Cinnamon Sugar Pecans Recipe

If you’re anything like me, you’ll know that sometimes the simplest snacks are the ones that totally knock it out of the park. That’s why I’m so excited to share this Cinnamon Sugar Pecans Recipe with you — it’s sweet, crunchy, a little bit spicy, and just downright addictive. Whether you’re looking for a cozy treat for yourself or a tasty homemade gift, these cinnamon sugar-coated pecans hit every note perfectly. Stick around, because I’m sharing all my tips to help you make these pecans perfectly every time!

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Ingredients & Why They Work

Each ingredient in this Cinnamon Sugar Pecans Recipe has a purpose, and together they create a snack that’s both simple and packed with flavor. I always recommend using fresh pecans for the best crunch and taste — trust me, it makes a difference!

• Egg white: Acts like glue to hold the sugar mixture on the pecans, plus it helps create a crisp coating when baked.
• Water: Adds a tiny bit of moisture so the egg white whips up to fluffy peaks easily.
• Vanilla: Adds warmth and depth to the coating, making the flavors more complex.
• Whole pecans: Fresh, raw pecans provide that perfect crunchy base for the cinnamon sugar goodness.
• Granulated sugar: Gives a clean sweetness and helps create that classic sugary crunch.
• Brown sugar: Adds molasses notes for a richer, caramel-like flavor.
• Cinnamon: The star spice, giving the pecans their signature sweet and spicy kick.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and brings out the flavors even more.

Make It Your Way

One thing I love about this Cinnamon Sugar Pecans Recipe is how forgiving it is — and how easy it is to play with the flavors. I’m always tweaking it depending on the season or my mood, and I encourage you to do the same!

• Variation: For a little extra kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne or chili powder — I tried this once for a movie night, and those spicy-sweet pecans disappeared fast!
• Dietary modification: If you want to keep it vegan, swap out the egg white for aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas). It whips up similarly and keeps your coating intact.
• Seasonal tweak: Around the holidays, I add a dash of nutmeg and ground cloves to the sugar mix to bring out those festive vibes.
• Difficulty level: This is a beginner-friendly recipe, perfect if you’re new to roasting nuts. Just keep an eye during baking so the sugar doesn’t burn.

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

Step 1: Whip up the egg white mixture

Start by preheating your oven to 300°F and lining a baking sheet with foil — this makes cleanup a breeze. Using a hand mixer, beat the egg white and water until you get stiff peaks, like the kind you’d expect for meringue. This is the secret to that beautifully crisp coating. Then, mix in the vanilla for a subtle aromatic touch.

Step 2: Coat the pecans

Toss in the pecans and stir them gently but thoroughly so every nut gets coated in the fluffy egg white mixture. This can be a bit sticky, but patience here pays off — this light coating is what grabs the cinnamon sugar perfectly!

Step 3: Mix and sprinkle the sugar blend

In a separate bowl, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Pour this over the coated pecans and stir carefully to coat each nut. Make sure you break up any clumps of sugar to get an even layer on every pecan.

Step 4: Bake them slow and steady

Spread the sugared pecans in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Pop them in the oven for 15 minutes, then give them a good stir to prevent burning and ensure even baking. Back in they go for 12–15 more minutes—watch closely near the end; you want a golden, toasty look without any scorched sugar.

Step 5: Cooling magic

Once out of the oven, transfer the pecans onto a fresh sheet of aluminum foil or parchment paper to cool. This step helps the coating crisp up fully and stops the pecans from sticking together. Cooling also lets you enjoy that perfectly crunchy texture.

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Pecans Recipe

Garnishes

I often sprinkle these pecans over a simple salad with mixed greens, apples, and goat cheese for an elegant crunch and a burst of sweetness. A dash of flaky sea salt over the cooled pecans also amps up the flavor if you want a little contrast.

Side Dishes

They’re a fantastic nibble alongside a cheese board filled with sharp cheddar, aged gouda, and some dried fruit. I also love serving them as a snack during movie nights or as a topping for oatmeal or yogurt bowls to add a sweet crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday gifting, I package these pecans in pretty mason jars tied with a cinnamon stick and a handwritten tag. At parties, try filling small paper cones or mini treat bags — they’re easy for guests to grab and enjoy without fuss.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover cinnamon sugar pecans in an airtight container at room temperature — they stay fresh and crispy for about two weeks. Just make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing them up to avoid sogginess.

Freezing

Freezing worked surprisingly well for me! I pop the cooled pecans into a freezer-safe bag or container, then thaw them at room temperature whenever I want a quick snack. Just a few hours out of the freezer and they’re ready to crunch.

Reheating

If your pecans lose a bit of crunch, a simple 5-minute toast in a 300°F oven refreshes them perfectly. Keep an eye so they don’t burn — just warm enough to bring back that crisp coating.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

You know, there’s something so satisfying about having a bowl of homemade cinnamon sugar pecans around — whether you’re nibbling between meals or sharing with friends. This recipe has become my go-to when I want a snack that’s sweet, a little bit cozy, and full of crunch. I can’t wait for you to try it, tweak it your way, and make it part of your kitchen favorites. Trust me, once you make these, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them!

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