Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Pecans Recipe

There’s something utterly irresistible about the crunch and warmth of nuts coated in cinnamon and sugar — trust me, once you try this Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Pecans Recipe, you’ll be hooked just like I was! It’s one of those simple but spectacular treats that feel fancy enough for guests but are easy enough for a weekday snack. Seriously, these pecans are my go-to for gifting, topping salads, or sneaking handfuls when no one’s watching.

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Ingredients & Why They Work

This Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Pecans Recipe shines because each ingredient has a purpose, creating that perfect sticky-sweet coating while preserving the pecans’ natural nuttiness. A quick heads-up: using fresh pecans makes a huge difference in flavor and crunch, so always try to buy them from a trusted source.

• Egg white: Acts like a glue, helping the sugar and cinnamon stick evenly to every pecan.
• Water: Thins the egg white slightly, making it easier to whip to the perfect texture.
• Vanilla extract: A touch of warm flavor that elevates the sugary coating without overpowering.
• Whole pecans: The star ingredient—fresh and lightly toasted gives the best crunch and flavor.
• Granulated sugar: Adds a straightforward sweet crunch that’s classic and clean.
• Brown sugar: Brings in a rich, molasses undertone that deepens the flavor complexity.
• Cinnamon: Gives that warm spiced note, perfectly complementing the sweetness.
• Salt: Just a pinch to balance and bring out the sweetness while enhancing pecan flavor.

Tweak to Your Taste

I love making this recipe my own by adjusting the spices and sweetness level depending on what mood I’m in or the occasion. Don’t hesitate to make it your own—you’ll enjoy it so much more when it matches your cravings perfectly.

• Spicy Twist: I once added a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle heat that perfectly offset the sweetness—unexpected but addictive!
• Maple Swap: Replacing vanilla with a teaspoon of pure maple syrup adds a cozy fall vibe that’s fantastic for holiday gifting.
• Nut Variations: If pecans aren’t your favorite, try this method with walnuts or almonds—I’ve done both, and they come out just as delicious.
• Less Sugar: Sometimes I reduce the sugar by a quarter for a less-sweet version that’s still totally satisfying, especially if you prefer your nuts more savory.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Pecans Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 300°F. Line a baking sheet with foil—that’s my go-to for easy cleanup—and give it a light spray with cooking spray so the pecans don’t stick. Trust me, it makes the whole process feel so much easier later on.

Step 2: Whip the Egg White Mixture

Using a hand mixer, beat the egg white with water until it holds stiff peaks. This means when you lift the beaters, the peaks stand straight up without falling over—a little test I always do. Then, add vanilla and mix quickly to combine. This step really makes the sugar cling beautifully in the next step.

Step 3: Coat the Pecans

Dump your pecans into the bowl and toss them gently but thoroughly into that fluffy egg white mixture until every nut is coated. I like using a spatula here so I don’t crush the pecans. It’s an easy but important step! Then set that aside.

Step 4: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar Blend

In a small bowl, stir together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. This blend is what brings the magic flavor and texture you’re after, so make sure it’s mixed well.

Step 5: Combine & Spread on Sheet

Pour your cinnamon sugar mix right over the coated pecans and use a spatula or spoon to fold and toss everything until every nut has some sugary love. Spread the pecans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet for even roasting.

Step 6: Bake and Stir

Bake for 15 minutes, then pull them out and give the pecans a good stir—this keeps the roasting even so some don’t burn while others are underdone. Slide back into the oven for another 12-15 minutes to finish baking.

Step 7: Cool to Crunch

Once baked, remove the pan and spread the pecans on a fresh sheet of foil to cool. This lets them crisp up perfectly as they cool down—don’t skip this or you’ll miss that amazing crunchy texture!

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Pecans Recipe

Garnishes

I love sprinkling these pecans over salads with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette—adds just the right amount of sweetness and crunch! They also make a gorgeous garnish on top of desserts like pumpkin pie or creamy vanilla ice cream. Oh, and don’t overlook tossing them in oatmeal bowls for breakfast; it’s a little burst of joy in every bite.

Side Dishes

Pairing these cinnamon sugar roasted pecans with roasted root vegetables or a spiced butternut squash soup makes for a cozy, comforting meal. I often bring a bowl along for holiday cheese boards—paired with sharp cheddar and some sliced apples, they’re honestly magic.

Creative Ways to Present

For gifting or parties, I like to package the pecans in little mason jars with a festive ribbon and a handwritten tag. It feels warm and personal. Another time, I served them in small paper cones at a casual get-together for easy snacking—everyone loved nibbling on them all evening!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover pecans in an airtight container at room temperature, away from heat and light. They keep their crispness this way for up to two weeks, but trust me—they never last that long in my house.

Freezing

If I want to keep these pecans longer, I freeze them in a sealed freezer-safe bag. They stay fresh for up to three months. When ready to use, I just let them thaw at room temperature—no need to thaw completely if you’re topping something warm.

Reheating

To refresh the crunch, I pop the pecans in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes before serving. Keep an eye on them so they don’t re-burn—the heat revives their crisp texture wonderfully without drying them out.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Pecans Recipe has become a personal favorite because it’s simple, delicious, and so versatile. Whether you’re making a quick snack or a thoughtful homemade gift, these pecans always impress. I encourage you to try making them exactly as I do, then tweak the spices to suit your taste. Once you get the hang of this recipe, you’ll see how easy it is to add a little sweetness and crunch to everyday moments. Go ahead, treat yourself and enjoy every bite!

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