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Are you ready to discover a snack that will make your taste buds dance? Maple Cinnamon Roasted Pecans are the perfect mix of sweet and crunchy. You can whip them up easily with a few simple ingredients. In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know. From picking quality pecans to tasty variations, let’s dive in and create a treat you won’t be able to resist!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Sweet and Spicy: The combination of maple syrup and cayenne pepper creates a unique flavor that is both sweet and spicy, making these pecans irresistible.
- Perfect for Snacking: These roasted pecans are a great healthy snack option that satisfies sweet cravings without the guilt.
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch of these delicious pecans in no time.
- Great for Gifting: Pack them in a jar or a cute bag, and they make a fantastic homemade gift for friends and family during the holidays!
Ingredients
Detailed Ingredient List
Here’s what you need to make maple cinnamon roasted pecans:
– 2 cups pecan halves
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil (melted)
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– A pinch of cayenne pepper (optional for a kick)
These simple ingredients blend well to create a tasty snack. The maple syrup adds sweetness, while the cinnamon gives warmth.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap a few ingredients if you need to. For coconut oil, use unsalted butter. It works well and adds a rich flavor. If you want a sugar-free option, try using sugar-free maple syrup. You can also use other nuts, like almonds or cashews. Adjust the spices based on your taste.
Tips for Selecting Quality Pecans
Choose fresh pecans for the best flavor. Look for nuts that are plump and shiny. Avoid any that look shriveled or have dark spots. If you can, buy them from a store with high turnover to ensure freshness. Always check the date on the package for the best quality.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheating the Oven
First, you need to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step warms the air. It helps the pecans roast evenly. While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleaning easier later.
Preparing the Coating Mixture
Now, grab a large mixing bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of melted coconut oil. Then pour in 1/4 cup of pure maple syrup. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Use a whisk to mix everything until it blends well. The mixture should look smooth and shiny.
Coating and Spreading the Pecans
Next, add 2 cups of pecan halves to the bowl. Gently toss them in the maple syrup mixture. Make sure every pecan gets a nice coat. Once they are all coated, spread them out on the baking sheet. Aim for a single layer. This helps them cook evenly.
Roasting and Cooling Process
Now, place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Roast the pecans for 15 to 20 minutes. Stir them every 5 minutes. This keeps them from burning and helps them cook well. When they turn golden and smell great, they are done. Take the baking sheet out of the oven and let them cool completely. As they cool, they will get crisp. Once cooled, you can enjoy or store them in an airtight container.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Perfect Roasting
To roast pecans, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This heat is just right. Spread the pecans on a baking sheet. Make sure they are in a single layer. Stir them every five minutes. This step helps them cook evenly. Watch closely to avoid burning. They should turn golden and smell great in about 15 to 20 minutes.
Enhancing Flavor with Additional Spices
You can make these pecans even better with extra spices. Try adding nutmeg, which adds warmth. A pinch of cayenne pepper gives a nice kick. You can also use ginger or allspice for a twist. Just be cautious with strong spices. A little goes a long way. Mix these spices in the coating mixture for the best flavor.
Making Ahead of Time and Serving Suggestions
You can make these pecans ahead of time. They stay fresh in an airtight container for up to two weeks. Serve them as a snack or on salads. They add a great crunch and taste. You can also use them as a topping for ice cream. No matter how you enjoy them, they will be a hit!
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Spices: Always use fresh ground spices for the best flavor. If possible, grind your own cinnamon and nutmeg for maximum aroma and taste.
- Watch the Roasting Time: Keep a close eye on the pecans while they roast. They can go from perfectly golden to burnt very quickly, so stir them every 5 minutes.
- Cooling is Key: Allow the pecans to cool completely on the baking sheet. This will help them become crisp and prevent them from clumping together.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add other spices like cardamom or allspice, or even a splash of bourbon for an extra kick in flavor!
Variations
Sweet and Spicy Maple Cinnamon Pecans
You can add a twist with sweet and spicy maple cinnamon pecans. To do this, mix in a bit of cayenne pepper. This adds heat and balances the sweetness of maple and cinnamon. Just a pinch can make a big taste difference. The blend of flavors will surprise you and your friends. It’s a fun snack for those who like a bit of zing!
Savory Maple-Cayenne Pecans
For a savory option, try maple-cayenne pecans. Just add more cayenne pepper to the mix. This gives the nuts a bold flavor. The sweet maple pairs well with the spicy kick. You can also add a hint of garlic powder or smoked paprika for extra depth. These nuts make a great topping for salads or soups.
Maple Cinnamon Pecans with Chocolate Drizzle
If you love chocolate, you can create maple cinnamon pecans with a chocolate drizzle. Once the pecans cool, melt dark or milk chocolate. Drizzle it over the pecans for a rich treat. Let the chocolate harden before serving. This version is perfect for dessert or a sweet snack. It’s a delightful way to enjoy the nuts while adding a new layer of taste.
Storage Info
Best Storage Practices
To keep your Maple Cinnamon Roasted Pecans fresh, store them in an airtight container. Glass jars work well. A sealed bag also keeps them tasty. Place the container in a cool, dark place, like a pantry or cupboard. Avoid heat and moisture. These factors can make your pecans lose their crunch.
Shelf Life of Maple Cinnamon Roasted Pecans
When stored properly, these pecans can last for about two weeks. After that, they may still be safe to eat, but they might lose flavor and crunch. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Frozen pecans can last for up to six months. Just make sure to use an airtight container.
How to Recrisp If They Lose Crunch
If your pecans lose their crunch, don’t worry! You can fix this easily. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Spread the pecans on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast them for about 5-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them, so they don’t burn. After roasting, let them cool again. They should be crisp and ready to enjoy!
FAQs
What can I use instead of coconut oil?
You can use butter or a different oil. Olive oil works well too. Each option gives a unique taste. Just keep the same amount. If you want a richer flavor, butter is a great choice.
Can I use other nuts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other nuts! Almonds, walnuts, or cashews are great options. Just remember to adjust the roasting time. Each nut has its own cooking time, so watch them closely.
How do I know when the pecans are done roasting?
You will know they are done when they smell amazing! The pecans should turn light brown. Stir them every five minutes to check. If they look golden and smell rich, they are ready.
Is this recipe suitable for gift-giving?
Absolutely! Maple cinnamon roasted pecans make a lovely gift. Package them in a jar or a cute bag. Add a ribbon for a personal touch. Friends and family will love this tasty treat!
In this blog post, I covered all you need for perfect maple cinnamon roasted pecans. I shared tips on picking quality ingredients and how to make delicious variations, like sweet and spicy or savory options. Remember to store them properly for freshness and enjoy them in many ways. Whether you snack on them or give them as gifts, these pecans are sure to please. With a little practice, you can master this simple yet delightful treat. Enjoy your roasting journe
Maple Cinnamon Roasted Pecans
Deliciously sweet and spiced pecans roasted to perfection.
Course Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 200 kcal
- 2 cups pecan halves
- 0.25 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 0.25 teaspoon nutmeg
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (melted)
- 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pinch cayenne pepper (optional for a kick)
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted coconut oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, vanilla extract, and cayenne pepper (if using). Whisk until well blended.
Add the pecan halves to the bowl and toss them gently in the maple syrup mixture until they are evenly coated.
Spread the coated pecans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking and prevent burning. The pecans should be golden and fragrant when done.
Remove the baking sheet from the oven, and let the pecans cool completely, as they will become crisp as they cool.
Once cool, transfer to an airtight container for storage or enjoy them right away!
Let the pecans cool completely for the best texture.
Keyword cinnamon, maple, pecans, roasted, snack
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