Cinnamon Sugar Pecans (Candied & Crunchy)

Name: Homemade Chili: The Ultimate Comfort Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 6–8 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 1 green bell pepper, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes; 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat); 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity); ½ cup beef broth or water

Sarah Smith
4 days ago
2 min read

Updated: 13 hours ago

Sugared pecans piled on a wooden board, surrounded by cinnamon sticks and star anise. A spoon with sugar is nearby, creating a cozy vibe.

These Cinnamon Sugar Pecans are crunchy, sweet, and taste like the holidays in a bowl. They’re perfect for gifting, snacking, topping salads, or sprinkling over desserts. Just like my Gingerbread Truffles, they bring that nostalgic holiday warmth that fills your whole house. Warning: they’re impossible to stop eating once you start!

Recipe Card

Prep Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 45 minutes Total Time: 50 minutes Servings: 8

Ingredients

1 pound pecans
1 egg white
1 tablespoon water
1 cup sugar
1 tablespoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven

300°F. Line a baking sheet.

2. Coat pecans

Whisk egg white + water until frothy. Toss pecans to coat.

3. Add cinnamon sugar

Mix sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Coat pecans fully.

4. Bake

Spread on a tray. Bake 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes.

5. Cool

Let cool completely for crunch.

Conclusion

Once these Cinnamon Sugar Pecans cool and turn crunchy, they become an irresistible snack you’ll want to keep around all season. Sprinkle them over oatmeal, salads, or desserts—or pair them with Gingerbread Cake or Pumpkin Spice Bread for an easy, delicious holiday spread. They also make a perfect little homemade gift!

Cinnamon Sugar Pecans – FAQ

Q: What type of pecans work best for cinnamon sugar pecans?

A: Raw, unsalted pecan halves work best. They toast evenly and hold onto the cinnamon-sugar coating beautifully without becoming too hard.

Q: Why are my pecans sticky after baking?

A: They may need a few more minutes in the oven. As they cool, they should develop a crisp, candy-like shell. If still sticky, return them to the oven for 3–5 minutes.

Q: How do I make sure the sugar mixture sticks to the pecans?

A: The egg white coating is essential! Whisk it until frothy — not stiff peaks — so the cinnamon sugar adheres evenly during baking.

Q: Can I make these pecans without egg whites?

A: Yes. You can use a small splash of maple syrup, honey, or even a bit of melted butter to help the coating stick, though the texture will be slightly different.

Q: How long do cinnamon sugar pecans stay fresh?

A: Store them in an airtight container for 2–3 weeks at room temperature. They freeze well for up to 2 months.

Q: Can I make these ahead for the holidays?

A: Absolutely! These pecans stay crispy and flavorful for days, making them perfect for gifting, parties, and snack boards.

Q: Can I adjust the sweetness or spice level?

A: Yes. Reduce the sugar for a lightly sweet version, add extra cinnamon for warmth, or toss in a pinch of nutmeg, cloves, or cayenne for a cozy kick.

Q: Why did my pecans burn?

A: Oven temperature may be too high, or the nuts were left in too long. Bake at a moderate 250–300°F and stir halfway through to prevent burning.

Q: What can I serve cinnamon sugar pecans with?

A: Enjoy them as a snack, on salads, yogurt, oatmeal, charcuterie boards, holiday desserts, baked brie, or as a crunchy topping for sweet casseroles.

Q: Are these good for gifting?

A: Yes — they’re perfect for holiday gifts. Package them in mason jars, cellophane bags, or tins with a ribbon for a cozy, homemade treat.