Miley Making addictive Sugar Pecans at home is actually easier than baking a batch of cookies. There’s minimal fuss, barely any prep, and if you have the right ingredients, they taste exactly like what you get at a holiday market.
It’s sweet, it’s crunchy, and it’s the perfect “I need a quick treat” snack that still feels incredibly special, is totally homemade, and easy to share with friends and family.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Something special happens when sugar melts into pecans and turns glossy and crisp. This recipe keeps things simple and rewarding.
Sweet crunch: Every bite hits with caramel like flavor.
Easy prep: Just mix, bake, and stir once.
Great for sharing: Makes a big batch with little effort.
Versatile use: Works for snacks, salads, and desserts.
Holiday ready: Perfect for gift jars or party bowls.
Simple pantry items: No fancy ingredients needed.
Ingredients
For the Sugar Pecans:
- 4 cups pecan halves
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 egg whites
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Optional additions:
- Pinch of salt for balance
- Extra cinnamon for bolder spice
Step by Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by heating your oven to 325°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper so the pecans do not stick and clean up stays easy.
2. Whip the Egg Whites
Add the egg whites to a mixing bowl and whisk until slightly foamy. You do not need stiff peaks, just enough air to help the sugar coat the nuts evenly.
3. Add Sugar and Spice
Pour in the brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Stir well until the mixture looks smooth and glossy.
4. Coat the Pecans
Add the pecan halves to the bowl and toss until every piece looks fully coated. Take your time here so the flavor spreads evenly.
5. Spread on the Pan
Pour the coated pecans onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread them into a single layer so they bake evenly.
6. Bake and Stir
Place the pan in the oven and bake for about 40 minutes. Stir the pecans halfway through to keep them from clumping and help them brown evenly.
7. Cool Completely
Remove the pan from the oven and let the pecans cool fully. As they cool, the sugar hardens and creates that crisp texture.
Tips and Variations
- Let them cool untouched before breaking apart.
- Try nutmeg or pumpkin spice for variety.
- Reduce sugar slightly and add a pinch of salt.
- Store in jars once fully cooled.
- Keep in an airtight container for freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Sugar pecans work well as a snack straight from the jar. They also shine sprinkled over salads, yogurt, or ice cream for extra texture.
When guests visit, I like to set out a small bowl alongside coffee or tea. They feel simple yet special and disappear fast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole eggs instead of egg whites?
Egg whites work best for crisp coating, so stick with them.
How long do they stay fresh?
They keep well for up to two weeks when stored airtight.
Can I freeze sugar pecans?
Yes, freezing works well and keeps the crunch.
Do they need refrigeration?
No, room temperature storage works best.
Can I double the batch?
Yes, just use two baking sheets for even baking.
Final Thoughts
Sugar Pecans prove that simple ingredients can turn into something addictive. They taste warm, sweet, and crunchy without any fuss.
Sugar Pecans Sweet Crunchy Snack
Ingredients
For the Sugar Pecans:
- 4 cups pecan halves
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter melted
- 2 egg whites
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Optional additions:
- Pinch of salt for balance
- Extra cinnamon for bolder spice
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by heating your oven to 325°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper so the pecans do not stick and clean up stays easy.
- Whip the Egg Whites: Add the egg whites to a mixing bowl and whisk until slightly foamy. You do not need stiff peaks, just enough air to help the sugar coat the nuts evenly.
- Add Sugar and Spice: Pour in the brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Stir well until the mixture looks smooth and glossy.
- Coat the Pecans: Add the pecan halves to the bowl and toss until every piece looks fully coated. Take your time here so the flavor spreads evenly.
- Spread on the Pan: Pour the coated pecans onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread them into a single layer so they bake evenly.
- Bake and Stir: Place the pan in the oven and bake for about 40 minutes. Stir the pecans halfway through to keep them from clumping and help them brown evenly.
- Cool Completely: Remove the pan from the oven and let the pecans cool fully. As they cool, the sugar hardens and creates that crisp texture.
