Crunchy, sweet, and lightly spiced, these maple cinnamon roasted pecans are a healthy snack that satisfies cravings without guilt.
Packed with plant-based protein, heart-healthy fats, and fiber, they support energy and digestion while keeping sugar low.
Quick to prepare in just 15 minutes, these naturally gluten-free, paleo-friendly pecans are perfect for snacking, topping salads, or gifting—an effortless and nourishing treat for everyday life.
15-Minute Maple Cinnamon Roasted Pecans
Equipment
- 1 large mixing bowl
- (1) Baking sheet
- Parchment paper (to line baking sheet)
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 4 cups raw pecans
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Before starting with the nuts, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the oven reaches the perfect temperature by the time you are ready to roast the pecans. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. This small step ensures your pecans roast evenly and don’t burn or stick to the tray.
- Prepare the Pecans: Measure out 4 cups of raw pecans and place them in a large mixing bowl. Using raw pecans allows the natural flavor and crunch to shine through without any added oils or salts. Ensure the nuts are fresh for the best aroma and taste.
- Add Sweetness with Maple Syrup: Pour 3 tablespoons of pure maple syrup over the pecans. Maple syrup acts as a natural sweetener and helps the cinnamon and salt adhere evenly to the nuts. Stir gently with a spoon or spatula, making sure each pecan is lightly coated with syrup. Avoid overmixing to prevent the nuts from breaking.
- Spice It Up with Cinnamon: Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon over the coated pecans. Cinnamon adds a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the natural nuttiness of pecans. Mix carefully so that every nut has a thin, even layer of cinnamon for consistent flavor in every bite.
- Season with Salt: Add ½ teaspoon of salt to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavor of the roasted pecans. Stir gently again to distribute the salt evenly across the mixture. This step brings out the sweet-salty contrast that makes these pecans so addictive.
- Spread on Baking Sheet: Transfer the coated pecans to the prepared baking sheet. Spread them in a single, even layer to ensure uniform roasting. Avoid overcrowding, as too many nuts together can lead to uneven cooking and steaming rather than roasting.
- Initial Roasting: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the pecans for 5 minutes. After the first five minutes, remove the sheet carefully using oven mitts and stir the pecans gently. This helps them cook evenly and ensures all sides are exposed to the heat.
- Continue Roasting: Return the tray to the oven and roast for an additional 5 minutes, keeping a close eye on the nuts to prevent burning. The pecans should turn a golden brown and release a fragrant aroma, signaling that they are perfectly roasted. Oven temperatures may vary, so check frequently during this step.
- Cool Completely: Once roasted, remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the pecans to cool completely on the tray. Cooling is essential because the nuts will continue to harden slightly and the maple syrup coating will set, giving them a crunchy texture.
- Store or Serve: After cooling, transfer the pecans to an airtight container to maintain freshness and crunch. They can be stored at room temperature for up to two weeks, or refrigerated for longer shelf life. Serve as a snack, toss over salads, or package them in jars for gifting.
Notes
- Always use pure maple syrup for the best flavor and proper coating; imitation syrups may not caramelize or stick correctly.
- For even roasting, spread pecans in a single layer on the baking sheet; overcrowding can cause uneven cooking.
- Stirring halfway through ensures all nuts roast evenly and prevents burning.
- Allow the pecans to cool completely before storing—they will crisp up as they set.
- These roasted pecans are naturally gluten-free, paleo-friendly, and low in added sugar, making them a healthy, versatile snack.
Chef’s Secrets: Elevate Flavor Effortlessly
To achieve perfectly roasted pecans every time, the key lies in balancing heat and timing.
Preheating the oven ensures consistent cooking, while stirring the nuts halfway through prevents burning and ensures every pecan is coated with maple syrup and cinnamon.
Experiment with additional spices like nutmeg, cardamom, or a pinch of cayenne for a subtle kick.
For a deeper flavor, allow the pecans to marinate in the maple-cinnamon mixture for 5–10 minutes before roasting.
Using fresh, high-quality pecans will amplify natural sweetness and texture.
Serving Suggestions: Delicious Ways to Enjoy
These maple cinnamon roasted pecans are incredibly versatile.
Enjoy them straight from the jar as a quick snack or sprinkle over morning oatmeal, yogurt, or smoothie bowls for added crunch and flavor.
They also make a delightful addition to salads, roasted vegetables, or grain bowls, providing a nutty sweetness and satisfying texture.
For a festive touch, pack them in small jars or decorative bags as thoughtful homemade gifts for friends and family.
Storage Tips: Keep Nuts Crunchy Longer
To maintain their crisp texture and flavor, store roasted pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator, where they can last up to a month, or freeze in a sealed bag for up to three months.
Avoid leaving them in a warm or humid environment, as moisture can cause the maple coating to become sticky or the nuts to lose crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes! Walnuts, almonds, or cashews can be roasted in the same maple-cinnamon mixture.
Cooking times may vary slightly depending on nut size and density, so check for golden-brown color and aroma.
2. Can I make these nuts vegan or paleo?
Absolutely—this recipe is already naturally paleo and vegan-friendly as it uses pure maple syrup instead of honey.
Always check the ingredient labels to ensure they align with your dietary preferences.
3. How do I prevent nuts from burning?
Stir the nuts halfway through roasting and keep a close eye on the last few minutes.
Baking times vary by oven, so it’s better to check frequently for golden brown color and nutty aroma.
4. Can I make these in advance for gifting?
Yes, roasted pecans can be made ahead of time and stored in airtight containers.
They remain fresh at room temperature for two weeks and up to a month in the refrigerator, making them ideal for homemade gifts.
5. Can I add more spices or flavors?
Definitely! Try adding a pinch of ground nutmeg, ginger, or cayenne pepper for a warm, spicy twist.
You can also toss in a few drops of vanilla or almond extract for added aroma. Just add these before roasting to allow the flavors to meld with the nuts.
