preheat air fryer to 300°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. - Whip the Base
In a large bowl, beat egg whites, water, vanilla, and maple extract until frothy. Add in orange zest. - Mix the Coating
Stir in both sugars, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk until well blended. - Coat the Nuts
Toss in pecans, stirring until every piece is well coated. - Air Fry in Batches
Spray air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray. Add an even layer of pecans (okay if slightly overlapping).
Cook for 15 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes until crisp and golden. - Cool & Dress Up
Spread pecans on prepared baking sheet to cool for at least 10 minutes.
Once fully cooled, stir in dried fruit and chocolate chips. - Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 weeks—if they last that long.
Key Tips:
- Don’t skip the orange zest. It adds a brightness that lifts the whole flavor.
- Wait until the pecans cool fully before adding chocolate chips. Otherwise, they’ll melt into a (tasty) mess.
- Want a savory twist? You can add a pinch of cayenne before air frying for a sweet-and-spicy blend.
I Never thought I’d be one of those people who swear by an air fryer, but here I am, happily eating my words (and a handful of pecans).
About the Author
Lisa Breen is a proud Tennessee native who couldn’t imagine calling anywhere else home. Recently becoming a grandmother for the fourth time, she treasures her cherished “Mimi sleepovers” with the grandkids. In her free time, Lisa enjoys playing Scrabble with friends
