How to Store Pecans: Advice From a Georgia Pecan Farm

How Should I Store Raw Pecans?

Raw pecans should be stored in the refrigerator or freezer to help maintain their freshness, flavor, and quality. As a pecan grower we recommend storing pecans in a clean and dry, airtight container to protect them from moisture and odors.

To preserve a pecan’s quality, Sunnyland Farms recommends storing raw pecans in the refrigerator for up to four to five months or in a freezer at 2°F to 3°F or below for up to one year. In-shell pecans can be preserved in cold storage for twice the time as shelled pecans. When properly stored, pecans can be thawed and refrozen without significantly affecting their texture or flavor.

How do I Thaw Frozen Raw Pecans?

It is important to allow cold pecans to warm to room temperature before opening the cold storage container. This practice prevents raw pecans from absorbing any excess moisture that could affect their quality.

How Should I Store Toasted Pecans? 

Toasted pecans need to be kept in cold storage too. When toasted pecans are thawed they can become softer. If this happens, place toasted pecans in an oven set at 150 degrees for 15 to 20 minutes to restore the pecan’s crunch. Allow the refreshed toasted pecans to cool before serving.

How Should I Store Raw & Toasted Nuts?

These storage recommendations to store raw and toasted pecans in cold storage can be applied to keep all your nuts fresh and delicious. To save time, store nuts in serving sizes to prevent the bulk of your nuts being thawed and re-frozen when unnecessary. Allow nuts to reach room temperature before opening the cold storage container.