🧁 Introduction: The Sweetest Scent of the Season
Have you ever stepped into a mall during the holidays and instantly been swept away by the warm, sweet scent of roasted candied nuts? That nostalgic aroma of cinnamon and sugar toasting in the air is pure magic — and the best part? You don’t have to wait for a trip to the mall to experience it.
With just a few pantry staples and minimal prep, you can make Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts that taste even better than the ones from your favorite kiosk. They’re crunchy, sweet, a little salty, and totally irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, looking for a budget-friendly gift idea, or just want your home to smell like Christmas, this easy recipe checks all the boxes.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts step-by-step — plus smart tips, tasty variations, and creative ways to serve and store Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts throughout the season.
Table of Contents
🥜 What Are Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts?
Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts are the sweet, crunchy treat your holiday season has been missing. Made by coating a mix of almonds and pecans in whipped egg whites, cinnamon, sugar, and a pinch of salt, then baking them until golden and crisp, they offer the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and nutty flavors in every bite.
You’ve likely encountered a version of these at a holiday market or mall kiosk, where that toasty aroma draws people in from across the food court. But here’s the secret: making them at home is ridiculously easy — and you’ll save a ton of money, too.
The beauty of homemade candied nuts lies in their versatility. Serve them as a snack at your next party, bag them up for festive gifts, or sprinkle them over salads and desserts for a sweet crunch. Plus, the ingredients are naturally gluten-free and packed with healthy fats, making them a more wholesome indulgence than your average cookie tray.
Whether you’re preparing a big batch for holiday gifting or just looking to fill your home with the nostalgic smell of cinnamon and sugar, these Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts deliver big on flavor, aroma, and charm.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s a reason Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts have become a holiday staple in kitchens across the country. They’re simple to make, smell incredible while baking, and hit that perfect note of sweet-meets-savory. But beyond flavor, here’s why this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your seasonal rotation:
✅ Only 6 Core Ingredients
All you need are nuts, egg whites, sugar, cinnamon, salt, and a splash of water. No fancy extracts, no preservatives — just wholesome pantry staples.
✅ Foolproof for Beginners
This recipe is incredibly forgiving. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just getting started, you’ll get delicious results with minimal effort.
✅ Budget-Friendly Gifting
Homemade treats always make thoughtful gifts — and these candied nuts are much more affordable than gourmet store-bought options. Package them in mason jars or festive cellophane bags for instant holiday cheer.
✅ Long Shelf Life
Unlike cookies or cakes, these stay fresh for weeks when stored properly. That makes them perfect for make-ahead holiday prep or snacking all season long.
✅ Customizable and Creative
Swap out pecans for cashews, try pumpkin spice instead of cinnamon, or add a pinch of cayenne for a sweet-and-spicy kick. This base recipe is your canvas.
So if you’re looking for a recipe that’s easy, delicious, and downright addictive, Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts check every box.
🧾 Ingredients You’ll Need (with Substitutions)
The beauty of Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts lies in their simplicity. With just a handful of everyday ingredients, you’ll whip up a snack that tastes gourmet and smells like the holidays. Below is everything you need to make a batch — plus a few easy swaps and ideas to customize it to your taste or dietary needs.
🥜 Nuts (5 cups pecan halves + 1 cup whole almonds)
This combination creates a rich, buttery texture (thanks to the pecans) and a satisfying crunch (from the almonds). You can also try:
- All pecans or all almonds
- Cashews for a creamy, mellow bite
- Walnuts for a more earthy flavor
- Mixed nuts for variety
👉 Pro Tip: Always use unsalted, raw nuts to control the saltiness and ensure they roast evenly in the sugar coating.
🥚 Egg Whites (2 large)
Beaten to stiff peaks, egg whites act as the glue that holds the cinnamon-sugar mixture to the nuts. They also create that irresistible crisp coating.
