Pecans are rich in natural oils, which is what makes them taste buttery and also what makes them go stale if they are stored badly. A few simple habits keep them tasting the way they should.
The three enemies: heat, air and light
Oils break down faster when pecans are warm, exposed to air or sitting in bright light. Store them in an airtight container or a sealed bag, in a cool, dark place. A pantry shelf works for a few weeks. Past that, move them somewhere colder.
Refrigerator or freezer?
- Refrigerator: good for several months. Keep them sealed so they do not pick up the smell of other foods.
- Freezer: the best choice for the long haul. Properly sealed, shelled pecans keep their flavor for a year or more.
Pecans freeze and thaw well. You can use them straight from the freezer in baking, or let them sit on the counter for ten minutes before snacking.
How to tell if pecans have gone bad
Trust your nose and your teeth. Fresh pecans smell sweet and nutty and snap cleanly. Stale or rancid pecans smell sharp, like paint or old oil, and taste bitter or flat. If they smell off, throw them out.
Shelled or in the shell?
Pecans last longest in the shell because the shell protects the kernel. Once shelled, treat them like any other fresh food and keep them cool and sealed. Our pecans are kept in cool, dark conditions so they arrive with great color and flavor.
Quick tips
- Buy what you will use in a few months, and freeze the rest.
- Keep pecans away from onions, garlic and other strong smells.
- Toast them lightly just before using. A few minutes in a dry pan wakes up the flavor.
Want to try fresh Texas pecans? Shop our pecans.