Crunchy, sweet, and irresistibly aromatic, sugar-coated pecans are the kind of snack that instantly makes any day feel special. With their glossy caramelized coating and toasty flavor, they strike that perfect balance between sweet and nutty, making them impossible to stop eating after just one handful. Whether you serve them as a holiday treat, sprinkle them over salads, or package them as homemade gifts, these pecans never fail to impress.
The magic begins when pecans are tossed in a simple mixture of sugar, cinnamon, and a touch of salt – just enough to enhance their natural richness. As they bake, the sugar melts and crystallizes around each nut, creating a crisp, sweet shell that shatters delicately with every bite. The scent that fills the kitchen is unmistakable: warm, cozy, and full of cinnamon-spice goodness. Once cooled, the pecans take on a satisfying crunch, with a deep caramel flavor that perfectly complements their buttery texture.
One of the best things about sugar-coated pecans is their versatility. They’re perfect for snacking straight from the jar, but they also elevate everything they touch. Toss them into a fresh green salad for a sweet-and-savory twist, use them to top pancakes or oatmeal, or scatter them over chocolate ice cream or cheesecake for extra crunch. They also make thoughtful edible gifts during the holidays, simple to make, beautiful to package, and always a hit.
Beyond their delicious taste, there’s something nostalgic about sugar-coated pecans. They bring back memories of festive markets and cozy winter evenings, where the air smells of roasted nuts and cinnamon. A batch of these pecans captures that same warmth and cheer right at home. Crisp, golden, and perfectly spiced, they’re the ultimate small indulgence, a reminder that sometimes the simplest recipes are the most satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pecan halves raw
- 1 cup granulated sugar white
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon ground
- 1 tablespoon water
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir in water until the mixture is smooth.
- Add pecans to the saucepan and stir until they are well coated with the sugar mixture.
- Spread the pecans evenly onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, until the pecans are golden and crispy.
- Allow pecans to cool completely before serving or storing.
Nutrition
I don’t really like pecans. I used almonds instead. Still good, tho. Kinda sweet. 3 stars.
I ain’t a fan of cooking, but this was so easy even I could do it! Pecan go crunch crunch!
These pecans are super yummy! I couldn’t stop eating them! Definitely a 5 from me!
I burned my pecans. How do y’all cook without burning things? Save me!
Lol, I thought this was gonna be hard but it was way easier than I thought. Just mix stuff and bake!
I followed the recipe exactly but my pecans turned out sticky. What did I do wrong? 🙁
I think you put too much water in, that can make them sticky. Just a tablespoon is enough! Next time, try less.
Maybe you didn’t bake them long enough? The cooling part is important! Don’t lose hope, it’s a tricky recipe sometimes!
Recipe was okay but next time I might try with honey instead of sugar. Sounds healthier!
Nice and sweet! I gave them to my kids and they loved it, but I think I should have added more cinnamon.
More cinnamon? That might make it too spicy! I think they sound perfect as is. 🤔
I’m glad your kids loved them! Cinnamon does add a nice kick, maybe next time try doubling it? 😄