Description
These crispy sugar coated pecans are an easy homemade snack with an irresistible crunch and sweet-spiced flavor. Perfect for parties, gifting, or cozy nights in, they deliver comfort and nostalgia in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (about 4 cups) raw pecan halves
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1–2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large egg whites, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (optional)
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (optional, swap for half the granulated sugar)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Measure out 1 lb pecan halves and check for shells or broken bits.
- In a medium mixing bowl, beat 2 large egg whites until frothy but not stiff (about 1-2 minutes).
- Stir in vanilla extract if using.
- Add pecans to the egg whites and gently stir until evenly coated.
- In a separate bowl, combine sugar, cinnamon, salt, and any optional spices. Mix well.
- Sprinkle the sugar-spice mixture over the pecans and gently fold until all nuts are coated.
- Spread pecans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes for even coating.
- Check for doneness: pecans should be dry, crackly, and golden brown. If sticky, bake 5 minutes longer.
- Cool completely on the baking sheet; the coating will crisp up as they cool.
- Serve or store in an airtight container once cooled.
Notes
- Adjust sugar and spices to your taste.
- Store in an airtight container for freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 oz
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Crispy Sugar Coated Pecans, homemade snack, party snack, sweet pecans