Gingersnap Pecans Brown Sugar Crunchy Snack

Indulge in the delightful crunch of these irresistible Gingersnap Pecans Brown Sugar Delight! Packed with the warm flavors of molasses, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, these candied pecans are a true holiday treat that will have your kitchen filled with the aroma of festive cheer. Whether you’re looking for a snack to share with loved ones, a topping to elevate your salads, or a homemade gift that will surely impress, these pecans are a must-try.

I still remember the first time I made these Gingersnap Pecans Brown Sugar Delight for a cookie exchange; they were an instant hit and disappeared quicker than I could imagine! The combination of the tender pecans with the sweet and spicy coating is simply irresistible. The deep flavor of molasses adds a nostalgic touch that will transport you back to the comforting memories of old-fashioned baked goods. Trust me; these pecans are a game-changer for any holiday gathering or cozy night in.

These pecans are not just a snack; they are a symbol of joy and togetherness, perfect for sharing with family and friends. The versatility of this recipe allows you to get creative with how you enjoy these delightful treats – from serving them alongside cheese platters to sprinkling them over desserts or even enjoying them as a surprise treat in lunch boxes. Embrace the holiday spirit with every bite of these Gingersnap Pecans Brown Sugar Delight and make this season a little sweeter and spicier!

Quick Benefits

• Warmth and Spice: Infused with classic baking spices like ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and white pepper, these pecans offer a cozy and nostalgic flavor profile that fills the house with holiday warmth.
• Versatile Snack: Perfect for gifting, snacking, or adding a sweet and spicy crunch to salads, these gingersnap pecans are a versatile treat that can elevate various dishes and occasions.
• Long-Lasting: Stored properly in an airtight container, these candied pecans can last up to a week at room temperature, making them a convenient make-ahead option for holiday gatherings or last-minute guests.
• Customizable: Easily adaptable to personal preferences, you can swap ingredients like walnuts or almonds, adjust the spice levels, or experiment with additional flavors like orange zest for a unique twist on this festive snack.

Why You’ll Love This Gingersnap Pecans Brown Sugar Crunchy Snack Recipe

• Nostalgic Flavor Profile: This recipe combines the flavors of classic gingersnap cookies with warm spices and molasses, evoking a sense of nostalgia and comfort.
• Perfect for Gifting: Ideal for holiday gifting, these gingersnap pecans are a delightful homemade treat that can be packaged beautifully to share with friends and family.
• Versatile Usage: Enjoy these pecans as a snack, a salad topper, or as a sweet and spicy accent to various dishes, making them a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.
• Addictive Snack: The crispy sugary coating and warm spices make these pecans highly addictive, perfect for snacking or entertaining guests during gatherings.
• Freezing Option: The ability to freeze these pecans allows for easy make-ahead preparations, making them a convenient and delicious option for impromptu guests or as a thoughtful gift.
• Customizable: The recipe offers suggestions for ingredient swaps and adjustments to cater to personal preferences, ensuring that you can tailor the flavors to suit your taste.
• Southern Charm: Rooted in Southern tradition, these gingersnap pecans capture the essence of cozy winter evenings and festive holiday markets, adding a touch of charm to your celebrations.
• Memorable Impact: Feedback from friends and neighbors attests to the irresistible nature of these pecans, guaranteeing that they will leave a lasting impression and have people asking for the recipe.
• Easy Storage: With proper storage in an airtight container, these pecans can last up to a week, allowing you to enjoy them at your leisure or have them readily available for snacking and entertaining.

Ingredients for Gingersnap Pecans Brown Sugar Crunchy Snack

Main Ingredients

• 2 pounds raw pecan halves
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons unsulfured molasses
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 2 cups light brown sugar, packed

Pro Tips for Gingersnap Pecans Brown Sugar Crunchy Snack

Pro Tip 1: To enhance the nostalgic gingersnap flavor, ensure each pecan is thoroughly coated with the sugar and spice mixture before spreading them out in a single layer on the baking sheet. This will create a crispy and flavorful coating on every nut.

Pro Tip 2: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a touch of orange zest to the coating mix. The bright citrusy notes will complement the warm spices and create a refreshing wintry twist to the pecans.

Pro Tip 3: To extend the shelf life of these irresistible pecans, freeze them once cooled by spreading them on a tray until solid, then transferring them to a freezer bag. Thaw them at room temperature for about ten minutes for that fresh taste and crispy texture. This makes them a convenient make-ahead option for last-minute guests or thoughtful gifts.

How to Make Gingersnap Pecans Brown Sugar Crunchy Snack

Step 1: Prepare Baking Equipment

Preheat the oven to 200°F and line a baking sheet with a silicone baking mat or aluminum foil sprayed with non-stick spray.

Step 2: Mix Coating

Combine molasses, light brown sugar, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, white pepper, and water in a large bowl, whisking until smooth.

Step 3: Coat Pecans Evenly

Toss pecan halves in the bowl until coated with the spiced molasses mixture.

