Looking for holiday party food and snack ideas? Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans are a delightful treat that everyone will love. These sweet, crunchy pecans are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a festive gathering or a cozy night in. Their irresistible flavor and simple preparation make them a standout choice for your snacking needs.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: You only need a few pantry staples to whip up these delicious pecans.
- Quick Preparation: With minimal hands-on time, you can have these ready in no time.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or just a casual get-together.
- Versatile Snack: Enjoy them on their own or as a topping for salads and desserts.
- Great Gift Idea: Package them up for friends and family during the holidays.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making your Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or non-stick foil
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Ziploc bag
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Ensures even baking and easy handling of the pecans.
- Parchment paper or non-stick foil: Prevents sticking, allowing for easy cleanup.
- Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to mix ingredients without spills.
Ingredients
For the Pecans
- 1 pound pecans (and/or almonds)
For the Sweet Coating
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
For Binding
- 1 egg white
For Flavoring
- 1/2 tsp salt (or your preference)
For Mixing
- 2 tsp water
How to Make Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 250° F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or non-stick foil to prepare for baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Sugar Mixture
In a large Ziploc bag, mix together:
1. 1 cup sugar
2. 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
3. 1/2 tsp salt
Seal the bag and shake well to combine all ingredients.
Step 3: Whisk the Egg White Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together until frothy:
1. 1 egg white
2. 2 tsp water
3. 2 tsp vanilla extract
Step 4: Coat the Nuts
Add the pecans (or almonds) into the egg white mixture:
– Stir until they are well coated with the mixture.
Step 5: Mix with Sugar Coating
Pour the coated nuts into the Ziploc bag:
– Seal it and shake until they are thoroughly coated with the sugar mixture.
Step 6: Bake the Pecans
Spread the pecan mixture evenly on your prepared baking sheet:
– Ensure they are in a single layer for even baking.
– Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure uniform crispiness.
Step 7: Enjoy Responsibly!
Once baked, let them cool slightly before serving:
– Try not to eat them all in one sitting!
How to Serve Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
These Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans are perfect for any gathering. Their sweet and crunchy texture makes them a favorite among guests. Here are some delightful ways to serve them!
As a Snack
- Enjoy these pecans straight from the bowl for a quick and satisfying snack.
On Salads
- Add a handful of these pecans to your salad for a sweet crunch that complements greens beautifully.
In Gift Bags
- Package them in small bags as homemade gifts during the holidays. They make great party favors!
With Cheese
- Serve alongside a cheese platter. The sweetness pairs wonderfully with sharp cheeses like cheddar.
On Desserts
- Sprinkle them over ice cream or yogurt for an added layer of flavor and texture.
In Trail Mix
- Mix with dried fruits and other nuts for a delicious homemade trail mix that’s perfect for on-the-go snacking.
How to Perfect Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
To achieve the best results with your Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans, keep these tips in mind:
- Use fresh ingredients – Ensure your pecans, sugar, and spices are fresh to enhance flavor.
- Don’t skip the egg white – This helps the cinnamon sugar stick better to the nuts.
- Stir regularly – Stirring every 15 minutes during baking ensures even coating and prevents burning.
- Let them cool completely – Allowing them to cool on the baking sheet helps them crisp up nicely.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
Pairing side dishes with Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:
Roasted Brussels Sprouts – These savory sprouts provide a wonderful contrast to the sweetness of the pecans.
Creamy Coleslaw – A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and balances the flavors perfectly.
Butternut Squash Soup – Serve warm soup with a sprinkle of pecans on top for added texture.
Cheese Platter – Include assorted cheeses that complement the sweetness of the pecans for an elegant touch.
Stuffed Sweet Potatoes – The sweetness of sweet potatoes pairs well with cinnamon flavors.
Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad with veggies makes a nutritious pairing that won’t overpower the pecan’s taste.
Fruit Salad – Fresh fruits enhance the flavor profile while providing a healthy side option.
Charcuterie Board – Include these pecans as part of your board for an extra layer of crunch and sweetness!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans can be a breeze, but there are a few common mistakes that could ruin your batch. Here’s how to avoid them.
- Skipping Egg White: Not using egg white results in uneven coating. Make sure to whisk it until frothy for a great texture.
- Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to burnt or soggy pecans. Always preheat to 250°F for perfect results.
- Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: If pecans overlap, they won’t crisp up properly. Spread them out in a single layer for even baking.
- Not Stirring Regularly: Failing to stir every 15 minutes can cause uneven cooking. Keep an eye on them for consistent crunchiness.
- Ignoring Cooling Time: Eating them right out of the oven can burn your mouth! Let them cool completely for the best flavor and texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 2 weeks in the fridge.
Freezing Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
- Place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
- Oven: Preheat to 300°F and bake for about 5-10 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 10-15 seconds, watching carefully.
- Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently.
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. Feel free to mix and match based on your preference.
How can I make these pecans spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or nutmeg to the sugar mixture for an extra kick!
Are Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans gluten-free?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a safe snack for those with gluten sensitivities.
How do I make these pecans vegan?
You can replace the egg white with aquafaba (chickpea water) as an egg substitute for binding.
Final Thoughts
These Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet snack anytime, you can customize them with different nuts or spices. Try making your own batch today and enjoy this delightful treat!
Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
Try these Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pecans that are perfect for any occasion! Crunchy, sweet, and easy-to-make—your guests will love them!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 pound pecans (or almonds)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 egg white
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 250°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large Ziploc bag, mix together sugar, cinnamon, and salt; seal and shake well.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk egg white, water, and vanilla until frothy.
- Add nuts to the egg mixture, stirring to coat.
- Transfer nuts to the Ziploc bag; seal and shake until thoroughly coated.
- Spread nuts evenly on the prepared baking sheet; bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ¼ cup (30g)
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