- Substitute: Aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) for a vegan alternative. Use 2 tablespoons in place of each egg white.
💧 Water (2 tablespoons)
Helps the egg whites whip to the proper consistency. No substitutions needed here.
🍬 Granulated Sugar (2 cups)
Sweetens and caramelizes around the nuts during baking.
- Substitute Options:
- Coconut sugar for a deeper, toffee-like flavor
- Maple sugar for a seasonal twist
- Low-carb: Erythritol or monk fruit sweetener (but baking time may need adjustment)
🌰 Ground Cinnamon (2 teaspoons)
The star spice. Warm, fragrant, and comforting — cinnamon is what gives these nuts their classic holiday aroma.
- Try adding a pinch of nutmeg, clove, or pumpkin pie spice for extra complexity.
🧂 Salt (2 teaspoons)
Don’t skip this! Salt balances the sweetness and enhances the nutty flavors. You can adjust to taste or use:
- Sea salt for a more gourmet finish
- Flaky salt sprinkled on top after baking for texture
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions: From Mixing Bowl to Magic
Making Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts is as satisfying as it is simple. With just a few steps and a bit of stirring, you’ll transform raw nuts into golden, crunchy perfection that fills your home with the scent of the holidays. Here’s exactly how to do it:
1️⃣ Preheat & Prep Your Baking Sheets
Preheat your oven to 300°F (149°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats, then lightly coat them with non-stick spray. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
2️⃣ Mix Your Nuts
In a large mixing bowl, combine 5 cups pecan halves and 1 cup whole almonds. Stir together and set aside. You want the nuts evenly mixed so they all get a nice sugar coating later.
3️⃣ Whip Egg Whites to Stiff Peaks
In a separate bowl, add 2 egg whites and 2 tablespoons of water. Using an electric mixer, beat on medium-high speed for about 4–5 minutes, or until stiff peaks form. This step is essential — it’s what creates that glossy shell on each nut.
🧠 Pro Tip: You’ll know you’ve reached stiff peaks when the mixture stands tall without collapsing when you lift the beaters.
4️⃣ Fold in Sugar, Cinnamon, and Salt
Gently fold in:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons salt
Mix just until combined — overmixing will deflate your fluffy egg whites.
5️⃣ Coat the Nuts
Pour the sugar mixture over your nut blend and stir gently but thoroughly to coat. Every nut should be glistening and sticky with spiced goodness.
6️⃣ Spread Evenly on Baking Sheets
Divide the coated nuts between the two baking sheets, spreading them out into a single layer. Avoid clumps to ensure even baking.
7️⃣ Bake and Stir
Place both trays in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even toasting.
- The nuts should turn golden and fragrant, but not burned.
8️⃣ Cool Completely
Once done, remove from the oven and let the nuts cool completely on the baking sheets. They’ll continue to crisp up as they cool, so don’t rush this step.
🧠 Pro Tips for Perfect Candied Nuts Every Time
Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned snack-maker, these pro tips will help you master the art of making Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts. With just a few tweaks, you’ll get that perfect crunchy coating, balanced sweetness, and addictive flavor every single time.
🥄 1. Whip Egg Whites Until They Stand Tall
The base of any good batch of Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts is properly whipped egg whites. Beat them until they reach stiff peaks — when you lift the beaters, the peaks should stand up firm and glossy. Under-whipped whites will result in a thin or patchy sugar coating.
🌀 2. Fold, Don’t Stir the Sugar Mixture
After whipping, gently fold the sugar, cinnamon, and salt into the egg whites. Avoid overmixing — you want to keep the mixture light and airy so it clings to the nuts evenly.
🔄 3. Stir While Baking for Even Coating
During baking, stir the nuts every 15 minutes. This prevents clumping and ensures each nut gets a uniform golden-brown color. Keep an eye on them in the final 10 minutes — candied nuts can go from golden to burnt quickly.
🧊 4. Cool Completely Before Storing
Once baked, let your Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts cool completely on the baking tray. This allows the sugar to harden and crisp up properly. Storing them too soon can lead to a sticky texture.
🌟 5. Add Unique Flavors
Give your batch a custom twist with one of these fun flavor boosters:
- A pinch of cayenne for spicy-sweet heat
- A teaspoon of vanilla or almond extract for depth
- A sprinkle of pumpkin spice for a fall-inspired version
🧂 6. Finish with a Flaky Salt Sprinkle
For a gourmet edge, sprinkle flaky sea salt on the nuts right after baking. The salty contrast enhances the sweetness and makes your Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts totally irresistible.
🍬 Tasty Variations to Try
The classic version of Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts is delicious on its own, but it also serves as a perfect base for endless variations. Whether you’re switching things up for different holidays, adapting to dietary needs, or just looking for something new, here are some irresistible twists to try.
🔥 Sweet & Spicy Kick
If you love a little contrast, adding heat takes your candied nuts to the next level.
- Stir ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or chili powder into the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Want a smoky edge? Add a pinch of smoked paprika or black pepper.
These spicy Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts are ideal for adult snack trays or savory-sweet gift bags.
🍁 Maple Vanilla Holiday Blend
Create a cozier, deeper flavor profile by swapping the granulated sugar with maple sugar or light brown sugar.
- Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the whipped egg whites.
- Sprinkle in nutmeg or clove for added warmth.
Pair these warm-toned nuts with coffee, hot cocoa, or a holiday brunch spread.
🍫 Cocoa Crunch Delight
Add a hint of chocolate to your candied nuts for an indulgent upgrade.
- Once baked and cooled, toss them in unsweetened cocoa powder.
- For more decadence, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top and let it harden.
This chocolate-infused version of Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts is perfect for dessert platters or gourmet gifts.
🥥 Tropical Vibes
Bring a bright, island-style twist to your snack bowl.
- Replace cinnamon with ground ginger for a zingy flavor.
- Mix in shredded coconut before baking.
- Use macadamia nuts or cashews for a buttery tropical finish.
A creative take on the original that works great year-round — not just during the holidays.
✅ Keto-Friendly Alternative
For a low-carb version, keep the texture and flavor while swapping the sweetener:
- Use erythritol or monk fruit in place of sugar (1:1 ratio).
- Monitor baking closely — sugar-free substitutes may brown faster.
Even on keto, you can still enjoy a batch of Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts without the sugar crash.
🔁 Final Thought
No matter which direction you take, these variations prove that Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts are endlessly adaptable — making them a snack you’ll want to recreate all year long.
🍽️ Serving Ideas: More Than Just a Snack
While grabbing a handful of Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts straight from the jar is totally satisfying, there are so many other ways to enjoy them. Their sweet crunch and warm spice make them a versatile addition to dishes, gifts, and gatherings — from casual movie nights to elegant charcuterie boards.
🎁 1. Holiday Gift Jars
Transform your candied nuts into thoughtful, budget-friendly gifts.
- Fill small mason jars, cellophane bags, or festive tins and tie with ribbon or twine.
- Add a custom tag with a handwritten note or serving suggestion.
They’re shelf-stable for up to 2–3 weeks, making them ideal for holiday prep.
🧀 2. Charcuterie Board Star
Sweet meets savory when you add these candied nuts to a cheese and meat board.
- Pair with sharp cheddar, creamy brie, or tangy goat cheese.
- They add contrast and crunch — plus a festive touch of holiday flair.
🥗 3. Sweet & Crunchy Salad Topper
Sprinkle Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts over salads for an instant upgrade.
- Especially delicious with arugula, cranberries, blue cheese, or apple slices.
- Adds texture, sweetness, and visual appeal to any seasonal salad.
