© Original recipe by The Spoon Studio ©
🍬✨ Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans for Snacks and Parties
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for a sweet, crunchy, and aromatic snack that can elevate any gathering, cinnamon sugar pecans are your answer. This homemade treat combines the natural richness of pecans with a fragrant cinnamon sugar coating, making them perfect for parties, gifting, or simply indulging yourself. With just a handful of ingredients and a quick preparation, you’ll craft irresistible cinnamon nuts that everyone will love.
2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare — ready in under 30 minutes.
- Perfect for making ahead of parties or gatherings.
- A versatile snack that pairs well with cheese boards, salads, or enjoyed solo.
- Home-cooked quality with a sweet, comforting aroma.
3. Ingredient Notes
For this cinnamon sugar pecans recipe, quality ingredients truly make a difference. Use fresh, high-quality pecans for that full, buttery flavor. You can find raw or roasted pecans; roasted pecans will give a richer flavor, but raw ones absorb the cinnamon sugar coating better. The cinnamon should be aromatic — ground cinnamon adds a warm, spicy aroma that fills your kitchen. For the sweetest results, opt for pure cane sugar or powdered sugar, which dissolves smoothly for a delicate coating.
For even better flavor, consider adding a pinch of sea salt or a dash of vanilla extract to enhance the sweetness and aroma. Experiment with different types of cinnamon, such as Ceylon or Saigon cinnamon, to discover your preferred taste profile.
4. Kitchen Tools You Need
To achieve perfectly coated cinnamon sugar pecans, high-quality kitchen tools are essential. We recommend this Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer from Amazon Basics for quick and even roasting, ensuring your pecans are crispy and fragrant. A good mixing bowl and a sturdy baking sheet are equally important — consider this T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set for versatile cooking ease. A silicone spatula helps evenly coat the pecans without breaking them, making your snack even more uniform and appealing.
5. How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
Step 1: Prepare the Coating
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) or prepare your air fryer if using one. In a mixing bowl, combine cinnamon, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Use fresh cinnamon for a vibrant aroma. Whisk until well blended. Arrange pecans in a single layer for even coating.
Step 2: Coat the Pecans
Add a touch of egg white or a light spray of oil to help the cinnamon sugar adhere better. Gently toss the pecans in the cinnamon-sugar mixture, ensuring each nut is evenly coated. The smell of cinnamon and sugar will fill your kitchen now!
Step 3: Roast or Air Fry
If roasting, spread the coated pecans on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast for 10-12 minutes, stirring once, until they turn golden and fragrant. For air frying, place in the basket and cook at 350°F for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through. Look for a toasted aroma and crispy texture.
Step 4: Cool and Serve
Let the pecans cool completely on a wire rack before serving. They will become crunchier as they cool, making them irresistible. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to a week.
6. Expert Tips for Success
- Use fresh cinnamon for a more vibrant aroma and flavor.
- Coat the pecans while warm for better adherence of the cinnamon sugar.
- Avoid overcrowding — cook in batches to ensure crispy, fragrant results.
- For a spiced variation, add a pinch of nutmeg or cayenne pepper for a subtle kick.
7. Variations & Substitutions
If you have dietary restrictions or prefer different flavors, consider these substitutions:
- Vegan: Use aquafaba (the liquid from chickpeas) instead of egg white.
- Lower sugar: Reduce sugar or replace with coconut sugar for a caramel-like flavor.
- Spice variation: Mix in ginger powder or cardamom for a unique twist.
8. Storage & Reheating
Store cinnamon sugar pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them crispy, avoid refrigerating, as moisture can make them lose their crunch. If they soften, reheat in the oven at 300°F for 5 minutes or briefly in an air fryer to restore their crunchiness.
9. FAQ
Can I make cinnamon sugar pecans in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Air frying offers quick, even roasting and produces exceptionally crispy cinnamon nuts in just about 8-10 minutes. Check the pecans frequently to prevent burning.
How can I ensure the cinnamon sugar sticks well to the pecans?
Lightly coating the pecans with egg white or a small amount of oil helps the cinnamon sugar adhere better and creates a deliciously crunchy coating after roasting.
Can I prepare this snack ahead of time?
Yes, store the cooled pecans in an airtight container for up to a week. Reheat in the oven or air fryer before serving for the freshest crunch and aroma.
Are cinnamon sugar pecans suitable for parties?
Definitely! They’re a crowd-pleasing, elegant snack that adds a cozy, aromatic touch to any gathering. Serve them in a pretty bowl or include them in a dessert platter for extra flair.
10. Conclusion
Creating your own cinnamon sugar pecans is both simple and rewarding. The combination of toasted pecans with fragrant cinnamon and sweet sugar creates an irresistible snack perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed alone or as part of a party platter, this homemade treat will quickly become a favorite. Give it a try today and impress your friends with these crunchy, aromatic cinnamon nuts!
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Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans for Snacks and Parties
Sweet and crunchy cinnamon sugar pecans are an addictive snack perfect for any occasion. They are easy to make at home with just a few simple ingredients, creating a warm, fragrant treat that’s ideal for gifting, parties, or everyday snacking.
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 2 cups
Ingredients
- 2 cups pecan halves
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, mix sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.
- Place pecans in a mixing bowl, drizzle with melted butter, and toss to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle cinnamon sugar mixture over pecans and toss until well coated.
- Spread pecans in an even layer on prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, stirring halfway through, until pecans are golden and fragrant.
- Allow to cool completely before serving or storing.
Notes
- Store pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of sea salt or cayenne pepper.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 180 Kcal
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg