Looking for holiday party food and snack ideas? Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans are the perfect treat! These sweet, crunchy snacks are simple to make and great for any occasion—from Christmas gatherings to Thanksgiving feasts. Their irresistible flavor and delightful crunch make them a must-have for your snack table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes minimal time to prepare, making it perfect for busy holiday seasons.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and sugar creates a warm, comforting taste that everyone will adore.
- Versatile Use: These pecans can be served as snacks, toppings for desserts, or even holiday gifts!
- Crowd-Pleaser: With their delightful crunch and sweetness, they are sure to impress guests at any gathering.
- Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to substitute almonds or adjust the spices to suit your taste preferences.
Tools and Preparation
To make these Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your preparation process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or non-stick foil
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Ziploc bag
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Provides a stable surface for even baking and easy access when stirring the pecans.
- Parchment paper or non-stick foil: Ensures that your pecans do not stick, making cleanup a breeze.
- Large mixing bowl: Allows ample space for whisking ingredients thoroughly without spills.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up your own batch of 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. While it’s heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or non-stick foil.
Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
In a large Ziploc bag, combine:
1. 1 cup sugar
2. 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
3. 1/2 tsp salt (or your preference)
Seal the bag and shake it gently until well mixed.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together:
1. 1 egg white
2. 2 tsp vanilla extract
3. 2 tsp water
Whisk until frothy.
Step 4: Coat the Nuts
Add your pound of pecans (or almonds) into the egg white mixture. Stir until all nuts are evenly coated.
Step 5: Combine with Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
Pour the coated nuts into the Ziploc bag with the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Seal it tight and shake until all nuts are covered evenly.
Step 6: Bake the Pecans
Spread the coated pecans out on your prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake them in the preheated oven for one hour, stirring every fifteen minutes to ensure even cooking.
Step 7: Enjoy!
Once they’re finished baking, let them cool slightly before enjoying. Try not to eat them all in one sitting!
How to Serve Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
These Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply enjoying a cozy night at home, these sweet and crunchy pecans can elevate any occasion.
As a Snack
- Perfect for munching on during movie nights or game days.
- Keep them in a decorative bowl for easy access.
In Salads
- Toss them into your favorite green salad for added crunch and flavor.
- Pair them with mixed greens, cranberries, and feta cheese for a festive touch.
On Charcuterie Boards
- Include them on a charcuterie board alongside cheeses and fruits.
- Their sweet taste complements savory meats beautifully.
As Party Favors
- Package them in small jars or bags as thoughtful party favors for guests.
- Add a festive label for a personal touch.
With Ice Cream
- Sprinkle over vanilla or chocolate ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce to enhance the sweetness.
How to Perfect Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
To ensure your Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips. They will guide you to achieve that ideal crunchy texture and delightful flavor.
- Use fresh nuts: Ensure your pecans are fresh for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust sweetness: Feel free to reduce the sugar if you prefer a less sweet option.
- Stir regularly: Stir the nuts every 15 minutes while baking for even coating and cooking.
- Cool completely: Allow the pecans to cool fully before storing to maintain their crunchiness.
- Store properly: Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature to preserve freshness.
- Experiment with spices: Try adding nutmeg or ginger for an extra flavor twist.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans can be paired with many delicious side dishes. These options complement their sweet and crunchy texture, making your meal even more enjoyable.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of Brussels sprouts balances the sweetness of the pecans.
- Sweet Potato Mash: Creamy sweet potatoes provide a comforting contrast to the crunchy nuts.
- Apple Salad: A fresh apple salad with greens enhances the pecans’ flavors beautifully.
- Cheese Platter: Pairing with assorted cheeses creates an excellent balance of sweet and savory.
- Quinoa Salad: The nutty flavor of quinoa works well with the sweetness of your cinnamon sugar pecans.
- Caramelized Carrots: Sweet caramelized carrots echo the flavors of your pecans, creating harmony on the plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans can be a delightful experience, but certain common mistakes can hinder your results.
- Skipping the Egg White: Not using egg white can lead to uneven coating. Ensure you whisk it until frothy for perfect adhesion.
- Not Stirring Enough: If you don’t stir the pecans every 15 minutes, they may cook unevenly. Set a timer to keep on track.
- Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: Placing too many nuts on the sheet can cause steaming. Spread them in a single layer for optimal crunchiness.
- Using Too Much Salt: Adding excess salt can overpower the sweetness. Stick to the suggested amount or adjust to your taste preference.
- Rushing Cooling Time: Eating them right out of the oven might burn your tongue. Allow them to cool completely for the best flavor and texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to two weeks.
Freezing Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
- Use freezer-safe bags or containers.
- They can be frozen for up to three months.
Reheating Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for 5-10 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 15-20 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans.
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, almonds or walnuts work well too! Adjust roasting times for different nuts as they may vary.
How long do Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans last?
When stored properly, they last up to two weeks in the refrigerator and three months in the freezer.
Are Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans gluten-free?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for everyone.
Can I adjust the sweetness of Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans?
Certainly! You can reduce sugar slightly or add more cinnamon if you prefer a spicier flavor profile.
Final Thoughts
These Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile! Perfect as holiday snacks or party treats, they are bound to impress your guests. Feel free to customize with different nuts or spices according to your taste!
Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
Looking for a delightful treat to spice up your holiday gatherings? Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans are the perfect combination of sweet and crunchy, making them an irresistible addition to your snack table. These delectable nuts are quick to prepare and versatile enough to serve as snacks, toppings, or even thoughtful gifts. With a warm blend of cinnamon and sugar, this recipe is sure to please everyone at your next Christmas party or Thanksgiving feast. Whether enjoyed on their own or paired with savory dishes, these pecans will elevate any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: About 16 servings
- 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 sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Seal and shake until combined.
- In a bowl, whisk together the egg white, vanilla extract, and water until frothy.
- Add the nuts to the egg mixture, stirring until evenly coated.
- Transfer the coated nuts to the Ziploc bag with the cinnamon-sugar mixture and shake until fully covered.
- Spread the nuts on the baking sheet in a single layer and bake for one hour, stirring every 15 minutes for even cooking.
- Allow them to cool before enjoying.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
