Name: Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups raw pecan halves; 1/2 cup granulated sugar (or brown sugar); 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons melted butter (or coconut oil)

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Are you looking for a delightful snack that combines sweetness with a hint of spice? Look no further than these cinnamon sugar pecans! This simple yet delicious treat is perfect for satisfying those mid-afternoon cravings or impressing your guests during gatherings. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch that will leave everyone wanting more. The warm flavors of cinnamon paired with the rich nuttiness of pecans create an irresistible combination. Whether you’re enjoying them on their own, adding them to salads, or using them as a topping for desserts, these cinnamon sugar pecans are versatile and sure to please. Plus, they make a fantastic homemade gift for friends and family. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This cinnamon sugar pecans

Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners

Ingredients for cinnamon sugar pecans

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Pecans: About 2 cups of raw pecan halves provide the base for this tasty treat; choose fresh nuts for the best flavor.
Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness; you can also use brown sugar for a deeper flavor profile.
Cinnamon: A classic spice that enhances the flavor; adjust the amount based on your preference.
Salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and brings out the flavors in the mixture.
Butter: Melted butter helps bind the ingredients together while adding richness; feel free to substitute with coconut oil if preferred.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make cinnamon sugar pecans

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Pecans

In a large mixing bowl, combine the raw pecan halves with melted butter. Stir well until all nuts are coated evenly.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt. Ensure there are no lumps in your mixture.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Pour the dry mixture over the buttered pecans. Toss everything together until all nuts are evenly coated in the sweet cinnamon blend.

Step 5: Spread on Baking Sheet

Transfer the coated pecans onto the prepared baking sheet in an even layer to promote even roasting.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Stir halfway through baking to ensure even cooking.

Transfer to plates and let cool before serving for the perfect finishing touch.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Watch Them Closely: Keep an eye on the pecans while they bake; they can go from perfectly toasted to burnt quickly.
Customize Flavors: Feel free to experiment with other spices like nutmeg or vanilla extract to create unique flavors.
Storage Tips: Store leftover candied pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.

How to Serve cinnamon sugar pecans

This cinnamon sugar pecans is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.

Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

Make Ahead: You can prepare the cinnamon sugar pecans in advance. Simply roast them and let them cool completely before storing. They can be made up to two days ahead of serving.
Storing: Store leftover cinnamon sugar pecans in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for about one week. For longer storage, consider using a freezer-safe container.
Reheating: To reheat, spread the pecans on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes. This method helps maintain their crunchiness.

Suggestions for cinnamon sugar pecans

Use Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients is essential for making delicious cinnamon sugar pecans. Stale nuts can lead to a lackluster flavor and crunch. Always check the expiration dates on your nuts before use. When possible, choose raw pecans that you can toast yourself, as this enhances their natural flavor. Opt for high-quality cinnamon as well, as its freshness impacts the overall taste of your mixture. If you’re unsure about the freshness of your ingredients, consider buying them from a store with high turnover rates to ensure quality.

Control Your Baking Temperature

Baking temperature plays a crucial role in achieving perfectly roasted cinnamon sugar pecans. If the oven temperature is too high, the pecans may burn before they reach that golden brown color. Conversely, baking at too low a temperature can result in an uneven roast and chewy texture instead of that desired crunch. Aim for a moderate temperature around 350°F (175°C) and keep an eye on them during baking. Stirring every few minutes will help ensure even roasting and prevent any unwanted burning.

Don’t Overdo the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

While it may be tempting to load on the cinnamon sugar coating, moderation is key. An excessive amount can make your cinnamon sugar pecans overly sweet or cloying. Instead, aim for a balanced coating that enhances the natural nuttiness without overpowering it. Mix your spice blend thoroughly to ensure every pecan gets an even layer of flavor without drowning in sugar. A light touch will create a delightful snack that showcases both sweetness and nuttiness.

Allow Proper Cooling Time

Cooling time is often overlooked but vital for achieving the perfect texture in cinnamon sugar pecans. Once you remove them from the oven, resist the urge to eat them right away; they need time to crisp up. Place them on parchment paper or a wire rack to cool completely. This process helps absorb any excess moisture and allows the coating to harden appropriately. If you don’t allow adequate cooling time, you may end up with sticky or soft pecans that lack that satisfying crunch.

FAQs

What are cinnamon sugar pecans typically used for?

Cinnamon sugar pecans are versatile and can enhance various dishes and snacks. You might enjoy them as a standalone treat or use them as toppings for salads, oatmeal, or desserts like ice cream sundaes and pies. Their sweet and nutty flavor complements both savory and sweet dishes beautifully, adding texture and richness. They also make excellent gifts when packaged nicely or great additions to holiday festivities as part of snack platters.

Can I substitute other nuts in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute other nuts if you prefer or if pecans are not available. Almonds, walnuts, or cashews work well with the same cinnamon sugar blend. Each nut has its unique flavor profile but will complement the sweetness of cinnamon effectively. Just keep in mind that different nuts may have varying roasting times, so adjust accordingly to achieve that perfect crunch while avoiding burning or undercooking.

How should I store leftover cinnamon sugar pecans?

To keep your leftover cinnamon sugar pecans fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature if you plan to eat them within a week or two. For longer storage, consider placing them in the refrigerator or freezer where they can last for several months without losing their flavor or texture. Be sure to let them come back to room temperature before enjoying again so they regain their crunchy goodness!

Can I make these cinnamon sugar pecans vegan?

Absolutely! The traditional recipe for cinnamon sugar pecans is already vegan-friendly since it doesn’t contain animal products like dairy or eggs. The ingredients include only nuts, sugar, and spices which are all plant-based. However, do check any additional ingredients like butter in alternative recipes—if present—replace it with coconut oil or another plant-based oil to maintain a vegan approach while still enjoying this delightful snack.

Conclusion for cinnamon sugar pecans

In summary, creating delicious cinnamon sugar pecans involves careful attention to detail throughout each step of the process—from selecting fresh ingredients to controlling baking temperatures effectively. Avoid common mistakes such as overloading on the coating and neglecting cooling times; these can significantly affect your final product’s taste and texture. Remember to explore versatility by using different nuts as substitutes or finding creative ways to incorporate these sweet treats into various dishes! With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to mastering timeless cinnamon sugar pecans that everyone will love.