Step 4: Arrange and Bake

Arrange the coated pecans in a single layer on the baking sheet and place in the preheated oven.

Step 5: Bake and Stir

Bake for 1 hour, stirring pecans every 20 minutes to prevent clumping and promote even baking.

Step 6: Cool and Store

Take the baking sheet out of the oven and let the pecans cool completely. Then, transfer them to an airtight container for storage.

Storage Tips

Once you have made these delicious Gingersnap Pecans, store them in a tightly sealed container at room temperature. If your kitchen tends to be humid, maintain their crispness by initially storing them in a paper bag for the first few hours before transferring them to a jar. These pecans can also be frozen successfully, making them a great make-ahead option for busy times.

To ensure the pecans stay fresh and maintain their crispy sugary coating, spread them out in a single layer on a tray to freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw the pecans at room temperature for about ten minutes to achieve a fresh taste and retain their crispy texture. This method is ideal for unexpected guests or when you want to have a batch ready for impromptu gifting occasions. Remember that making a double batch may be wise if you want to savor these flavorful pecans for more than a few days—they tend to disappear quickly once you set them out for snacking or sharing during the holiday season.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a nut-free version, consider substituting roasted seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for the pecans. These seeds can provide a similar crunch and texture to the dish without compromising on the overall flavor profile.

If you prefer a milder spice level, you can reduce the amount of ground ginger in the recipe and add a dash of vanilla extract to the coating mixture. This adjustment will help tone down the spiciness while adding a hint of sweetness to the gingersnap pecans.

Consider using dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar for a deeper molasses flavor. This substitution can enhance the richness of the dish and provide a more intense caramelized taste to the pecans.

Serving Suggestions

These Gingersnap Pecans are a versatile treat that can be served in various creative ways. For a festive holiday cheese platter, serve these candied pecans alongside an assortment of cheeses to add a sweet and spicy accent. You can also sprinkle them over a bowl of creamy butternut squash soup for a delightful crunch and extra burst of flavor.

For a simple and delicious dessert, chop these gingersnap pecans and use them as a topping for creamy vanilla ice cream. The combination of the warm spices and sugary coating will complement the cold, creamy ice cream perfectly. Additionally, tuck a handful of these pecans into lunch boxes as a surprise treat for a midday pick-me-up. Whether enjoyed on their own or used as a topping, these pecans are sure to be a hit during the holiday season.

FAQs for Gingersnap Pecans Brown Sugar Crunchy Snack

Can I use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar?

Yes, you can substitute dark brown sugar for a deeper molasses flavor, although it will result in a slightly richer taste.

How should I store the gingersnap pecans?

Once completely cooled, store the pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Why is it important to stir the pecans every 20 minutes while baking?

Stirring every 20 minutes ensures even baking and prevents the spiced coating from burning.

Can I freeze these gingersnap pecans?

Yes, you can freeze the pecans. Spread cooled pecans on a tray and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature for ten minutes for a fresh taste and crispy shell. They are perfect for last-minute guests or make-ahead gifts.

Conclusion

I hope this recipe for Gingersnap Pecans Brown Sugar Delight brings you as much joy and warmth as it has brought to my family and friends. The combination of molasses, brown sugar, and spices creates a truly irresistible treat that is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply looking for a cozy snack to enjoy by the fire.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with this recipe – try different nuts, adjust the spices to suit your taste preferences, or even add a hint of citrus for a refreshing twist. The beauty of these Gingersnap Pecans Brown Sugar Delight lies in their versatility and ability to bring a touch of homemade goodness to any moment.

So go ahead, whip up a batch of these delightful pecans, share them with your loved ones, and savor every crunchy, flavorful bite. Trust me, once you try these Gingersnap Pecans Brown Sugar Delight, they will become a beloved staple in your holiday snack rotation for years to come.

Gingersnap Pecans Brown Sugar Crunchy Snack

“Capture the essence of the holiday season with these addictive Gingersnap Pecans – a perfect blend of molasses, spices, and sweetness.”

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time10 min

Cook Time60 min

Total Time70 min

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings16 Servings (About 8 cups spiced pecans)

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 2 pounds raw pecan halves
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons unsulfured molasses
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 2 cups light brown sugar, packed

Instructions

1. Prepare Baking Equipment: Preheat the oven to 200°F and line a baking sheet with a silicone baking mat or aluminum foil sprayed with non-stick spray.
2. Mix Coating: Combine molasses, light brown sugar, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, white pepper, and water in a large bowl, whisking until smooth.
3. Coat Pecans Evenly: Toss pecan halves in the bowl until coated with the spiced molasses mixture.
4. Arrange and Bake: Arrange the coated pecans in a single layer on the baking sheet and place in the preheated oven.
5. Bake and Stir: Bake for 1 hour, stirring pecans every 20 minutes to prevent clumping and promote even baking.
6. Cool and Store: Take the baking sheet out of the oven and let the pecans cool completely. Then, transfer them to an airtight container for storage.