Did you know that pecans are called the "All American Nut?" Sorry peanuts and walnuts. But the folks at the National Pecan Shellers Association say that the pecan deserves this honor since it's the only tree nut that originated right here in North America. In fact, the country's pecan growers provide the world with about 80 percent of these popular nuts.
Our country's pecan roots run deep: Some pecan trees are over 150 years old and have trunks that span more than 3 feet in diameter. And these nut-producing trees tend to stand out for another reason, too. While they often reach anywhere from 70-100 feet high, they've been know to stretch to 150 feet or more. You can share these pecan facts and others with your kiddos as you make snacks, meals and goodies featuring the chewy nut.
Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts
Make a tray of extra crunchy pecans with this homemade cinnamon sugar candied nuts recipe from Sally's Baking Addiction. Even though this recipe makes a whopping six cups of pecans, don't be surprised if these tasty snacks are gone in a hurry!
Maple Pecan Popcorn
For a snack favorite try this maple pecan popcorn recipe from Shape. This healthy recipe keeps the sugar and calories to a minimum by using pure maple syrup for sweetness. The pecans offer an extra crunch, which matches perfectly with the popcorn.
Pecan Chicken Salad
This pecan chicken salad recipe from Southern Bite has a spicy secret ingredient – Creole mustard. For fancier fare, fill croissants with the chicken salad. For a twist on the traditional bread and filling, use butter or Romaine lettuce leaves in place of the bun.
Pecan-Crusted Fish Fillets
Dress up an ordinary fish dish with a coating made of crushed pecans, bread crumbs and lemon zest. With this pecan-crusted fish fillet recipe from Pillsbury, you can make your dinner something special all with one cup of finely chopped pecans.
Pecan Sandies
For a classic, buttery cookie, try this pecan sandies recipe from Martha Stewart. The cookies include just a few ingredients to play up the earthy, sweet flavor of the pecans while melding in a hefty helping of creamy butter.
Caramel Pecan Brownies
What could be better than these caramel pecan brownies from Betty Crocker? The thick caramel drenches the chopped pecans, which top these rich brownies for a one-of-a-kind dessert your family will love. Don't expect any leftovers with this recipe!
Texas Pecan Pie
No list of pecan recipes would be complete without one for pie. This Texas pecan pie from Taste of Home includes a mix of both light and dark corn syrup and a dash of vinegar for a dense custard that bathes the pecan topping. Whipped cream, anyone?
