Looking for holiday party food and snack ideas? Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans are a delightful treat that can elevate any gathering. These sweet, crunchy snacks are simple to make in the oven and perfect for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any festive occasion. Their irresistible flavor and satisfying crunch make them a standout choice for snacking anytime you crave something sweet and savory.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare – This recipe takes minimal time in the kitchen while delivering maximum flavor.
- Versatile Snack – Perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or as a cozy treat anytime.
- Irresistible Flavor – The blend of cinnamon and sugar creates a deliciously sweet and aromatic snack.
- Crowd-Pleasing Treat – These candied pecans are sure to impress your guests or family members!
- Easy Storage – They stay fresh for days, making them great for meal prepping or gifting.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to gather your tools. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth experience while making your Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or non-stick foil
- Large mixing bowl
- Large ziploc bag
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet – Provides an even surface for roasting the pecans, ensuring they cook uniformly.
- Parchment paper or non-stick foil – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy after baking.
Ingredients
For the Nuts
- 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 to prevent the pecans from sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Sugar Mixture
In a large ziploc bag, mix together:
1. 1 cup sugar
2. 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
3. 1/2 teaspoon salt
Shake well until combined.
Step 3: Whisk the Egg White Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. 1 egg white
2. 2 teaspoons water
3. 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Whisk until frothy.
Step 4: Coat the Nuts
Add the pecans (or almonds) to the egg white mixture. Stir until each nut is well coated with the mixture.
Step 5: Shake with Sugar Mixture
Pour the coated nuts into the ziploc bag with sugar mixture. Seal it tightly and shake vigorously until all nuts are evenly covered.
Step 6: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Spread the coated nuts out in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour. Stir every 15 minutes to ensure even cooking.
Step 8: Enjoy!
Let cool slightly before serving. Try not to eat them all in one sitting!
How to Serve Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
These Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or just looking for a satisfying snack, these candied nuts will surely impress your guests.
As a Snack
- Enjoy them straight from the bowl for an irresistible crunchy treat.
- Pair with dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a sweet and savory mix.
On a Charcuterie Board
- Arrange them alongside cheeses and meats to add a sweet contrast.
- Add fresh fruits like apple slices for an appealing color scheme.
In Salads
- Toss them into green salads for added crunch and sweetness.
- Sprinkle on top of fruit salads to elevate the flavor profile.
Gift Them
- Package in cute jars tied with ribbons for a thoughtful homemade gift.
- Include a recipe card so recipients can make their own delicious batch.
With Cocktails
- Serve as a nibble with cocktails at parties or casual get-togethers.
- Complement classic drinks like whiskey or sparkling wine for an upscale touch.
How to Perfect Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
To ensure your Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Use fresh nuts: Fresh pecans enhance the flavor and crunchiness of your treat.
- Watch the baking time: Baking too long can lead to burnt nuts; stir every 15 minutes for even cooking.
- Customize spices: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or ginger for unique flavors.
- Cool completely: Let them cool on the baking sheet before storing to maintain crispness.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans make an excellent addition to many meals. Here are some side dishes that complement their sweetness beautifully.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts – The slight bitterness of Brussels sprouts pairs well with sweet pecans.
- Sweet Potato Casserole – A classic dish that harmonizes with the cinnamon flavor of the pecans.
- Apple Salad – Fresh apples add brightness and balance against the sweetness of the nuts.
- Cheese Platter – A variety of cheeses brings richness that contrasts nicely with cinnamon sugar pecans.
- Cranberry Sauce – The tartness of cranberry sauce offers a delightful counterpoint to the sweet pecans.
- Glazed Carrots – Sweet, buttery carrots enhance the overall sweetness when served together.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your pecans turn out perfectly.
- Skipping the Egg White: Not using an egg white can lead to uneven coating. Make sure to whisk it until frothy for better adherence.
- Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: Placing too many pecans on the baking sheet can cause them to stick together. Spread them out in a single layer for even cooking.
- Not Stirring Often Enough: Forgetting to stir every 15 minutes can result in uneven baking. Set a timer and keep those pecans moving!
- Ignoring Oven Temperature: Baking at too high a temperature can burn your pecans. Stick to 250° F for the best results.
- Storing Too Soon: Storing while still warm can make them soggy. Let your Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans cool completely before storing.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- They will last up to two weeks in the refrigerator.
Freezing Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
- Freeze in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to three months.
Reheating Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
- Oven: Preheat oven to 300° F and bake for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 10-15 seconds until warm, but be cautious as they may become chewy.
- Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat, stirring frequently for even warming.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.
Can I use other nuts besides pecans?
Yes, you can substitute almonds or walnuts if you prefer. The recipe works well with various nuts.
How do I know when my pecans are done baking?
Your Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans should be golden brown and fragrant when done. Stir them every 15 minutes for even browning.
What is the best way to serve these pecans?
These pecans make great snacks for parties and holidays. Serve them in bowls or as toppings on desserts for added crunch!
Can I adjust the sweetness level?
Absolutely! Feel free to reduce the sugar amount depending on your taste preferences.
Final Thoughts
Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile! Perfect for any occasion, you can customize them by adding different spices or even a pinch of cayenne for heat. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy these sweet treats at your next gathering!
Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
Looking for a delightful snack that will impress your guests at holiday gatherings? Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans are your go-to choice! These sweet and crunchy treats are incredibly simple to prepare and make the perfect addition to any festive occasion. With their irresistible cinnamon-sugar coating, they offer a satisfying blend of sweet and savory flavors that everyone will love. Plus, they stay fresh for days, making them ideal for gift-giving or meal prepping. Whether enjoyed on their own or as part of a charcuterie board, these pecans are sure to become a favorite!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings
- 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 oven to 250°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large ziploc bag, combine sugar, cinnamon, and salt; shake well.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together egg white, water, and vanilla until frothy.
- Add nuts to the egg mixture and stir until coated.
- Pour coated nuts into the ziploc bag with sugar mixture; seal and shake until well covered.
- Arrange nuts in a single layer on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes for even cooking.
- Let cool before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
