Cinnamon Sugar Pecans

Introduction

If you’re craving a snack that’s both sweet and a little bit spiced, then Cinnamon Sugar Pecans are about to become your new favorite treat! Seriously, these crunchy little nuts are the perfect balance of warm cinnamon, sugary sweetness, and just the right amount of spice. Every bite is like a mini flavor explosion that will make you want to reach for more.

I’ve made these pecans so many times—whether it’s for movie night with friends, a last-minute holiday gift, or just to have a sweet little snack on hand—and they’re always a hit. The best part? They’re so easy to make! You don’t need a ton of ingredients or complicated steps. It’s all about tossing the pecans with some sugar, cinnamon, and a little butter, then popping them in the oven. They’ll be ready in no time, and the smell while they’re baking? Oh my goodness. It fills the whole house with a cozy, cinnamon-spiced aroma that makes you feel like you’re wrapped in a blanket on a chilly day.

And let me tell you, once they’re done, you’ll be hooked. These Cinnamon Sugar Pecans are the perfect snack for any occasion—they’re sweet enough to satisfy your cravings but just salty enough to keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re snacking solo or sharing them with friends, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s make these irresistible little bites of joy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are some reasons you’ll fall head over heels for these Cinnamon Sugar Pecans:

• Addictive Flavor: Sweet, cinnamon-spiced pecans with a hint of caramelization – what’s not to love?
• Simple Ingredients: You don’t need a lot to make something truly delicious.
• Perfect for Gifting: Pack them up in a jar with a ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making them the perfect last-minute snack.
• Versatile: Great as a snack on their own, or use them to top salads, oatmeal, or baked goods.
• Kid-Friendly: Perfect for little hands to snack on, and kids can even help with the simple process.
• Customizable: Add a pinch of cayenne for some heat or a splash of vanilla for extra flavor.
• Allergen-Friendly: Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making them great for almost everyone!
• A Crowd-Pleaser: Whether at a party or a cozy gathering, these will quickly disappear.

Preparation Time and Cook Time

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 150 calories
• Key Nutrients: Fiber: 2g, Fat: 13g, Carbohydrates: 9g, Protein: 2g

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make your Cinnamon Sugar Pecans:

• 1 cup pecan halves
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon butter (melted)
• 1 tablespoon water

Ingredient Highlights

• Pecans: Rich in healthy fats, fiber, and protein, pecans make a deliciously crunchy base for this treat.
• Cinnamon: Brings the warm, comforting spice that takes this recipe over the top.
• Butter: Adds a bit of richness to the coating and helps everything stick together.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Cinnamon Sugar Pecans:

Prepare the Pecans

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Mix the Coating: In a small bowl, mix the sugar, cinnamon, and salt together.
3. Coat the Pecans: In a medium bowl, toss the pecans with the melted butter and water, ensuring they’re evenly coated. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the pecans and toss again until fully coated.
4. Bake: Spread the pecans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden and fragrant.
5. Cool: Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet. They’ll become extra crunchy as they cool.

How to Serve

Here are a few fun ways to enjoy your Cinnamon Sugar Pecans:

1. As a Snack: Perfect for munching on throughout the day or when you’re craving something sweet.
2. In Salads: Add a handful of pecans to your salad for a crunchy, sweet twist.
3. On Oatmeal or Yogurt: Sprinkle them on top of oatmeal, yogurt, or chia pudding for an extra crunch and flavor boost.
4. As a Gift: Package them in cute jars or bags with a festive ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift.
5. Pair with Coffee or Tea: Enjoy with a warm cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate cozy snack.
6. On Ice Cream: Top off your favorite ice cream or frozen yogurt with a few pecans for extra flavor.

Additional Tips

Maximize your enjoyment of Cinnamon Sugar Pecans with these helpful tips:

1. Even Coating: Make sure the pecans are evenly coated by tossing them a few times before baking.
2. Watch the Oven: Keep a close eye on them towards the end of baking to prevent burning. They can go from golden to too crispy in a minute.
3. Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They’ll stay fresh and crunchy!
4. Batch Prep: Double the recipe and keep a batch in your pantry for whenever a sweet snack attack strikes.
5. Experiment with Spices: Swap out cinnamon for other spices like nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice for a new twist.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Sweet and Salty: Add a pinch of sea salt after baking for a perfect sweet-and-salty combo.
• Add Vanilla: Stir in a teaspoon of vanilla extract with the butter and water for a deeper flavor.
• Spicy Kick: If you love a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Once the pecans have cooled, drizzle with melted chocolate for an indulgent treat.
• Maple Pecan: Swap out the sugar for maple syrup and reduce the water for a maple-flavored twist.

Freezing and Storage

To keep your Cinnamon Sugar Pecans fresh:

• Storage: Keep them in an airtight container for up to 7 days at room temperature.
• Freezing: You can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just let them cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
• Thawing: Let them thaw at room temperature for a crunchy snack any time.

Special Equipment

Here’s a quick rundown of the tools you’ll need:

• Baking Sheet: For roasting the pecans.
• Parchment Paper: For easy cleanup and even roasting.
• Medium Bowl: For mixing the pecans and coating ingredients.
• Small Bowl: For mixing the cinnamon-sugar coating.
• Spatula or Spoon: For stirring and tossing the pecans.

FAQ Section

Here are some answers to common questions about Cinnamon Sugar Pecans:

• Can I use other nuts?
  Yes! Feel free to substitute pecans with almonds, walnuts, or cashews for a different flavor.
• How long can I store these?
  They’ll stay fresh in an airtight container for up to a week at room temperature.
• Can I make them ahead?
  Absolutely! Make them in advance and store them for a perfect snack anytime.
• Can I use coconut oil instead of butter?
  Yes, coconut oil will work if you prefer a dairy-free version.
• Can I make them spicier?
  Definitely! Add a bit more cayenne or chili powder for a spicy kick.
• Can I make them ahead of time?
• Yes, these pecans are great for making ahead! In fact, letting them sit for a day or two enhances the flavors. Just store them in an airtight container and they’ll be ready to snack on whenever you like!
• Can I use maple syrup instead of sugar?
• While sugar gives these pecans their crunchy coating, you can try using maple syrup for a different twist. Keep in mind that maple syrup will give them a chewier texture and you may need to bake them a little longer.
• How do I make these nuts less sweet?
• If you prefer a less sweet version, simply reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe. You can also add a pinch of sea salt to balance out the sweetness and enhance the flavor.
• Can I freeze Cinnamon Sugar Pecans?
• Yes, you can freeze these pecans! Just let them cool completely, then store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. Simply thaw at room temperature before serving.
• What can I use Cinnamon Sugar Pecans for?
• These pecans make a great snack on their own, but they’re also perfect as a topping for salads, oatmeal, yogurt, or baked goods. You can even gift them in cute jars for the holidays!

Print

Conclusion

Cinnamon Sugar Pecans are the perfect treat for anyone with a sweet tooth (and a love for crunchy snacks). These simple yet delightful morsels are a hit at any gathering or as a quick snack when you need something sweet and satisfying. The best part? They come together in no time with minimal ingredients, making them perfect for a busy day or a last-minute snack. So go ahead—whip up a batch of these sweet, spiced pecans and enjoy every crunchy bite.

The combination of warm cinnamon and sugary sweetness coats the pecans in the most delicious way, making each bite a little burst of flavor. It’s one of those treats that’s hard to stop eating once you start—trust me, you’ll be reaching for more!

I can’t wait to see how your Cinnamon Sugar Pecans turn out! Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on social media – I love seeing your delicious creations! Whether you’re snacking solo or sharing them with friends and family, I’d love to hear all about it. Enjoy!