Crunchy Cinnamon Pecans
Crunchy cinnamon pecans offer a sweet, spiced crunch perfect for snacking or garnishing desserts, ideal for those who love warm, toasted nut flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a microwave oven on High for 25 seconds.
- Remove butter from microwave and mix in light brown sugar, white sugar, and ground cinnamon.
- Add the pecans and toss until well coated.
- Spread pecans on an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Bake in a preheated 250°F oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove from oven and let cool on wax paper.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nuttier flavor, toast the pecans in a dry skillet for a few minutes before adding them to the butter mixture. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix. You can substitute walnuts or almonds if you don't have pecans on hand. Adjust the sweetness by using less sugar or a sugar substitute for a healthier version.
Serving Suggestions
These crunchy cinnamon pecans make a delightful snack on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a cheese platter or can be sprinkled over salads for added texture. Consider serving them alongside a bowl of yogurt or as a topping for desserts like the Ultimate Chocolate Chip Cookie. They can also be a great addition to holiday gift baskets.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover crunchy cinnamon pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you want to keep them fresh longer, consider refrigerating them, but let them come to room temperature before serving to regain their crunch. Reheat in a warm oven for a few minutes if needed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crunchy Cinnamon Pecans contains roughly 1231 calories, with 1g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 128g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted?
Yes, you can use unsalted butter for this recipe. Just keep in mind that you may want to adjust the amount of added salt if you prefer a savory flavor. Unsalted butter lets you control the overall saltiness of the dish.
What can I do if my pecans are not evenly coated?
If your pecans aren't evenly coated, you can return them to a mixing bowl and add a little more melted butter, then toss them again. Ensure they are well coated before spreading them out on the cookie sheet for baking.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can make these crunchy cinnamon pecans a few days in advance. Just store them in an airtight container once they have cooled completely. They will maintain their crunchiness, making them perfect for snacking or entertaining.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).