Name: Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Pecans
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 2 cups pecan halves; 1 large egg white (can substitute with aquafaba for a vegan option); 1/2 cup brown sugar (can substitute with maple sugar); 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; a pinch salt

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When it comes to the delightful aroma of cinnamon wafting through your kitchen, few things can compare to the experience of making Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Pecans. These crispy, sweet, and slightly salty treats are perfect for snacking on during movie nights, adding a gourmet touch to your holiday gatherings, or gifting in decorative jars. I remember the first time I made them; the warm smell filled the house, and I couldn’t help but sneak a handful before they even cooled! With just a few simple ingredients and a low oven temperature, you’ll transform ordinary pecans into something extraordinary.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

Why should you try making Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Pecans at home? For starters, they’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a wonderful snack to keep on hand, a unique party favor, or a stunning addition to your cheese board, this dish fits the bill. Plus, it’s budget-friendly; the ingredients are affordable, and the result is something that tastes gourmet.

"These pecans are a game changer! I made them for a family get-together, and they vanished in minutes. The cinnamon and sugar combination is just perfect." – Happy Home Cook

Step-by-Step Overview

Creating the perfect batch of Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Pecans is straightforward and fuss-free. Here’s a quick rundown of how it all comes together:

Prep the oven and mix dry ingredients: Begin by getting your oven ready and blending the sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
Whip the egg white: This step helps the pecans stick to the sugary mixture.
Coat the pecans: Toss the pecans in the egg white mixture, ensuring every piece is well covered.
Bake and cool: A slow roast allows the flavors to develop while keeping the nuts crunchy.

Let’s dive into what you’ll need!

What You’ll Need

Gather these items to make your Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Pecans:

2 Cups pecan halves
1 Egg white
1/2 Cup brown sugar
1 Tablespoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 Teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt

For a bit of flavor diversity, consider swapping the pecans for walnuts or adding a sprinkle of nutmeg to the sugar mix!

Directions to Follow

Cinnamon sugar roasted pecans in a bowl, perfect for snacking or adding to recipes.

Here’s how to prepare your Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Pecans in easy steps:

Preheat your oven: Set it to 225°F (107°C).
Mix sugar and spices: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Set it aside.
Whisk egg white and vanilla: In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg white and vanilla extract until it becomes foamy, which should take about 2 minutes.
Coat the pecans: Add the pecan halves to the foamy mixture, mixing until they’re evenly coated.
Add the sugar mixture: Gradually add the sugar and cinnamon mix, ensuring every pecan is covered well.
Transfer to a baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the pecan mixture in a single layer.
Bake: Place in the oven for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes to maintain an even bake and redistributing into a single layer.
Cool and store: After baking, let them cool completely for 30-40 minutes before transferring to an airtight container.

Enjoy every delicious bite!

Best Ways to Enjoy It

These Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Pecans are incredibly versatile. They make an exceptional snack on their own, but consider adding them to salads for a delightful crunch or using them as a topping on vanilla ice cream for a sweet treat. For a festive touch, toss them into your holiday baked goods or sprinkle them over yogurt for breakfast. They also make fantastic gifts when packaged beautifully in jars.

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

To ensure your pecans maintain their crunch and flavor, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for about two weeks. If you want to prolong their shelf life, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just remember to thaw them completely at room temperature before enjoying!

Helpful Cooking Tips

To enhance your Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Pecans, try these pro tips:

Don’t rush the baking: Low and slow is the key. The pecans need time to fully roast and caramelize without burning.
Experiment with spices: Adding a bit of cayenne pepper or cardamom can provide a surprising kick that elevates the flavor profile.
Use different nuts: While pecans are delicious, walnuts or almonds can also work well, providing their unique flavors.

Flavor Swaps

Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun variations to try with your Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Pecans:

Maple Sugar Pecan: Replace brown sugar with maple sugar for a truly original touch.
Chocolate Drizzled: Once cooled, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the pecans for an indulgent treat.
Savory option: Skip the sugar and cinnamon entirely and coat with olive oil and sea salt for a savory nut mix.

Your Questions Answered

What is the prep time for this recipe?

Preparation should take about 10-15 minutes, making it a quick endeavor!

Can I substitute the egg white for a vegan option?

Yes! You can use aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas) as a substitute for egg white.

How long do these pecans last?

When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, they can last about two weeks, and up to three months in the freezer.

Making Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Pecans is not just about the recipe; it’s about the joy of indulging in a sweet, crunchy snack that blends warmth and comfort. So gather your ingredients and embark on this delightful culinary adventure!