If you could bottle the scent of fall, it would smell exactly like these Cinnamon Sugar Pecans baking in the oven. Sweet, nutty, and kissed with warm spice, these roasted pecans are the kind of snack that fills your home with the most comforting aroma — part holiday magic, part cozy afternoon treat.
There’s something magical about the combination of cinnamon and sugar — especially when it coats warm, toasted pecans. This recipe takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish, requires no fancy equipment, and delivers that perfect balance of sweetness and crunch. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and vegetarian, making it a crowd-pleaser for gatherings and gifts.
Whether you snack on them straight from the tray, sprinkle them over oatmeal, or package them up in pretty jars for holiday gifting, these cinnamon sugar pecans will disappear faster than you can make them.
What are cinnamon sugar pecans?
Cinnamon Sugar Pecans are roasted pecans coated in a sweet, spiced glaze that gives them a beautiful crunch and warm flavor. The combination of sugar, cinnamon, and roasted nuts creates a snack that’s both indulgent and comforting — perfect for the fall and winter months.
You’ve probably seen these at fairs, holiday markets, or gift shops — that unmistakable aroma of caramelized cinnamon wafting through the air is hard to resist! The good news? You can easily make them at home with just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps.
Unlike traditional candied pecans that use egg whites or corn syrup, this version keeps things extra simple with just sugar, water, pecans, and a generous dusting of cinnamon sugar. The result is a light, crisp coating that enhances the natural richness of the pecans without being overly sweet.
Cinnamon Sugar Pecans Ingredients
You’ll only need four simple ingredients:
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1/4 cup sugar
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1/4 cup water
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2 cups pecans
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A generous amount of cinnamon sugar
How to make homemade cinnamon sugar pecans
1. Prepare the sugar syrup
In a medium saucepan, combine 1/4 cup sugar and 1/4 cup water. Place the pan over medium heat and stir gently until the sugar dissolves completely. Once it starts to simmer, reduce the heat slightly — you want a gentle simmer, not a rapid boil.
This creates a simple syrup that helps the cinnamon sugar stick perfectly to the pecans later.
2. Coat the pecans
Add 2 cups of pecans to the simmering sugar-water mixture. Stir well to make sure every nut is evenly coated. You’ll notice the syrup thickening slightly as it clings to the nuts — that’s a good sign!
3. Transfer to a baking sheet
Using a slotted spoon, remove the pecans from the syrup, letting any excess drip off. Spread the pecans evenly on a parchment-lined cookie sheet. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
4. Add the cinnamon sugar
Sprinkle a generous amount of cinnamon sugar over the wet pecans. Don’t be shy — the sugar mixture will caramelize slightly in the oven, creating that signature sweet-and-crunchy coating.
5. Bake to perfection
Place the tray in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the pecans are fragrant and lightly toasted. Keep an eye on them toward the end, as nuts can burn quickly.
6. Cool and enjoy
Once baked, remove the tray from the oven and let the pecans cool completely. As they cool, they’ll harden into that irresistible candied crunch. Break apart any clusters and store them in an airtight container — if they last that long!
Candied Pecans Tips
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Keep a close eye while baking: Pecans can go from golden to burnt quickly. Check them after 10 minutes.
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Line your baking sheet: Parchment paper or a silicone baking mat keeps them from sticking.
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Double the recipe: These tend to vanish fast! If gifting or serving at a party, make extra.
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Try flavor variations: Add a pinch of salt for balance, or a splash of vanilla extract to the syrup for extra warmth.
Storage Tips
Allow the pecans to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container and keep them at room temperature for up to two weeks. You can also freeze them for longer storage — they’ll stay crisp and flavorful.
If they ever lose their crunch, reheat them on a baking sheet at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes to refresh the texture.
Serving Ideas
Cinnamon Sugar Pecans are endlessly versatile. Here are a few delicious ways to enjoy them:
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Snack time: A sweet, crunchy handful for any time of day.
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Salad topping: Add to leafy greens, goat cheese, and cranberries for a holiday salad.
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Breakfast boost: Sprinkle over yogurt, oatmeal, or pancakes.
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Dessert garnish: Top off ice cream, brownies, or pies with a few candied pecans.
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Homemade gifts: Package them in mason jars with ribbon and a festive tag — the perfect holiday treat!
Other holiday inspired recipes to try:
Like this recipe? Be sure to check out:
- Chestnut Praline Latte
- Instant Pot Candied Nuts
- Chocolate Almond Clusters
- Gingerbread Blossoms
- Candied Almonds
Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 cups pecans
- generous amount of cinnamon sugar
Instructions
Nutrition Information:
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 1571Sodium: 3mgCarbohydrates: 80gFiber: 19gSugar: 60gProtein: 18g
Did you make this recipe? Please leave a comment below or a review in the recipe card above. Want to make them later? PIN the image below to your favorite board. THANK YOU for your support!
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Ryon says
I want more please.
Kelley says
I will make more. Promise.
Melissa S says
I try to make my husband and son a few homemade gifts each year, sometimes knit and sometimes edible.
i think my son would love these pecans.
Kelley says
I hope he enjoys them! They are super easy to make. And homemade is always best!