Are you craving a delicious and easy snack or a delightful addition to your favorite desserts? Look no further! This recipe for stovetop cinnamon pecans delivers crunchy, sweet, and aromatic pecans in just minutes. It's the perfect homemade treat for satisfying those sweet cravings, and it's surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is guaranteed to become a new favorite in your quick dinner ideas repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups pecan halves
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
Get started:
- In a large skillet, combine the pecan halves, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Make sure to distribute the sugars and spices evenly among the pecans.
Cook the pecans:
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Turn the heat to medium. Add the melted butter to the pecan mixture and stir to coat everything evenly.
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Cook, stirring frequently, for about 5-7 minutes, or until the pecans are toasted and fragrant, and the sugars have caramelized and are coating the nuts beautifully. Be careful not to burn them! Keep a close eye and stir consistently to prevent sticking or burning.
Cool and enjoy:
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Remove the skillet from the heat and let the pecans cool completely on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This allows the sugars to fully set, resulting in that perfect crunchy texture.
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Once cooled, store your delicious cinnamon pecans in an airtight container at room temperature. They'll stay fresh and crunchy for several days, if they last that long!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Pecans:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have a large quantity of pecans, consider working in batches to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
- Watch the heat: Medium heat is key. Too high, and you'll burn the pecans before the sugars caramelize; too low, and they'll cook unevenly.
- Stir constantly: Consistent stirring is crucial to prevent burning and ensure the pecans are evenly coated in the delicious cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Cool completely: Allowing the pecans to cool fully on parchment paper is essential for preventing them from sticking together and maintaining their crispness.
Variations:
- Spiced Pecans: Add a pinch of other spices like nutmeg, cloves, or ginger for a more complex flavor profile.
- Maple Pecans: Substitute maple syrup for some or all of the granulated sugar for a delightful maple flavor.
- Chocolate Pecans: Drizzle melted dark or milk chocolate over the cooled pecans for an extra decadent treat.
- Sea Salt Pecans: Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the cooled pecans for a sweet and salty combination.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximately 1/4 cup):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Fat: 18-20g
- Carbohydrates: 10-12g
- Sugar: 8-10g
- Protein: 2-3g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
These easy recipes for cinnamon pecans are perfect for gifting, sharing, or simply enjoying as a healthy and delicious snack. They're a fantastic addition to your homemade cooking repertoire and will undoubtedly impress your friends and family. The crunchy texture combined with the warm cinnamon flavor creates an irresistible treat, making this recipe a true winner among delicious dishes and best recipes. Enjoy!