Looking for holiday party food and snack ideas? Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans are the perfect solution! These deliciously crunchy snacks can be made effortlessly in your oven. Whether it’s for a festive gathering, Thanksgiving dinner, or just a cozy night at home, these pecans will satisfy your sweet cravings. Their delightful cinnamon flavor and satisfying crunch make them an irresistible treat any time of the year.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these up in no time.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and sugar creates a warm, comforting taste that everyone loves.
- Versatile Snack: Perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or even as a sweet addition to salads.
- Great Gift Idea: Pack them in jars as homemade gifts for friends and family during the holidays.
- Healthy Indulgence: Nuts provide healthy fats and protein, making these a better choice than many sugary snacks.
Tools and Preparation
Before you begin making your Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or non-stick foil
- Large mixing bowl
- Ziploc bag
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: This is essential for evenly baking your pecans to achieve that perfect crunch.
- Ziploc bag: Using this helps ensure every nut is coated evenly with the cinnamon sugar mixture.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create your own batch of delicious Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans:
- 1 pound pecans (and/or almonds)
- 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 sticking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large Ziploc bag, combine:
1 cup sugar
1 tbsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp salt
Seal the bag and shake until mixed well.
Step 3: Prepare Wet Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together:
1 egg white
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 tsp water
Whisk until frothy.
Step 4: Coat the Nuts
Add
1 pound pecans (or almonds)
to the egg white mixture. Stir until they are well coated.
Step 5: Shake with Sugar Mixture
Pour the coated nuts into the Ziploc bag. Seal tightly and shake until all nuts are evenly coated with the cinnamon sugar mix.
Step 6: Bake the Pecans
Spread the nuts out on your prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for about one hour, stirring every 15 minutes for even cooking.
Step 7: Enjoy!
Once done, allow them to cool slightly before diving in! Try not to eat them all in one sitting!
How to Serve Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
These Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating yourself, here are some fun serving suggestions.
As a Snack
- Perfect for munching on during movie nights or casual get-togethers.
- Pair them with your favorite beverages for a delightful treat.
On a Cheese Board
- Add these pecans to a cheese platter for a sweet contrast to savory cheeses.
- They complement soft cheeses like Brie and sharp cheeses like aged Cheddar beautifully.
In Salads
- Toss them into mixed greens for an exciting crunch.
- They pair well with vinaigrettes, enhancing the overall flavor of your salad.
As Party Favors
- Package them in cute jars or bags for guests to take home.
- These make great gifts for holidays or special occasions.
With Ice Cream
- Sprinkle over vanilla ice cream for a delicious topping.
- The warm spices add an extra layer of flavor to your dessert.
How to Perfect Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
To ensure your Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans turn out delicious every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh pecans and spices will enhance the flavor profile significantly.
- Watch the Oven Temperature: Baking at 250° F ensures even cooking without burning the sugar.
- Stir Regularly: Stir every 15 minutes while baking for uniform coating and crunchiness.
- Cool Completely: Allow the pecans to cool completely on the baking sheet; this helps them harden properly.
- Store Properly: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain crispness.
- Experiment with Flavors: Try adding nutmeg or cayenne pepper for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
Pairing side dishes with your Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans can elevate any meal. Here are some great options that complement their sweet and crunchy nature.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Their slight bitterness balances the sweetness of the pecans perfectly.
- Sweet Potato Casserole – This dish enhances flavors through its natural sweetness and buttery texture.
- Quinoa Salad – A refreshing salad that adds protein and fiber, making it a healthy pairing.
- Cheesy Garlic Bread – The rich flavors of garlic and cheese contrast nicely with the sugary nuts.
- Apple Slices with Caramel Dip – This classic combo pairs well with pecans, adding more sweetness and crunch.
- Spinach Salad with Feta – The saltiness of feta provides a lovely counterpoint to the sweet nuts.
- Stuffed Acorn Squash – A hearty dish that brings warmth and richness alongside the pecan’s crunch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.
- Not Preheating the Oven: Always preheat your oven properly. This ensures even baking and helps achieve the perfect crispy texture.
- Skipping the Egg White Step: The egg white is essential for coating the nuts evenly. Don’t skip it; whisk until frothy for best results.
- Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: Spread the pecans in a single layer. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and sogginess.
- Ignoring Stirring Intervals: Stirring every 15 minutes is crucial. It promotes even caramelization and prevents burning.
- Not Using Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Freezing Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
- Place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and spread on a baking sheet for about 5-7 minutes until warm and crispy.
- Microwave: Heat in short increments of 20 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Lightly toast in a pan over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans, this section covers some common inquiries.
How do I customize Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans?
You can add different spices like nutmeg or allspice, or switch out pecans for other nuts such as almonds or walnuts.
Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?
Yes, using brown sugar will give your pecans a deeper flavor and slightly different texture.
How long do Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans last?
When stored properly, they can last up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator and up to 3 months in the freezer.
Are Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great snack for those with dietary restrictions.
Final Thoughts
These Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans are not only delightful snacks but also versatile enough for any occasion. Customize them with your favorite nuts or spices to make them truly your own. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just craving something sweet, these pecans are sure to please!
Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
Looking for a delightful snack to brighten your holiday gatherings? Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans are the perfect answer! These crunchy, sweet treats combine the warmth of cinnamon with the rich flavor of pecans, making them an irresistible indulgence. Whether you’re hosting a festive party or enjoying a cozy night in, these simple snacks are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Easy to prepare and incredibly versatile, you can serve them as a standalone treat, add them to salads, or use them as a charming gift for friends and family.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x
- 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 your oven to 250°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a Ziploc bag, mix together sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
- In a bowl, whisk the egg white, vanilla extract, and water until frothy.
- Add nuts to the egg white mixture and stir to coat evenly.
- Transfer coated nuts to the Ziploc bag and shake until well-covered in sugar mixture.
- Spread nuts on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer and bake for about one hour, stirring every 15 minutes.
- Allow to cool before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ounce (28g)
- Calories: 155
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 51mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