🍦 4. Dessert Enhancer
Use them to elevate your desserts in seconds. Try them on:
- Ice cream or gelato
- Yogurt parfaits
- Pies, crisps, or cobblers
Their crunchy texture and cinnamon-sugar coating pair beautifully with creamy or fruity sweets.
🛋️ 5. Snack Bowl Staple
Set out a bowl during movie night, game day, or holiday parties — they’ll disappear fast.
- Combine with popcorn and chocolate for a sweet-salty snack mix.
- Great for grazing tables and cozy gatherings.
🎉 6. Party Favor or Wedding Treat
Place small portions in mini boxes, pouches, or jars as party or wedding favors.
- Affordable and homemade always wins hearts.
- Customize the look to fit any theme or color palette.
🏕️ 7. Trail Mix Upgrade
Create your own gourmet mix with dried fruit, dark chocolate, and Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts.
- Perfect for gifting, travel, or a protein-packed mid-day snack.
- Add granola or coconut flakes for extra crunch.
✅ Bonus: Keep a Jar Handy
Sometimes the best way to enjoy these is the simplest — keep a jar on your counter.
- Ideal for guests, after-dinner nibbles, or a quick sweet fix.
✅ Final Note
Whether you’re dressing up a cheese board, garnishing dessert, or prepping DIY gifts, Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts are the ultimate multitasking treat — festive, flavorful, and endlessly useful.
🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best things about Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts is how well they keep. Whether you’re prepping for the holidays, making them ahead for gifts, or simply trying to stretch out your snack stash, proper storage ensures they stay crunchy and crave-worthy for weeks.
🏡 Room Temperature Storage
After cooling completely, store your candied nuts in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Use glass jars, tins, or resealable bags.
- Keep them away from moisture and heat sources (like stovetops or sunny windows).
Shelf life: Up to 3 weeks with perfect texture and flavor.
❄️ Can You Refrigerate Candied Nuts?
It’s not necessary — and can actually make them go soft. The fridge introduces humidity, which can cause the sugar coating to get sticky.
✅ Stick to a cool, dry pantry for best results.
🧊 Can You Freeze Them?
Yes — and it works surprisingly well.
- Spread cooled nuts in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm.
- Transfer to a freezer-safe zip-top bag or container.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
To serve, let them come to room temperature uncovered to preserve crispness. Avoid thawing in a sealed bag (moisture buildup = soggy nuts).
⏱️ Make-Ahead for Gifting or Events
These nuts are ideal for holiday prep or party planning.
- Make up to 2 weeks ahead for gift jars.
- For events, bake them a few days early and store in decorative airtight containers.
🎁 They’re the kind of treat that tastes just as good on Day 10 as Day 1 — if they last that long!
🔁 Refreshing Stale Nuts
If your Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts lose some crunch, refresh them in a 250°F oven for 5–10 minutes on a lined baking sheet. Let cool completely before eating.
Read Also: Birthday Cake Cinnamon Rolls – 7 Irresistible Funfetti Tips!
❓FAQs About Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts
If you’re planning to make Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts for the first time — or just want to perfect your technique — this FAQ section answers the most common questions. From substitutions to storage to creative twists, we’ve got everything you need to know.
1. Can I use only one type of nut in my candied nut recipe?
Yes! While this recipe combines pecans and almonds, you can use just one. Try all almonds or all pecans — both make delicious Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts. You can also substitute walnuts, cashews, or even hazelnuts for variety.
2. What’s the best egg white substitute for candied nuts?
To make Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts without eggs, use aquafaba — the liquid from canned chickpeas. Use 2 tablespoons per egg white and whip until stiff peaks form, just like you would with traditional egg whites.
3. Can I make sugar-free cinnamon sugar candied nuts?
Absolutely. To make sugar-free Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts, substitute the granulated sugar with erythritol or monk fruit sweetener. Just monitor baking time closely, as sugar-free alternatives may brown more quickly.
