Introduction

Cinnamon sugar pecans are a delightful and addictive snack that combines the rich flavor of pecans with the sweet and spicy essence of cinnamon sugar. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings, as a topping for desserts, or simply as a tasty treat to satisfy your cravings. In just a few simple steps, you can create a batch of these crunchy, sweet pecans that everyone will love.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Pecans: 2 cups
Sugar: 1 cup
Ground cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
Egg white: 1 large
Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: Approximately 4 cups of cinnamon sugar pecans

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the pecans roast evenly and achieve the perfect texture.

Prepare Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the pecans from sticking and make for easier cleanup.

Mix Sugar and Cinnamon

In a medium-sized bowl, combine granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Stir the two ingredients together until they are evenly mixed.

Coat the Pecans

Add the raw pecans to the bowl with the sugar mixture. Toss the pecans in the mixture until they are thoroughly coated. Ensure every pecan is well-covered for the best flavor.

Spread on Baking Sheet

Transfer the coated pecans to the prepared baking sheet. Spread them out in a single layer to promote even roasting.

Bake the Pecans

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake the pecans for 10-15 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes to ensure they do not burn. The pecans should become fragrant and slightly darker.

Cool the Pecans

Once done, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Allow the pecans to cool on the baking sheet; they will become crunchier as they cool.

Store or Serve

Once completely cooled, you can serve the cinnamon sugar pecans immediately or store them in an airtight container for later enjoyment.

Notes

Choosing Pecans

Opt for raw pecans as they provide the best base for this recipe, allowing the cinnamon sugar coating to adhere well.

Adjusting Sweetness

Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar and cinnamon according to your taste preference. You can also experiment with different spices if desired.

Serving Suggestions

These pecans make a delightful snack on their own but also work well as a topping for salads, yogurt, or desserts.

Storage Recommendations

Store any leftover pecans in a cool, dry place. They can last several weeks if kept in an airtight container.

Cook techniques

Roasting

Roasting pecans brings out their natural flavor and gives them a crispy texture. Preheat your oven and spread the pecans evenly on a baking sheet to ensure even cooking.

Caramelizing

Caramelizing is the process of cooking sugar until it melts and turns golden brown. Combine sugar, butter, and spices to create a delicious coating for your pecans.

Mixing

Proper mixing is key to ensure the pecans are evenly coated with the caramel mixture. Use a spatula to toss the pecans gently until they are well-coated.

Cooling

After roasting and coating the pecans, allow them to cool on parchment paper. This helps maintain their crunchy texture and prevents them from sticking together.

FAQ

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Yes, you can substitute pecans with other nuts like walnuts or almonds for a different flavor and texture.

How can I store cinnamon sugar pecans?

Store cinnamon sugar pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks to maintain freshness.

Can I adjust the amount of cinnamon in the recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the amount of cinnamon to suit your taste preference.

Are cinnamon sugar pecans gluten-free?

Yes, cinnamon sugar pecans are naturally gluten-free as they are made solely from nuts and sugar.

Conclusion

Cinnamon sugar pecans are a delightful snack that combines the warmth of cinnamon with the sweet crunch of pecans. Their versatility makes them suitable for various occasions, whether as a party snack, a topping for desserts, or a simple treat to enjoy at home. With their easy preparation and irresistible flavor, these nuts are sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Cinnamon Sugar Almonds

Similar to cinnamon sugar pecans, using almonds creates a crunchy and spiced treat that can be enjoyed on its own or added to salads for extra flavor.

Cinnamon Sugar Walnuts

Walnuts coated in a cinnamon sugar mixture provide a different texture and enhance the flavor profile, making them perfect for holiday gatherings.

Cinnamon Honey Roasted Cashews

A variation that incorporates honey gives cashews a sweet glaze, combining the richness of cashews with the warmth of cinnamon for a delightful twist.

Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Seeds

For a unique and seasonal alternative, try roasting pumpkin seeds with cinnamon and sugar for a nutritious snack that celebrates fall flavors.

Cinnamon Sugar Trail Mix

Combine your cinnamon sugar pecans with dried fruits, chocolate chips, and other nuts to create a flavorful trail mix that’s perfect for on-the-go snacking.