If your home smells like cinnamon and roasted nuts during the holidays, you know you’re doing something right. These Sugar Coated Pecans are my go-to for when I want something quick, festive, and totally irresistible. They’re crisp, sweet, and lightly spiced perfect as a snack or as part of your Appetizers For Christmas Eve spread.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It only takes a few simple ingredients and less than 10 minutes to prepare.
- Perfect make-ahead snack or thoughtful edible gift.
- The aroma alone will make your kitchen smell like Christmas morning.
- Pairs perfectly with hot cocoa, coffee, or alongside other Christmas Eve hors d’oeuvres.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Pecans: Whole halves work best for even coating and crunch.
- Egg white: Helps the sugar and spices cling beautifully to the nuts.
- Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and creates that classic crackly shell.
- Brown sugar: Gives depth and a hint of caramel flavor.
- Cinnamon: Brings the warmth that makes this feel like the holidays.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a cozy undertone that rounds out the sweetness.
- Salt: Balances the sugar for that perfect sweet-salty bite.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 300°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
Step 2
In a large bowl, whisk together the egg white and vanilla until frothy. This is what helps everything stick to the pecans later.
Step 3
In another bowl, mix the sugars, cinnamon, and salt. The combination gives that perfect caramelized texture once baked.
Step 4
Add the pecans to the egg white mixture and stir until every piece is shiny and coated. Then pour in the sugar mixture and toss until fully covered.
Step 5
Spread the coated pecans evenly on your prepared baking sheet. Bake for 40 minutes, stirring halfway through so they bake evenly and don’t clump.
Step 6
Once golden and fragrant, remove from the oven and let them cool completely. They’ll crisp up as they cool try not to eat them all right away!
Helpful Tips & Variations
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or cayenne for an extra flavor kick.
- Swap half the pecans for almonds or cashews for a mixed nut version.
- Store them in a glass jar with a ribbon for an easy homemade gift.
- Serve as part of your Christmas Eve Appetizer Ideas or with festive Xmas Dips for a fun twist.
Serving & Storage
These Sugar Coated Pecans are wonderful on a holiday cheese board, sprinkled over a salad, or as part of your Appetizer For Christmas lineup. They also make a cozy snack for a Christmas Hor Dourves spread perfect with mulled wine or spiced cider.
Sugar Coated Pecans (Perfect for Christmas Appetizers)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the egg white and vanilla extract until frothy.
- In a separate bowl, mix granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
- Add pecans to the egg white mixture and stir to coat. Then, mix in the sugar mixture until pecans are evenly coated.
- Spread coated pecans evenly on the baking sheet. Bake for 40 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely. The pecans will crisp as they cool.
Notes
- For variations, try adding nutmeg or cayenne for a twist.
- Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks, or freeze for three months.
- Reheat briefly in the oven to re-crisp if needed.
To store, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If they lose their crunch, just pop them in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes to re-crisp. You can also freeze them for up to three months.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely. Almonds or walnuts also work beautifully with this coating. The texture will vary slightly, but they’re all perfect for Apps For Christmas Eve or a Christmas Eve Luncheon platter.
Why are my sugar coated pecans sticky?
They might have baked too short or not cooled fully. Make sure to spread them in a single layer and let them cool completely for that crisp candy shell you want in a Christmas Eve Appetizer.
How can I make these pecans less sweet?
You can reduce the sugar by a few tablespoons or add a touch more salt. They’ll still be delicious and pair nicely with savory Christmas Eve Hors D’oeuvres.
Can I prepare these in advance for a holiday party?
Yes, they’re an excellent make-ahead snack. Store in a sealed jar and serve with your favorite Christmas Eve Appetizer Ideas or alongside Xmas Dips for easy entertaining.
What can I serve these with?
These pecans pair perfectly with Christmas Salmon, Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread, or Grinch Fruit Sticks for a full spread of sweet and savory Christmas Hor Dourves.
Final Thoughts from Ama
There’s something comforting about a bowl of warm, sugar coated pecans sitting on the counter while the snow (or sea mist, in my case) drifts outside. They’re simple, nostalgic, and full of that holiday spirit we all crave. Whether you’re making them for a party or just to snack on while wrapping gifts, I hope they bring warmth and joy to your kitchen. Remember, food doesn’t have to be complicated it just has to be made with heart.
Simple food, big heart.