4. Why are my candied nuts sticky instead of crunchy?
Sticky or soft Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts usually mean they weren’t cooled fully before storage or were exposed to moisture. To fix this, re-bake them at 250°F for 5–10 minutes and cool completely before sealing.
5. How long do Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts last?
When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts stay fresh and crunchy for up to 3 weeks. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 2 months.
6. Can I double or halve this candied nuts recipe?
Yes, the recipe is easy to scale. Whether you’re making a small batch or doubling for gifts, just make sure to use large enough bowls and baking trays. Stir every 15 minutes during baking for best results.
7. Are cinnamon sugar candied nuts gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe for Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts is naturally gluten-free, provided all ingredients (especially spice blends or sugar alternatives) are certified gluten-free.
8. What spices can I add to change the flavor?
You can easily adjust the flavor of Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts by adding nutmeg, clove, ginger, or even pumpkin pie spice. A splash of vanilla extract also adds great depth.
9. Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?
Definitely. Swapping in brown sugar gives your Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts a deeper, caramel-like flavor thanks to the molasses. You can use it in place of all or part of the white sugar.
10. Can I make candied nuts in an air fryer?
While it’s trickier, you can air fry Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts. Cook at 280°F for 10–15 minutes, shaking the basket often. Just be cautious — the sugar coating can burn more quickly in an air fryer.
🎉 Conclusion: Make the Season Sweeter
There’s something truly magical about the smell of cinnamon and sugar wafting through the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts that are not only addictive and delicious but also filled with nostalgic holiday charm.
Whether you’re making a batch to gift, serving them at your next party, or just treating yourself to a sweet snack, this recipe is the perfect blend of simplicity and flavor. Plus, with all the variations, storage tips, and serving ideas shared above, you’re ready to make these candied nuts your own — any time of year.
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Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts aren’t just a snack — they’re a tradition in the making.
Read Also: Classic Spritz Cookies Recipe: 7 Secrets to Buttery Holiday Perfection
Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Candied Nuts: 7 Delightful Reasons to Make Them
- Total Time: 1 hour (defaulted to prep + cook)
- Yield: Approximately 6 cups 1x
Description
A nostalgic, easy-to-make holiday treat that fills your home with the sweet, spiced aroma of cinnamon sugar. This recipe combines pecans and almonds coated in a crispy egg-white glaze, then baked until golden and irresistibly crunchy. Perfect as a cozy snack, thoughtful gift, or festive party addition!
Ingredients
5 cups unsalted pecan halves
1 cup unsalted whole almonds
2 egg whites
2 tablespoons water
2 cups granulated sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
2 teaspoons salt
Instructions
Preheat oven to 300°F (149°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats and lightly coat with non-stick spray.
In a large bowl, mix pecans and almonds; set aside.
In a separate bowl, beat egg whites with water on medium-high until stiff peaks form (about 4–5 minutes).
Gently fold in sugar, cinnamon, and salt until just combined.
Pour the sugar mixture over the nuts and stir until every nut is completely coated.
Spread the nuts evenly on the prepared baking sheets in a single layer.
Bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes, until golden and fragrant.
Let cool completely. The nuts will crisp up as they cool — then enjoy, store, or gift!
Notes
Egg white substitutes: Use 2 tbsp aquafaba per egg white for a vegan alternative.
Sugar alternatives: Try coconut sugar, maple sugar, or low-carb sweeteners like erythritol — adjust baking time as needed.
Optional spice add-ins: nutmeg, clove, pumpkin pie spice, or a pinch of cayenne for heat.
Storage tip: Cool completely before storing to retain crispness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Snack / Holiday Treat
- Method: Oven Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ¼ cup (~30 g)
- Calories: ~180 kcal
- Sugar: ~10 g
- Sodium: ~5 mg
- Fat: ~15 g
- Saturated Fat: ~2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~13 g
- Trans Fat: –
- Carbohydrates: ~13 g
- Fiber: ~2 g
- Protein: ~2 g
- Cholesterol: –