Calories in Pecans: Full Nutrition Breakdown

Pecans are a rich, buttery tree nut native to North America, prized for their distinctive sweet flavor and tender, slightly crumbly texture. One ounce of raw pecans (about 19 halves) provides approximately 196 calories, 2.6 grams of protein, and 20.4 grams of fat, with over 60 percent of that fat being heart-healthy monounsaturated oleic acid. Pecans are an excellent source of manganese, copper, thiamine, and zinc, and they rank among the top 15 foods for antioxidant capacity according to USDA ORAC testing.

Calories by serving size:

Pecans are among the highest-fat nuts, which contributes to their rich, indulgent taste and higher calorie count per ounce. However, the fat profile is highly favorable — about 60% monounsaturated, 30% polyunsaturated, and only 10% saturated — which supports healthy cholesterol levels. Pecans also contain more than 19 vitamins and minerals per serving and are particularly high in manganese, with one ounce providing about 63% of the daily value, a mineral critical for bone health, metabolism, and antioxidant defense.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How many pecan halves are in one ounce?

One ounce of pecan halves contains approximately 19 individual halves, weighing about 28 grams. Because pecans are one of the highest-calorie nuts at 196 calories per ounce, being mindful of portion size is especially important for those tracking calorie intake. A small handful of about 10 halves provides roughly 100 calories and can be a satisfying addition to oatmeal, yogurt, or salads without significantly increasing the calorie content of a meal.

Are pecans good for lowering cholesterol?

Yes, research strongly supports pecans' ability to improve cholesterol levels. A clinical study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that adding a handful of pecans daily to the diet reduced total cholesterol by 5% and LDL ("bad") cholesterol by 6 to 9% within just four weeks. The high monounsaturated fat content, combined with plant sterols (beta-sitosterol) naturally present in pecans, is believed to be the primary mechanism for this cholesterol-lowering effect. Pecans contain about 32 milligrams of phytosterols per ounce, which are plant compounds that compete with cholesterol for absorption in the gut.

Why are pecans higher in calories than most other nuts?

Pecans have about 196 calories per ounce, making them one of the most calorie-dense nuts alongside macadamia nuts. This is directly related to their high fat content — pecans contain about 20.4 grams of fat per ounce, compared to about 14 grams in almonds. Fat is the most calorie-dense macronutrient at 9 calories per gram (versus 4 calories per gram for protein and carbohydrates), so nuts with more fat will inherently have more calories. Despite the higher calorie count, the beneficial fatty acid profile of pecans means these calories come packaged with significant health benefits for heart and metabolic health.

What are the health benefits of the antioxidants in pecans?

Pecans rank among the top 15 foods for total antioxidant capacity, containing a diverse array of antioxidant compounds including vitamin E (gamma-tocopherol form), ellagic acid, gallic acid, and proanthocyanidins. The gamma-tocopherol form of vitamin E found in pecans is particularly effective at neutralizing nitrogen-based free radicals, which are linked to chronic inflammation and cancer development. These antioxidants work together to protect LDL cholesterol from oxidation — a critical step in the development of atherosclerosis — and may help reduce systemic inflammation. Regular consumption of antioxidant-rich foods like pecans has been associated with lower rates of heart disease, certain cancers, and neurodegenerative conditions.

How should pecans be stored?

Pecans have a high oil content that makes them more prone to rancidity than lower-fat nuts, so proper storage is essential. At room temperature in a sealed container, shelled pecans will stay fresh for about two to three months. Refrigerating them in an airtight container extends shelf life to about six to nine months, while freezing can preserve quality for up to two years. Unshelled pecans last significantly longer because the shell protects the nut from air and light exposure. Always sniff pecans before use — a fresh pecan smells mildly sweet and nutty, while a rancid one will have an acrid or paint-like odor.