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Sugar Pecans Sweet Crunchy Snack

Crisp pecans coated in cinnamon sugar for an easy snack or topping.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8 Servings
Course: Snack
Cuisine: American

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

Method
 

  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.