Preheat oven to 325˚ F.

Spread the pecans on a baking sheet and toast at 325˚ F for 9 minutes.  Remove from oven.

Place a piece of parchment paper on a separate baking sheet and set it aside.

In a heavy bottomed saucepan, pour ¼ cup granulated sugar and place on medium-high heat.  Even out the sugar by shaking the pan.  Let the sugar melt without stirring.

When a small amount of sugar is remaining and the melted sugar turns light brown, stir the un-melted sugar into the melted sugar.  Add the butter and vanilla extract.

Quickly add your hot pecans into the melted sugar and stir until all the nuts are coated.

Spread the coated pecans onto the parchment lined baking sheet.  Let cool and break apart.  Store in airtight container.