Ready in: 3 hours · Serves: 4-6 · Technique: Slow Cooking · Storage: Airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
Quick Answer
These Slow Cooker Cinnamon Pecans are a delightful, sweet treat that are easy to prepare and perfect for holiday gatherings.
The autumn air in New York City has a way of sparking excitement for the holiday season. As I stroll through bustling streets adorned with twinkling lights, the scent of roasted chestnuts mingles with the crispness of fallen leaves. It's the perfect backdrop for whipping up treats that bring warmth and joy to family gatherings, especially for Thanksgiving and Christmas. One treat that always makes an appearance on my holiday table is Slow Cooker Cinnamon Pecans. They're incredibly easy to prepare and fill the room with a nutty, sweet aroma that makes it feel like the holidays have truly arrived.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy holiday schedules.
- Fills your home with a warm, inviting aroma that instantly brings the holiday spirit.
- A deliciously sweet and crunchy snack that is perfect for holiday gatherings.
- Versatile for gifting or serving, making it a delightful addition to any festive spread.
- Long-lasting freshness when stored properly, perfect for snacking throughout the season.
Ingredients
To craft these delightful pecans, you'll need the following key ingredients:
- 1 cup raw pecan halves
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Slow Cooker Cinnamon Pecans (Step-by-Step)
This recipe is simple and straightforward, ensuring you'll have a tasty treat in no time.
Step 1: Preparation
Begin by lining your slow cooker with a non-stick liner or lightly greasing it. This prevents the nuts from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Mix the Coating
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt. The combination of sweet and warm flavors is irresistible.
Step 3: Coat the Pecans
Add the raw pecan halves to the mixture and then drizzle the melted butter and vanilla extract over them. Use a spatula to gently fold everything together, making sure each pecan is well-coated.
Step 4: Slow Cooking
Transfer the entire pecan mixture into your slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for about 2.5 to 3 hours. Stir every 30 minutes for an evenly toasted flavor.
Step 5: Cooling
Once perfectly toasted, pour the pecans onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Allow them to cool completely, and as they do, they'll develop that delicious crunchy texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the stirring during cooking can result in unevenly coated nuts.
- Overcooking can lead to burnt sugar, so keep an eye on the time!
- Rushing the cooling process will cause the pecans to clump together.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Experiment with flavors, such as nutmeg or a pinch of cayenne for an unexpected twist.
- Package the pecans in a decorative jar for a fantastic gift idea.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh for up to two weeks.
Variations
- Use walnuts or almonds instead of pecans for a different nutty flavor.
- Add a pinch of sea salt for a sweet and salty combination.
- Incorporate maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a unique sweetness.
How to Serve
- Serve in a decorative bowl as a delightful snack during holiday gatherings.
- Use as a topping for desserts like ice cream or yogurt.
- Gift them in a mason jar as a homemade holiday treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the pecans up to a week in advance and store them in an airtight container.
- Storage: Keep the pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
- Reheating: If needed, reheat in the oven for a few minutes to refresh the crunch.
- Freezing: These pecans can be frozen for up to three months; just ensure they're in a sealed bag or container.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Through countless trials, I discovered that the key to delicious cinnamon pecans lies not just in the ingredients but in the patience of the slow cooking process. Each batch I made taught me that there's beauty in simplicity, especially during the busy holiday season.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 2 cups · Serving Size: ¼ cup
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~200 calories · 2g protein · 23g carbs · 12g fat
Recipe by:
Delicious Slow Cooker Cinnamon Pecans
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Line your slow cooker with a non-stick liner or lightly grease it.
- In a medium-sized bowl, mix together brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt.
- Add the raw pecan halves and drizzle melted butter and vanilla extract over them. Fold gently to coat.
- Transfer mixture to slow cooker, cover, and cook on low for 2.5 to 3 hours, stirring every 30 minutes.
- Pour pecans onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and allow to cool completely.
Notes
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! You can substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even cashews. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the nut you choose.
How can I make these cinnamon pecans more festive?
To add a festive twist, consider incorporating spices like nutmeg or a pinch of cayenne for a bit of heat. You could also sprinkle some sea salt on top after they come out of the slow cooker for a sweet and salty combination.
How long will the pecans stay fresh?
When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, the cinnamon pecans will remain fresh for up to two weeks. Be sure to keep them away from direct sunlight and moisture!
