Ring in the New Year with These 5 Pecan Party Snack Recipes
Pecans are more than just a tasty addition; they bring versatility and elegance to any party spread. From spiced and roasted snacks to decadent chocolate-covered treats, pecans can be transformed into an array of crowd-pleasing recipes that suit every palate. Plus, they’re packed with nutrients like healthy fats and antioxidants, making them a wholesome choice for your celebrations.
The countdown to the New Year is all about celebration, laughter, and, of course, delicious food. If you’re hosting or attending a party, pecans are the perfect ingredient to elevate your snacks. Their buttery, nutty flavor and satisfying crunch make them a crowd-pleaser in both sweet and savory dishes. Whether you’re planning a cozy gathering or a lively bash, these pecan snacks are guaranteed to impress your guests and start the New Year on a flavorful note.
Spicy Honey Roasted Pecans
These sweet and spicy pecans are the perfect combination of heat and sweetness, making them a standout party snack. They’re easy to prepare and are sure to disappear quickly once served.
Their versatility also makes them ideal for various occasions, from casual get-togethers to elegant soirées. You can serve them as a standalone snack, pair them with a cheeseboard, or even use them as a topping for salads or desserts. The balance of spice and sweetness ensures they’ll satisfy a range of taste preferences, making them a reliable crowd-pleaser. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, these pecans are a stress-free addition to your New Year’s party menu.
Ingredients:
2 cups pecan halves
3 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
Step One
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step Two
In a medium bowl, combine the honey, olive oil, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, and salt. Stir until well mixed.
Step Three
Add the pecans to the bowl and toss until they are fully coated in the honey mixture.
Step Four
Spread the coated pecans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are golden and fragrant.
Step Five
Let the pecans cool completely before serving. They’ll crisp up as they cool, creating a snack that’s both crunchy and flavorful.
Pecan-Crusted Cheese Balls
These mini cheese balls are the perfect savory bite for your New Year’s party. The crunchy pecan coating pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese filling. They’re also incredibly versatile—add your favorite herbs or spices to customize the flavor profile to suit your party theme. These bite-sized treats can be prepared ahead of time, so you’ll have one less thing to worry about when the party starts. They’re a fantastic option for guests who appreciate a balance of indulgence and sophistication in their snacks.
Ingredients:
1 block (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup finely chopped pecans
Instructions:
Step One
In a medium bowl, mix the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, chives, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt until well combined.
Step Two
Scoop out small portions of the mixture (about 1 tablespoon each) and roll them into balls.
Step Three
Place the chopped pecans in a shallow dish. Roll each cheese ball in the pecans, pressing gently to coat the outside.
Step Four
Chill the cheese balls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Step Five
Serve with crackers or veggies for a savory snack that’s sure to impress your guests.
Sweet and Salty Pecan Snack Mix
This snack mix combines the best of sweet and salty flavors for a party treat that’s impossible to resist. It’s perfect for snacking during the countdown to midnight. Pecans, pretzels, dried fruit, and chocolate-covered candies create a satisfying mix of textures and flavors. It is a great snack for munching and doubles as a beautiful centerpiece when served in a festive bowl. It’s a versatile recipe you can tweak to include other favorite mix-ins, making it a personalized treat for your guests.
Ingredients:
2 cups pecan halves
2 cups pretzels
1 cup chocolate-covered candies
1 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup melted butter
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
Step One
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step Two
In a large bowl, combine the pecans, pretzels, maple syrup, melted butter, cinnamon, and salt. Toss until everything is well coated.
Step Three
Spread the mixture in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the pecans are toasted and fragrant.
Step Four
Let the mixture cool completely, then stir in the chocolate-covered candies and dried cranberries.
Step Five
Serve in a large bowl for a snack that’s perfect for grazing throughout the evening.
Pecan-Stuffed Dates
These pecan-stuffed dates are a simple yet elegant appetizer that combines the natural sweetness of dates with the nutty crunch of pecans. They’re a fantastic finger food for mingling guests and can easily be made vegan or dairy-free by choosing the right filling. Whether you stick with the classic pecan filling or add creamy elements like vegan cream cheese or goat cheese, these treats are as visually appealing as they are delicious. The touch of honey or maple syrup adds a festive sheen, making them perfect for New Year’s celebrations.
Ingredients:
12 large Medjool dates, pitted
12 pecan halves
1/4 cup vegan cream cheese or goat cheese (optional)
Instructions:
Step One
Slice each date lengthwise to create a small opening.
Step Two
Stuff each date with a pecan half. For a creamier option, add a small dollop of vegan cream cheese or goat cheese before inserting the pecan.
Step Three
Arrange the stuffed dates on a serving platter.
Step Four
Serve as-is or drizzle with a bit of honey for added sweetness.
Chocolate-Dipped Pecans
These chocolate-dipped pecans are an indulgent yet simple dessert that adds a touch of elegance to your party spread. The combination of rich dark chocolate and buttery pecans is a match made in heaven. Customize these treats with sprinkles, sea salt, or even edible glitter to suit your party’s color scheme or festive vibe. They’re easy to prepare in large batches, making them perfect for sharing with a crowd or packaging as take-home gifts for your guests. Their simple preparation belies their luxurious taste, ensuring they’ll be a highlight of your party.
Ingredients:
2 cups pecan halves
1 cup dark chocolate chips
1 teaspoon coconut oil (optional)
Sprinkles or sea salt for garnish
Instructions:
Step One
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step Two
Melt the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
Step Three
Dip each pecan halfway into the melted chocolate, letting the excess drip off, and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
Step Four
Sprinkle with sea salt or decorative sprinkles while the chocolate is still wet.
Step Five
Refrigerate the dipped pecans for 20-30 minutes or until the chocolate is set. Serve as a sweet snack or dessert that’s sure to delight.
These five pecan-packed recipes offer something for everyone at your New Year’s celebration. Whether your guests prefer sweet, savory, or a combination of both, these dishes are guaranteed to impress with their flavor and versatility. Pecans’ unique ability to elevate any recipe makes them the ideal ingredient for festive occasions. As you ring in the New Year, let these snacks take center stage and set the tone for a year filled with great food, cherished memories, and joyful gatherings. Happy New Year from your friends at Delightful Pecans!