If you’re looking for a delightful snack that combines the warmth of spices with the crunch of nuts, look no further than cinnamon sugar pecans. This recipe is not only incredibly easy to follow but also yields a treat that is perfect for any occasion—from holiday gatherings to cozy nights in. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a batch of these sweet and crunchy delights that are sure to impress your family and friends. The combination of rich pecans coated in a sugary cinnamon blend creates a mouthwatering experience you won’t forget. Whether enjoyed as an afternoon snack or used as a topping for desserts like ice cream or yogurt, these cinnamon sugar pecans are bound to become your new favorite go-to treat. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe!
Why You’ll Love This cinnamon sugar pecans
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for cinnamon sugar pecans
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Pecans: Use fresh whole pecan halves for the best texture and flavor; they should be crisp with no off smells.
- Granulated Sugar: Regular white sugar works best for creating the sweet coating; adjust the amount based on your sweetness preference.
- Cinnamon Powder: Ground cinnamon gives the distinct flavor; ensure it’s fresh for maximum aroma.
- Salt: A pinch of salt enhances the overall taste by balancing sweetness; use fine sea salt for even distribution.
- Egg White: Used as a binding agent to help the sugar adhere to the nuts; it should be beaten lightly before use.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make cinnamon sugar pecans
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare Pecan Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine granulated sugar, cinnamon powder, and salt. Stir well until evenly mixed.
Step 3: Whisk Egg White
In another bowl, whisk the egg white until frothy but not stiff. This will help the sugar mixture stick to the nuts.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Add the pecan halves to the bowl with frothy egg white. Toss gently until all nuts are coated evenly.
Step 5: Coat with Sugar Mixture
Sprinkle the sugar-cinnamon mixture over the coated pecans. Toss again until all nuts are well coated.
Step 6: Bake Perfectly
Spread the coated pecans onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake in preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown, stirring halfway through.
Transfer to plates and enjoy warm or let cool completely before storing them in an airtight container.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Monitor Closely While Baking: Keep an eye on your pecans towards the end of baking time; they can burn quickly due to high sugar content.
- Storage Tips: Store cooled pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
- Add Variety: Feel free to experiment by adding other spices like nutmeg or vanilla extract for unique flavor profiles.
How to Serve cinnamon sugar pecans
This cinnamon sugar pecans is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare your cinnamon sugar pecans in advance by roasting them and storing them in an airtight container. You can make them up to a week ahead for optimal flavor.
- Storing: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator where they can last for about a month.
- Reheating: To reheat, spread the pecans on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until they are heated through and crispy again.
Suggestions for cinnamon sugar pecans
Use Fresh Ingredients
When making cinnamon sugar pecans, using fresh ingredients is crucial for achieving the best flavor. Stale nuts or old spices can lead to a bland outcome. Always check the expiration dates on your cinnamon and sugar, as well as the freshness of your pecans. If you can, opt for raw, unsalted pecans and grind your own cinnamon if possible. Freshness enhances the nutty flavor and adds richness to the dish, making it an enjoyable treat. Avoid shortcuts by using pre-packaged mixes; they often lack quality and authenticity.
Control the Cooking Temperature
Cooking your cinnamon sugar pecans at the right temperature is essential to avoid burning them. A common mistake is using high heat, which can lead to uneven cooking and a bitter taste. Instead, aim for a moderate oven temperature around 350°F (175°C). This allows the sugars to caramelize slowly without burning. Stirring frequently during roasting helps ensure even coating and prevents clumping. Keep an eye on them, as nuts can go from perfectly toasted to burnt in just a few minutes.
Balance Cinnamon and Sugar
Striking the right balance between cinnamon and sugar is key to creating delicious cinnamon sugar pecans. Too much sugar can make them overly sweet, while too little can result in a lackluster flavor. A common guideline is to use one part cinnamon to three parts sugar. However, feel free to adjust based on personal preference or dietary needs. Taste-testing before baking ensures that you achieve the perfect blend of sweetness and spice, resulting in a delightful snack.
Store Properly
Proper storage of your cinnamon sugar pecans helps maintain their crisp texture and flavor over time. After cooling completely, transfer them into an airtight container to keep moisture out. Avoid storing them in direct sunlight or warm areas; instead, opt for a cool pantry or cupboard. If stored correctly, they can last up to two weeks without losing quality. However, for longer storage, consider freezing them in a freezer-safe bag; just remember to let them thaw before enjoying.
FAQs
How long do cinnamon sugar pecans last?
Cinnamon sugar pecans can last up to two weeks when stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature. To extend their shelf life, you may freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months without significant loss of flavor or texture. Just ensure they are fully cooled before packing away. If you notice any signs of moisture or changes in smell, it’s best not to consume them.
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes! While this recipe focuses on cinnamon sugar pecans, you can substitute other nuts like almonds, walnuts, or cashews if desired. Each type of nut will provide its unique flavor profile while still complementing the sweetness of the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Adjust cooking times accordingly since different nuts may require varying roasting times for optimal results.
Are cinnamon sugar pecans healthy?
Cinnamon sugar pecans offer some health benefits due to the nutritional value of nuts and spices used in the recipe. Pecans are rich in healthy fats and essential nutrients like vitamin E and magnesium. However, be mindful of portion sizes due to added sugars during preparation; moderation is key when enjoying sweets like these treats.
Can I make my cinnamon sugar blend?
Absolutely! Making your own cinnamon sugar blend allows you full control over flavors and sweetness levels based on personal preferences or dietary restrictions. Simply mix equal parts ground cinnamon with granulated sugar until well combined; feel free to experiment by adding other spices such as nutmeg or vanilla powder for variation!
Conclusion for cinnamon sugar pecans
In conclusion, mastering the art of making delicious cinnamon sugar pecans requires attention to detail and some simple techniques. By avoiding common mistakes such as using stale ingredients or cooking at inappropriate temperatures, you elevate your final product significantly. Balancing flavors plays an important role too; ensuring that both sweetness from sugar and warmth from cinnamon shine through creates an irresistible treat perfect for snacking or gifting alike! With proper storage practices in mind, these delightful nuts will remain fresh longer so that you can savor each bite whenever cravings strike!
Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
Description
Cinnamon sugar pecans are the perfect blend of crunchy, sweet, and spicy delight. This easy recipe transforms simple pecans into a flavor-packed snack that’s great for any occasion—be it holiday gatherings or cozy nights in. With just a few pantry staples like sugar, cinnamon, and egg whites, you can whip up a batch in no time. These pecans make an excellent standalone treat or can be used as a topping for desserts, salads, or even yogurt. Their irresistible aroma will fill your kitchen, making them hard to resist!
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole pecan halves
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg white
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt; mix well.
- Whisk the egg white until frothy but not stiff.
- Add pecans to the bowl with the egg white and toss until well coated.
- Sprinkle the sugar mixture over the coated nuts and toss again until evenly coated.
- Spread pecans in a single layer on the baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown, stirring halfway through.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Snack/Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ounce / 28g
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
