Cinnamon Sugar Candied Pecans

There’s something irresistibly cozy about cinnamon sugar candied pecans. The combination of warm cinnamon, sweet sugar, and lightly roasted pecans creates a snack that’s both crunchy and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. These candied pecans are perfect for holiday treats, gift-giving, or just keeping a bowl handy for whenever a sweet craving strikes.

With a simple oven-baked method, this recipe turns ordinary pecans into an extraordinary snack. The cinnamon sugar coating caramelizes beautifully as the nuts bake, creating a glossy, crunchy finish that’s impossible to resist. Whether you sprinkle them over salads, toss them into baked goods, or simply enjoy them on their own, these candied pecans are versatile and utterly addictive.

Why You’ll Love These Cinnamon Sugar Candied Pecans

• Quick Prep: Just 10 minutes of prep before baking.
• Long-Lasting Snack: Store at room temperature or freeze for later enjoyment.
• Versatile: Great for topping desserts, salads, or oatmeal.
• Perfect Gift: Makes a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family.
• Sweet and Crunchy: Caramelized sugar coating creates the perfect crunch.
• Holiday-Ready: Adds warmth and sweetness to festive tables and charcuterie boards.

Ingredients Breakdown

• 1 cup (207g) sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg white
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cups (448g) pecan halves

Yield

• 16 servings

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Large rimmed baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Mixing bowls (small and large)
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooling rack (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet

1. Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sugar Mixture

1. In a small bowl, combine the sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside for later use.

Step 3: Whip Egg White and Butter

1. In a large mixing bowl, whip the egg white and vanilla extract until frothy (about 1 minute). This can be done using an electric mixer or by hand with a whisk.
2. Add the melted butter to the egg whites and whisk until combined.

Step 4: Coat Pecans

1. Add the pecan halves to the egg white mixture. Stir until the nuts are evenly coated.
2. Gradually add the sugar-cinnamon mixture to the pecans. Stir thoroughly to ensure all pecans are coated evenly.

Step 5: Bake the Pecans

1. Spread the coated pecans evenly onto the prepared baking sheet.
2. Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even caramelization.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

1. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the pecans to cool completely.
2. Once cooled, serve immediately, or store for later use.

Tips & Variations

• Nut Substitutions: Walnuts, almonds, or cashews can be used instead of pecans.
• Spice Variations: Add nutmeg, allspice, or pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist.
• Sweetness Level: Reduce sugar slightly if you prefer a less sweet snack.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle with melted chocolate for extra indulgence.
• Gift Packaging: Store in decorative jars or bags for holiday gifting.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

• Texture: Crunchy exterior with a tender nut interior.
• Taste: Sweet, warm, and slightly spiced with cinnamon and a hint of salt.
• Pairing Ideas: Sprinkle over oatmeal, ice cream, salads, or yogurt. Works beautifully on charcuterie boards or holiday desserts.

Nutritional Overview

Approximate per serving (based on 16 servings):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	254 kcal
Sugar	13.7 g
Sodium	149.2 mg
Fat	21.1 g
Carbohydrates	16.7 g
Protein	2.8 g
Cholesterol	3.8 mg

Dietary Notes: Contains nuts and egg. Gluten-free if using pure pecans.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Prep Ahead: Pecans can be coated and prepared in advance; bake just before serving for freshest texture.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use liquid sweetener instead of sugar?
A1: Powdered or granulated sugar is best for creating a crisp coating. Liquid sweeteners may not caramelize properly.

Q2: Can I make these without egg whites?
A2: Egg whites help the sugar adhere and create a glossy finish. Without them, you may need to lightly brush the pecans with melted butter first.

Q3: Can I use roasted pecans?
A3: Raw pecans are recommended for even caramelization. Roasted pecans may overbrown during the 1-hour bake.

Q4: Can I make smaller batches?
A4: Yes, simply halve the ingredient amounts. Adjust baking time slightly to prevent overbaking.

Q5: How do I prevent pecans from sticking together?
A5: Stir the pecans every 15 minutes during baking and spread them in a single layer.

Cooking Timeline (at a Glance)

Step	Time
Preheat oven and prepare baking sheet	5 minutes
Mix sugar and spices	2 minutes
Whip egg white and butter	2 minutes
Coat pecans	3 minutes
Bake	1 hour (stir every 15 min)
Cool	10–15 minutes

Serving Suggestions

• Serve in a decorative bowl as a snack or appetizer.
• Toss over winter salads for added crunch and sweetness.
• Add to holiday dessert platters or charcuterie boards.
• Sprinkle over ice cream, yogurt, or oatmeal for extra texture.

Recipe Variations

1. Spicy Candied Pecans: Add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper for a sweet-heat twist.
2. Maple Cinnamon Pecans: Replace vanilla with 1 tbsp maple syrup for rich flavor.
3. Chocolate-Dipped: Dip half of the cooled pecans in melted chocolate and let set.
4. Savory-Sweet: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili powder for a unique snack.

Ingredient Spotlight

Pecans

• Selection: Choose fresh, plump pecan halves with no cracks.
• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place or refrigerate for extended freshness.
• Enhancement: Lightly toast pecans before coating for deeper flavor.

Cinnamon

• Selection: Use fresh, aromatic ground cinnamon for the best flavor.
• Substitutions: For a warm spice blend, combine cinnamon with nutmeg or allspice.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Use a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
• Stir frequently during baking to avoid burning the sugar coating.
• Ensure pecans are evenly coated to achieve consistent caramelization.
• Cool completely before storing to maintain crispness.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Airtight Container: Keep at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
• Freezing: Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Thawing: Allow to come to room temperature before serving; do not microwave.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount	Dietary Notes
Calories	254 kcal	Sweet, crunchy snack
Protein	2.8 g	From pecans
Carbohydrates	16.7 g	Includes sugar coating
Fat	21.1 g	Healthy fats from pecans
Fiber	3 g	From pecans
Suitable for	Gluten-free	Contains egg and nuts

Expanded Conclusion

These Cinnamon Sugar Candied Pecans are an easy, crowd-pleasing snack that’s perfect for any occasion. Sweet, crunchy, and full of warm cinnamon flavor, they’re ideal for holiday gifting, topping desserts, or enjoying straight from the jar.

With minimal ingredients, simple steps, and a touch of oven magic, these candied pecans are a dessert table essential. They’re versatile, long-lasting, and absolutely addictive. Make a batch today, and you’ll quickly see why these sweet little nuts are a favorite treat year-round.

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