© Original recipe by The Daily Dishboard ©
🍬✨ Easy Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Pecans – A Crunchy, Aromatic Bliss! 🌰
1. Introduction
If you’re craving a snack that combines sweetness, spice, and crunch in every bite, then cinnamon sugar pecans are your new best friend. These irresistibly crispy, flavor-packed nuts are perfect for a quick treat or a gift. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a little bit of oven magic, you can create easy homemade pecans that will impress everyone at the table. Whether you’re snacking on them straight out of the oven or adding them to salads, desserts, or cheese boards, these cinnamon sugared nuts deliver a delightful experience that keeps you coming back for more.
2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in 30 minutes — Quick enough for a spontaneous snack craving.
- One-pan simplicity — No complicated equipment needed, just a baking sheet.
- Healthy flavor boosting — Naturally sweet, aromatic, and perfect for sharing or gifting.
- Customizable — Adjust spice level or sweetness to suit your taste.
3. Ingredient Notes
When making cinnamon sugar pecans, quality ingredients really shine. Opt for raw, unsalted pecans to control salt content and let the natural nutty flavor shine through. You can buy high-quality pecans from your local store or order premium ones online. The cinnamon should be ground and fresh for more aromatic flavor, paired with granulated sugar and a touch of brown sugar if you prefer a richer molasses undertone. For the best coating, use pure vanilla extract, which adds a subtle warmth that enhances the sweet spices.
4. Kitchen Tools You Need
Achieve perfectly coated and crispy cinnamon sugared nuts using the right tools. For even roasting and easier cleanup, consider the T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set. When spreading the pecans, a Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast 4-in-1 is a fantastic option for control and fast results. For precise measurements and mixing, a KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer can help combine the sugar and cinnamon effortlessly, especially if you want to double the batch.
5. How to Make Easy Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
Step 1: Prepare the Coating
In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, a pinch of salt, and a splash of vanilla extract. The aroma of cinnamon and vanilla will start to fill your kitchen even at this stage.
Step 2: Coat the Pecans
Spread 2 cups of raw pecans on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of egg white (for extra crunch and adhesion), then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the nuts. Toss gently using a spatula or spoon until each pecan is coated well. You’ll notice the coating turning sticky and forming a beautiful, even layer.
Step 3: Bake to Crispy Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roast the coated pecans for 12-15 minutes, stirring once or twice. The nuts should be fragrant and golden. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, especially the sugar coating. When done, let them cool completely—they’ll harden and develop that satisfying crunch.
6. Expert Tips for Success
- Ensure your pecans are evenly coated by tossing them thoroughly after adding the cinnamon sugar mixture.
- For an extra glossy finish, brush the pecans with a little honey or syrup before baking.
- If you prefer softer or sweeter pecans, sprinkle a little more sugar after cooling.
- Use fresh cinnamon for a more potent, aromatic flavor—old cinnamon can lose its punch over time.
7. Variations & Substitutions
Want to customize your cinnamon sugar pecans? Swap traditional sugar for coconut sugar for a slightly caramelized flavor or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. For a dairy-free option, skip the egg white and use a light spritz of cooking spray instead. For those with nut allergies, consider using roasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds as a crunchy alternative.
8. Storage & Reheating
Store your cinnamon sugared nuts in an airtight container for up to two weeks at room temperature. To keep them crispy, avoid humidity. If they lose their crunch, gently warm them in a low oven or air fryer for a few minutes to restore crispiness—see this compact 6-in-1 digital air fryer for quick and even reheating.
9. FAQ
Can I make these cinnamon sugar pecans gluten-free?
Yes! Simply ensure your cinnamon and sugar are gluten-free. These nuts are naturally gluten-free, making them a perfect snack for those with gluten sensitivities.
How do I make these pecans vegan?
Replace the egg white with a light spritz of vegetable oil or a dairy-free egg replacer to help the cinnamon sugar stick to the nuts.
Are these pecans suitable for gift-giving?
Absolutely! Once cooled and packaged in a nice jar or bag with a ribbon, these cinnamon sugared nuts make a thoughtful, tasty gift.
10. Conclusion
In just half an hour, you can whip up a batch of these delightful cinnamon sugar pecans that are perfect for snacking, gifting, or topping your favorite desserts. The warm aroma, sweet spice, and crunchy texture make every bite a moment of comfort and indulgence. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the irresistible crunch of homemade goodness!
Print
Easy Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
Sweet, crunchy cinnamon sugar pecans coated in a warm caramelized glaze, perfect for snacks or toppings.
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 cups
Ingredients
- 2 cups pecans
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt, stirring until smooth.
- Add pecans, stirring to coat evenly.
- Spread pecans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden and fragrant.
- Allow to cool before serving or storing in an airtight container.
Notes
- Make sure to watch the pecans closely to prevent burning during baking.
- Store in an airtight container for up to a week for maximum freshness.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 180 Kcal
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg