Looking for a delightful snack that’s perfect for any occasion? Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans are a must-try! These sweet and crunchy treats are incredibly simple to prepare and make wonderful additions to holiday gatherings, parties, or just for indulging during cozy nights in. Their irresistible flavor and satisfying crunch will have everyone coming back for more!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple to Make: With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up these pecans in no time.
- Versatile Snack: Perfect for any season, these pecans can be enjoyed at Christmas, Thanksgiving, or as everyday finger food.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and sugar creates a deliciously sweet coating that enhances the natural nuttiness of pecans.
- Great for Sharing: These snacks are perfect for parties or gatherings, making them a hit with family and friends.
- Customizable: Feel free to mix in other nuts or spices to suit your taste!
Tools and Preparation
Before you get started, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or non-stick foil
- Large mixing bowl
- Ziploc bag
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface for even baking, ensuring all your pecans cook uniformly.
- Ziploc bag: Allows you to easily mix the pecans with the cinnamon sugar without making a mess.
- Whisk: Essential for frothing the egg white mixture, which helps the sugar adhere to the nuts.
Ingredients
For the Pecans
- 1 pound pecans (and/or almonds)
For the Coating
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 egg white
- 1/2 tsp salt (or your preference)
- 2 tsp water
How to Make Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 250° F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or non-stick foil. This step ensures that your pecans won’t stick during baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Sugar Mixture
In a large Ziploc bag, combine:
1 cup sugar
1 tbsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp salt
Seal the bag and shake it gently until all ingredients are well mixed.
Step 3: Make the Egg White Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together:
1 egg white
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 tsp water
Whisk until frothy. This mixture helps the sugar coating stick better to the nuts.
Step 4: Coat the Nuts
Add your pecans (or almonds) into the egg white mixture. Stir until they are fully coated.
Step 5: Combine with Sugar Mixture
Pour the coated nuts into the Ziploc bag filled with sugar mixture. Seal it and shake vigorously until all nuts are evenly coated.
Step 6: Bake
Spread the coated nuts in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Bake for one hour, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even cooking.
Step 7: Enjoy!
Once baked, let them cool slightly before indulging. Try not to eat them all in one sitting! These Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans make an excellent snack anytime.
How to Serve Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
These Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to impress guests at a holiday party or enjoy a cozy night in, there are plenty of serving suggestions to consider.
As a Snack
- Perfect for munching on while watching a movie or during game night with friends.
Holiday Party Platter
- Add these candied pecans to a festive cheese board alongside fruits and crackers for a delightful crunch.
Gift Packaging
- Package the pecans in decorative jars or bags as thoughtful gifts for friends and family during the holiday season.
Salad Topping
- Sprinkle over salads for added texture and sweetness, making your greens more exciting.
Ice Cream Topping
- Use as a delightful topping for vanilla ice cream, enhancing flavor with a crunchy twist.
Breakfast Addition
- Mix into oatmeal or yogurt for a sweet start to your day.
How to Perfect Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
To achieve the best results with your Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans, follow these helpful tips to ensure they come out perfectly every time.
- Use fresh nuts – Fresh pecans enhance flavor and crunchiness, making them more enjoyable.
- Whisk egg whites well – Ensure the egg whites are frothy; this helps the sugar mixture adhere better.
- Don’t skip the stirring – Stir every 15 minutes while baking to prevent uneven cooking and ensure all sides get coated.
- Store properly – Keep your candied pecans in an airtight container to maintain freshness and crunchiness.
- Experiment with spices – Try adding nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of flavor.
- Adjust sweetness – If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the sugar slightly; taste as you go!
Best Side Dishes for Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
When serving Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans, pairing them with the right side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some delicious options that complement their sweet and crunchy profile.
- Cheese Platter – A mix of sharp cheeses balances the sweetness beautifully.
- Fruit Salad – Fresh fruits like apples and berries provide a refreshing contrast.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts – The bitterness of Brussels sprouts pairs nicely with sweet pecans.
- Sweet Potato Casserole – This dish enhances seasonal flavors, making it perfect for holidays.
- Gourmet Popcorn – Serve alongside various popcorn flavors for a fun snack mix.
- Charcuterie Board – Include cured meats that offer savory notes against the sweet nuts.
- Spinach Salad – A light spinach salad topped with feta can be elevated by adding pecans for crunch.
- Glazed Carrots – The natural sweetness of glazed carrots complements the cinnamon sugar perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans can be a delightful experience, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Skipping the egg white: This ingredient helps the sugar adhere to the nuts. If omitted, your pecans may end up less sweet and crunchy.
- Not stirring frequently: Stirring every 15 minutes ensures even coating and prevents burning. If you forget, some may get too dark while others remain undercooked.
- Using the wrong baking temperature: Baking at too high of a temperature can cause the sugar to burn. Always stick to 250° F for perfect results.
- Overcrowding the baking sheet: Lay the pecans in a single layer for even baking. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and sticky clusters.
- Not letting them cool completely: Allow your pecans to cool on the baking sheet. This will help them harden and become crunchier.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- They last up to 2 weeks in the fridge.
Freezing Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
- Place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
- Oven: Preheat to 350° F, spread on a baking sheet, and heat for 5-10 minutes.
- Microwave: Microwave for 30-second intervals until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Heat in a pan over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re curious about making Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans, here are some common questions answered.
Can I use other nuts for this recipe?
Yes! While pecans are traditional, almonds or walnuts work well too. Adjust cooking times as needed based on nut size and type.
How do I make my Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to your sugar mixture for a delightful kick that complements the sweetness.
What is the best way to serve Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans?
They make excellent snacks on their own or can be used as toppings for salads, desserts, or even holiday charcuterie boards.
How long do Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans last?
When stored properly, they can last up to two weeks in the refrigerator or up to three months in the freezer without losing flavor.
Final Thoughts
These Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans are not just tasty snacks; they’re versatile treats perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize them with your favorite nuts or spices. Try this simple recipe today and enjoy their sweet, crunchy goodness!
Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
Looking for a delightful snack that’s sweet, crunchy, and perfect for any occasion? Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans are a must-try! These irresistible treats are simple to prepare and make fantastic additions to holiday gatherings, parties, or cozy nights in. With their delectable cinnamon-sugar coating enhancing the natural nuttiness of pecans, they will have everyone coming back for more. Whether enjoyed as a snack or added to your favorite dishes, these pecans are a versatile treat that delights at any time of year.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: About 16 servings 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 pound pecans (or almonds)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 egg white
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp water
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 250° F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a Ziploc bag, mix sugar, cinnamon, and salt; seal and shake until combined.
- In a large bowl, whisk together egg white, vanilla extract, and water until frothy.
- Add the nuts into the egg white mixture and stir until fully coated.
- Transfer the coated nuts into the Ziploc bag with the sugar mixture; seal and shake until evenly coated.
- Spread the nuts on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer and bake for one hour, stirring every 15 minutes.
- Let cool slightly before enjoying.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ounce (28g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
