Gingersnap Pecans

why make this recipe

Gingersnap Pecans are a fast, crowd-pleasing snack with warm spice and crisp, caramelized sweetness. They’re perfect for holiday gift jars, party bowls, or a cozy treat alongside coffee or mulled wine. This recipe is simple, uses pantry staples, and scales easily for gifting or entertaining.

introduction

These Gingersnap Pecans capture the spicy-sweet profile of gingersnap cookies in nut form: molasses and brown sugar cling to toasted pecans, with ginger and cinnamon rounding out the flavor. The result is crunchy, fragrant nuts that feel a bit nostalgic and a bit festive — great for seasonal baking tables or an everyday snack with character.

how to make Gingersnap Pecans

Making these pecans is straightforward: stir the wet and dry seasonings together, toss the pecans to coat, and bake briefly until golden and fragrant. The key is even coating and watching closely in the last few minutes so the sugar doesn’t burn. After cooling, the coating crisps up for a shiny, snappy bite.

Ingredients :

• 2 lbs pecans
• 2 teaspoons molasses
• 2 cups light brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Directions :

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the molasses, brown sugar, ground ginger, and ground cinnamon.
3. Add the pecans to the mixture and stir until they are well coated.
4. Spread the pecans in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are golden and fragrant.
6. Allow them to cool completely before serving or packaging them for gifts.

how to serve Gingersnap Pecans

Serve them warm or at room temperature. Ideas:

• As a snack bowl at parties or movie nights.
• On a cheese board alongside aged cheddar or goat cheese.
• Tossed into salads for crunch (paired with roasted squash, pomegranate seeds, and a maple vinaigrette).
• Chopped over ice cream or spiced yogurt.
• Packaged in jars or cellophane bags as homemade gifts.

how to store Gingersnap Pecans

Cool completely, then store in an airtight container. At room temperature they keep well for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To refresh crispness, warm briefly in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–8 minutes.

tips to make Gingersnap Pecans

• Spread in a single layer so nuts toast evenly; use two sheets if needed.
• Stir halfway through baking to prevent hot spots and ensure even caramelization.
• Watch the last few minutes closely — sugar can go from golden to burnt quickly.
• Use parchment or a silicone mat for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
• Adjust ginger and cinnamon to taste; add a pinch of nutmeg for depth.
• If coating seems dry, add a tiny splash more molasses or a teaspoon of water to help the sugar adhere.

variation (if any)

• Spicy: Add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne for a warming kick.
• Citrus: Grate a little orange zest into the sugar mix for brightness.
• Salty-sweet: Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the nuts as they cool.
• Different sugars: Swap dark brown sugar for deeper molasses flavor, or use coconut sugar for a different note.
• Candied shell: For a shinier candied coating, whisk a lightly beaten egg white with a tablespoon of water, toss pecans in it, then sugar and spices before baking (note: egg white changes texture and isn’t vegan).

FAQ

Q: Are these gluten-free?
A: Yes — the listed ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Always check labels if using processed ingredients, especially brown sugar blends.

Q: Can I make these vegan?
A: The basic recipe is vegan (molasses and brown sugar are plant-based). Some brown sugars are processed with bone char — choose certified vegan sugar if needed.

Q: Can I use other nuts?
A: Yes — almonds, walnuts, or cashews work well; adjust bake time slightly for nut size.

Q: How do I prevent sticking?
A: Ensure even coating and use parchment or a silicone mat. Let nuts cool completely before moving them; the coating hardens as they cool.

Conclusion

For more ideas and a similar take on this classic spiced nut, see Gingersnap Pecans – Take Two Tapas. If you want a version styled specifically for gifting with extra shine and presentation tips, check out Gingersnap Roasted Candied Pecans (easy gift idea!) – Snappy Gourmet.