Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
If you’re looking for a delightful snack that will have everyone talking at your next gathering, then you’ve come to the right place! These Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans are not just a treat; they are a warm hug in snack form. The sweet aroma of cinnamon wafting through your kitchen will have your loved ones flocking to the oven, and trust me, they won’t be able to resist munching on these crunchy delights.
This recipe is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a festive holiday party, a cozy family gathering, or just a little something to satisfy your sweet tooth. They also make for fantastic gifts when packaged in cute jars! So grab those pecans (or almonds if you prefer), and let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these delicious snacks in no time.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet, crunchy flavor—perfect for everyone!
- Make-Ahead Convenience: These pecans can be made ahead of time and stored for later snacking, making them ideal for busy days.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a snack, sprinkle them on salads, or use them as toppings for desserts.
- Festive Flavors: The classic combination of cinnamon and sugar makes these pecans a seasonal favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the first step to making these delectable Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans. You might already have most of these in your pantry! Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:
- 1 pound pecans (and/or almonds)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 egg white
- 1/2 tsp salt (or your preference)
- 2 tsp water
Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with flavors or substitute ingredients. Here are some fun ideas:
- Add Some Spice: For an extra kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sugar mixture for a sweet and spicy twist.
- Nut Mix-Up: Swap out pecans for other nuts like cashews or walnuts—each will bring its own unique flavor profile.
- Maple Sweetness: Substitute half of the sugar with maple syrup for a deliciously different taste that still gives you that sweet crunch.
- Coconut Delight: Toss in some shredded coconut before baking for added texture and tropical flair.
How to Make Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheating your oven to 250°F is crucial. This low temperature allows the pecans to gradually become crispy without burning. Plus, it fills your kitchen with that amazing cinnamon scent—who could resist?
Step 2: Mix Sugar and Spices
Grab a large Ziploc bag and mix together the sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt. This step ensures every nut gets evenly coated with that sweet spice blend!
Step 3: Whisk the Egg White Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the egg white, vanilla extract, and water until frothy. This mixture acts as the glue that helps the sugar adhere perfectly to your nuts.
Step 4: Coat Your Nuts
Add those fresh pecans (or almonds) into the egg white mixture. Stir until they are well coated; this is where all that flavor starts coming together!
Step 5: Shake It Up!
Now it’s time to transfer those nuts into the Ziploc bag with your sugar mixture. Seal it tight and shake vigorously until every nut is generously coated in sweetness.
Step 6: Spread Out on Baking Sheet
Spread your coated nuts out onto a lined baking sheet in a single layer. This ensures they bake evenly and get nice and crispy.
Step 7: Bake Away!
Bake in the preheated oven for one hour. Remember to stir every 15 minutes—a little stirring helps keep everything from clumping together while allowing all sides to get that lovely crunch.
Step 8: Enjoy Responsibly!
Once they’re golden brown and smell heavenly, let them cool before diving in! Try not to eat them all in one sitting—they’re just too good!
Pro Tips for Making Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
Making the perfect batch of cinnamon sugar pecans is all about a few simple tricks!
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Use fresh ingredients: Ensuring your spices and nuts are fresh enhances the flavor, making every bite taste vibrant and delightful.
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Don’t skip the egg white: The egg white acts as a binder, helping the cinnamon-sugar mixture adhere to the nuts better. This results in an even coating that caramelizes beautifully in the oven.
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Stir regularly while baking: Stirring them every 15 minutes promotes even cooking and prevents any nuts from burning, allowing for a uniformly crunchy texture.
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Cool completely before storing: Letting the pecans cool on the baking sheet helps them crisp up even more. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container to maintain their crunch.
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Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add your favorite spices or zest! A pinch of nutmeg or a hint of orange zest can elevate these treats to a whole new level.
How to Serve Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
These easy cinnamon sugar pecans are not just delicious but also make a stunning presentation at any gathering. Here are some fun ideas on how to serve them!
Garnishes
- Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped mint or rosemary can add a lovely color contrast and a refreshing touch.
- Cocoa powder dust: Lightly dusting with cocoa powder adds a chocolatey richness that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the pecans.
Side Dishes
- Creamy cheese platter: Pair these candied pecans with a selection of cheeses like brie and goat cheese for a rich contrast that guests will love.
- Fruit salad: A mix of seasonal fruits—like apples, pears, and berries—adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the pecans.
- Mixed greens salad: Tossed with vinaigrette dressing, greens provide a light counterpart to the sweet crunchiness of your pecans.
- Charcuterie board: Include these pecans among meats, cheeses, and olives for an enticing snack spread that will wow your guests.
With all these serving suggestions, your Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans will shine at any occasion! Enjoy creating delightful moments around food this season!
Make Ahead and Storage
These Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch in advance, making them an ideal snack for busy days or holiday gatherings.
Storing Leftovers
- Store leftover pecans in an airtight container at room temperature.
- They will stay fresh for up to two weeks.
- If you live in a particularly humid climate, consider refrigerating them to maintain their crunch.
Freezing
- While it’s best to enjoy these pecans fresh, you can freeze them if needed.
- Place the cooled pecans in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible.
- They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw them at room temperature.
Reheating
- To restore crispness, reheat them in the oven at 350° F for about 5-10 minutes.
- Keep an eye on them to prevent burning; you just want to warm them through.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about making Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans.
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes! You can easily substitute almonds or walnuts for pecans in this recipe. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the type of nut you choose.
How long do Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans last?
When stored properly in an airtight container, these tasty treats last up to two weeks at room temperature. For longer storage, consider freezing them!
Can I make Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans without egg white?
Absolutely! You can use aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) as a vegan alternative to egg white. It will help the cinnamon sugar mixture adhere just as well!
What should I serve with Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans?
These pecans make a delightful snack on their own or can be used as a topping for salads, oatmeal, or desserts. They’re versatile and add a lovely crunch and sweetness!
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making these Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans as much as I do! They’re not only simple but also incredibly delicious—a true crowd-pleaser whether it’s for a festive occasion or just a cozy night in. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different nuts or spices to make this recipe your own. Happy snacking!
Snack
Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
If you’re in search of a delightful snack that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion, look no further than these Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans. With their sweet and spicy aroma filling your kitchen, these crunchy treats will have everyone reaching for more. Ideal for gatherings, holiday festivities, or simply satisfying your sweet cravings, they also make wonderful gifts when packaged in decorative jars. Enjoy them on their own, sprinkle them over salads, or use them as toppings for desserts. Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe that will surely impress your guests and family alike!
Ingredients
- 1 pound pecans (or almonds)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 egg white
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons water
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C).
- In a large Ziploc bag, combine sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
- In a bowl, whisk egg white, vanilla extract, and water until frothy.
- Add pecans (or almonds) to the egg mixture and stir until coated.
- Transfer nuts to the Ziploc bag with the sugar mixture and shake until well coated.
- Spread nuts on a lined baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool before enjoying.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 55mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
