Looking for a tasty and crunchy snack? You’ve found it! Maple Cinnamon Roasted Pecans are not just easy to make, but they also pack a punch of flavor. With a few simple ingredients like maple syrup and cinnamon, you can whip up a delightful treat in no time. Join me as I share the step-by-step instructions, tips, and variations to elevate your snacking game!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The sweet maple syrup paired with warm spices creates a delightful and comforting taste that’s hard to resist.
- Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and simple steps, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
- Versatile Snack: These roasted pecans are great on their own, as a salad topping, or as part of a cheese platter, adding a touch of elegance to any dish.
- Perfect for Gifting: Packaged in a cute jar, these pecans make a thoughtful and delicious homemade gift for friends and family.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 2 cups pecan halves
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon grated nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- A pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
These ingredients bring a warm, sweet taste to your pecans. The maple syrup is the star, providing rich sweetness. Ground cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth and spice. Sea salt enhances the flavor, creating a perfect balance. Coconut oil gives a nice shine and helps with roasting. The vanilla extract adds a lovely undertone. If you like a little kick, cayenne pepper is optional.
Nutritional Information
- Calories per serving: Approximately 200 calories.
- Macronutrient breakdown:
- Fat: 18 grams
- Carbohydrates: 10 grams
- Protein: 3 grams
This snack is not just tasty; it also packs a punch of nutrition. Pecans are high in healthy fats and provide fiber. The maple syrup adds natural sugar, making it a delightful treat without refined sugars. Enjoy this snack as a quick boost or a sweet addition to your meals.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help with easy removal later.
Prepare the Maple Mixture
In a large bowl, mix together:
- 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon grated nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- A pinch of cayenne pepper (if you like some heat)
Whisk these ingredients until they blend well. This mix gives your pecans a sweet and spicy flavor.
Coat the Pecans
Add 2 cups of pecan halves to the bowl. Gently toss them in the maple mixture. Make sure each pecan gets a good coat. This helps bring out the flavors.
Roasting and Cooling
Spread the coated pecans in a single layer on the baking sheet. This allows them to roast evenly. Place the sheet in the oven. Roast for 15-20 minutes. Stir the pecans every 5 minutes. This helps them cook evenly and prevents burning. When done, they should be golden brown and smell amazing.
After roasting, take the sheet out of the oven. Let the pecans cool completely on the sheet. They will get crispier as they cool. Enjoy them right away or store them in an airtight container!
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring Even Roasting
To get the best results, stir the pecans every 5 minutes. This step helps them roast evenly. If you skip this, some pecans may burn while others stay soft. Stirring allows all sides to get that lovely golden color and crisp texture.
Achieving the Best Flavor
You can modify the ingredients to boost the flavor. If you love spices, try adding more cinnamon or nutmeg. You might also add a dash of ground ginger for a warm kick. Want a bit of heat? A pinch of cayenne pepper adds a fun twist. Just remember to adjust the sweetness if you add more spices.
Presentation Tips
Serve the pecans in a nice bowl. A sprinkle of extra cinnamon on top makes them look fancy. You can also add them to salads or cheese boards for a crunchy touch. These pecans not only taste great but also look beautiful on your table.
Pro Tips
- Even Coating: Ensure all pecans are evenly coated in the maple syrup mixture for consistent flavor in every bite.
- Watch the Oven: Keep an eye on the pecans while roasting; they can go from perfectly toasted to burnt in a matter of minutes.
- Cooling Time: Allow the pecans to cool completely on the baking sheet to maximize their crunchiness.
- Storage Tips: Store the cooled pecans in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and flavor for longer.
Variations
Spicy Maple Cinnamon Pecans
You can spice things up by adding cayenne pepper. This adds a nice kick to the sweet pecans. Start with just a pinch, and adjust to your taste. The warmth from the cayenne pairs well with the maple syrup and cinnamon. It creates a fun contrast that keeps you reaching for more. If you want more heat, feel free to add a bit more cayenne.
Sweet and Savory Mix
Mixing these pecans with other nuts or dried fruits makes a tasty treat. You can add walnuts or almonds for crunch. Dried cranberries or apricots add a nice sweetness. This mix works great for snacks or party bowls. Just keep the same maple mixture to coat all the nuts. It makes a lovely, colorful mix that everyone will enjoy.
Maple Cinnamon Pecans with a Twist
Try using different spices for a unique flavor. Cardamom or cloves can change the taste profile. A little cardamom adds warmth, while cloves give a festive vibe. You can still use the same base recipe. Just swap out the spices to see what you like best. It’s a fun way to experiment and find your favorite flavor.
Storage Info
Best Storage Practices
Store your Maple Cinnamon Roasted Pecans in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and crunchy. Choose a glass or plastic container with a tight lid. You can also use resealable bags, but ensure no air gets in. This helps lock in flavor and moisture.
Shelf Life
At room temperature, these pecans stay fresh for about two weeks. If you want to keep them longer, place them in the fridge. They can last for about a month in the fridge. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before snacking.
Re-crisping Tips
If your pecans lose their crunch, don’t worry! You can re-crisp them easily. Spread the pecans on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 to 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them so they don't burn. Cool them down, and they’ll be crunchy again!
FAQs
How do I make Maple Cinnamon Roasted Pecans healthier?
You can make these pecans healthier by using less maple syrup. Try cutting the syrup to 2 tablespoons. You can also swap coconut oil for a lighter oil, such as avocado oil. For added nutrition, consider tossing in some seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds. This adds crunch and healthy fats without changing the flavor much.
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, you can use other nuts! Walnuts work great for a similar taste. Almonds add a nice crunch and a different texture. Cashews bring a creamy flavor. Each nut brings its own twist, so feel free to mix them up for fun flavors!
How long can I keep Maple Cinnamon Roasted Pecans?
You can keep these pecans fresh for about two weeks. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them, and they can last up to a month. Just remember, if they lose crunch, you can re-crisp them in the oven for a few minutes!
You now have everything you need to make tasty maple cinnamon roasted pecans. We covered the ingredients, cooking steps, and tips to perfect your snack. Remember, even simple changes can boost flavor. Store your pecans properly to keep them fresh longer. Whether you enjoy them on their own or with other snacks, they make a delicious treat. Enjoy your time in the kitchen and share your delicious result
