Dive into making your own Cinnamon Sugar Pecans with this easy-to-follow oven-based recipe. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a thoughtful homemade gift, these caramelized pecans offer a delicious crunch wrapped in a sugar and cinnamon coating. Not only is this recipe quick to whip up, requiring just 10 minutes of prep time, but it also brings the comforting aroma of the holidays to your kitchen.
Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C) to start. Prepare your baking by lining a sheet with foil and lightly coating it with nonstick cooking spray. This ensures your pecans won't stick and are easy to remove.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients: 1 cup of white sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Stir these together until they're well mixed and set aside.
Using a mixer, beat 1 egg white and 1 tablespoon of water for about 2-3 minutes. You're aiming for a light and frothy texture, but it shouldn't reach stiff peaks. This egg wash is crucial for helping the sugar mixture stick to the pecans.
Add the 10 ounces of pecan halves to the egg wash. Stir them until each pecan is evenly coated, ensuring the perfect layer of sweetness in every bite.
Pour the sugar mixture over the coated pecans. Stir thoroughly, making sure each pecan is generously covered in the cinnamon-sugar mix for that irresistible flavor.
Spread the pecans onto your prepared baking sheet in a single layer to avoid clumping. This allows them to bake evenly, ensuring a crunchy texture.
Bake for 45-60 minutes, flipping the pecans every 15 minutes to ensure they're perfectly roasted. Keep an eye on them around the 40-45 minute mark, as ovens can vary, and you want them golden, not burnt.
Let the pecans cool completely before serving. This recipe makes approximately 2.5 cups of nuts in total.
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Notes
Can I use different nuts? Yes, this recipe is versatile. Almonds, walnuts, or cashews can also be used, but keep an eye on baking times as they may vary.
Can I adjust the sweetness or spice level? Absolutely! Feel free to tweak the amount of sugar or cinnamon based on your preference. Just remember to keep the proportions consistent for coating.