A sweet, crunchy, treat, these Cinnamon Roasted Pecans combine warm spices, pure maple syrup, and a hint of vanilla for a sweet-and-salty snack that's perfect for holiday gatherings, gifts, or a cozy night in.
A Healthier Alternative
These baked cinnamon pecans are great warm, straight from the oven, but I also love how the flavors deepen overnight, making them even more irresistible the next day. If you love toasted nuts, sweet-and-spicy contrasts, or homemade edible gifts, this recipe is for you.
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Ingredients and Substitutions
Here are a few quick notes about the key ingredients in this recipe. You can see a complete ingredient list and instructions in the recipe card below.
Raw pecans - Use fresh, unsalted raw pecans. Halves work best for even roasting and that crave-worthy crunch.
Maple syrup - Pure maple syrup gives natural sweetness and caramel-like flavor. Avoid pancake syrup here - its additives can make the coating sticky instead of crisp.
Olive oil - Just a small amount adds richness and helps the cinnamon coating bake on evenly. A neutral-tasting olive oil works well, but avocado oil can be swapped in.
Ground cinnamon - The star spice! For a stronger cinnamon punch, increase to taste or add a pinch of nutmeg.
Vanilla extract - Enhances the warmth of the maple and cinnamon without overpowering.
Salt - Just enough to balance sweetness and bring out the nutty flavor. Flaky sea salt can be sprinkled on after baking for extra texture.
How to Make Cinnamon Roasted Pecans
Before you start: Preheat oven to 300°F and line a baking sheet with parchment.
Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine pecans, maple syrup, cinnamon, vanilla, and sea salt. Toss to evenly coat. (If using coconut sugar, whisk sugar + 1 teaspoon water until sandy and sticky before adding the nuts.)
Step 2: Arrange pecans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet-no clumps for best crunch! Bake for 17-18 minutes, stirring halfway, until toasty and fragrant.
Recipe Tips
- Watch the oven closely. Pecans toast quickly.
- Customize the flavor. Try adding a pinch of ground nutmeg or a bit of sea salt for a more complex flavor profile.
- Make a big batch. These are great for holiday gifts. Pack them in mason jars with festive ribbon.
Serving Suggestions
- Bundle them in a small jar and give as a homemade gift or hostess treat.
- Stir into a green salad or gluten-free chicken salad for crunch and sweetness.
- Serve on a cheese board alongside dried fruit, soft cheeses, and dark chocolate.
- Add to cinnamon roll overnight oats or yogurt for a cozy, crunchy breakfast.
More Easy Nut Recipes
Love this recipe? Please consider leaving a 5-star 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟rating on the recipe card below and let me know what you think in the comments!
📖 Recipe
Cinnamon Roasted Pecans
Ingredients
- 2 cups (8oz) raw pecan halves
- 2 Tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat to oven to 300°F (150C) and line a baking sheet with parchment.
- In a medium bowl, combine pecans, maple syrup, olive oil, cinnamon, vanilla, and salt. Stir to evenly coat.
- Arrange pecans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 18-19 minutes until toasted and fragrant. The maple syrup will have candied.
- Let cool completely on the baking sheet. The pecans will crisp up as they cool.
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