The crisp rustle of fallen leaves underfoot, the soothing aroma of warm spices wafting through the air, and the cozy embrace of a favorite sweater – fall is a season filled with sensory delights. And, of course, it’s also the time for indulging in delicious treats that bring comfort and warmth to the heart. One such treat that captures the essence of autumn is Cinnamon Sugar Pecans.
Cinnamon sugar pecans are a delightful combination of sweet and nutty, with a hint of warm spice that epitomizes the essence of the season. Whether you’re serving these as a snack, a holiday treat, or an edible gift for a friend, they’re sure to be a hit. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the process of making these delectable Cinnamon Sugar Pecans, and also share some delightful variations and expert tips to take your pecans to the next level.
Ingredients
For Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For Pecans:
- 2 cups pecan halves
- 1 egg white
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will ensure that your pecans cook evenly and don’t stick to the pan.
Step 2: Whisk the Egg White
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk the egg white until it’s frothy. This frothing will create a light, delicate coating on your pecans, making them delightfully crispy.
Step 3: Add Vanilla Extract
Gently stir in the vanilla extract into the frothy egg white. The vanilla will add a subtle layer of flavor that perfectly complements the pecans.
Step 4: Coating Time
Add your pecans to the bowl with the egg white and vanilla mixture. Stir them gently, ensuring each pecan is evenly coated with the mixture.
Step 5: The Cinnamon Sugar Blend
In a separate bowl, combine the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. This blend of cinnamon and sugar is what gives the pecans their signature autumnal flavor.
Step 6: Roll and Coat
Now, take your egg white-coated pecans and roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture. Make sure each pecan is generously coated with the delightful blend.
Step 7: Baking
Spread the coated pecans in a single layer on the parchment-lined baking sheet. This will help them cook evenly. Pop the sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Make sure to give them a gentle stir every 15 minutes for even coating.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Once your cinnamon sugar pecans have a lovely golden hue, take them out of the oven and let them cool completely. This will allow them to get extra crispy. Once cooled, you can indulge in the sweet, nutty, and spiced goodness of your homemade Cinnamon Sugar Pecans.
Variations
1. Spiced Chocolate Pecans For a decadent twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to your cinnamon sugar coating. This will give your pecans a subtle heat that pairs beautifully with dark chocolate. After cooling, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the pecans and let it set. You’ll have a mouthwatering combination of sweet, spicy, and rich chocolate.
2. Maple Glazed Pecans Replace the granulated sugar with pure maple syrup in your cinnamon sugar mixture. The result? A luscious, caramelized coating that’ll make your pecans simply irresistible. Be sure to reduce the oven temperature to 275°F (135°C) to avoid burning the maple syrup.
Tips
- Freshness is Key: Always use fresh pecans for the best results. Stale or rancid pecans can ruin the entire batch.
- Storage: Keep your Cinnamon Sugar Pecans in an airtight container to maintain their crispiness. They can last for several weeks, but they are so delicious that they are likely to disappear much sooner.
- Gifts from the Heart: These pecans make for wonderful edible gifts. Package them in decorative jars or bags tied with a ribbon, and you’ll have a heartfelt present that embodies the warmth of the season.
- Experiment with Nuts: While this recipe highlights pecans, you can experiment with other nuts like almonds, walnuts, or cashews. Each variety will bring a unique flavor and texture to your creation.
In the world of homemade snacks, Cinnamon Sugar Pecans stand as a testament to the charm of autumn. With their delicate, crispy coating and the warmth of cinnamon and sugar, they’re the perfect treat for snacking, gifting, or simply indulging in a taste of the season. So, the next time you find yourself surrounded by the colors of fall, whip up a batch of these delectable pecans and savor the magic of the season one nut at a time. Your taste buds will thank you for it, and so will your friends when you share this delightful treat with them. Happy baking!
