Slow Cooker Candied Cinnamon Pecans

Published on: November 24, 2025

Bowl of slow cooker candied cinnamon pecans topped with spices

Experience the magic of homemade Slow Cooker Candied Cinnamon Pecans that fill your kitchen with the warm, inviting aromas of the holiday season. These irresistible treats transform simple pecans into sweet, crunchy clusters coated in a glossy, caramelized cinnamon-sugar glaze that’s absolutely addictive. Perfect for gifting, parties, or cozy evenings by the fire, these candied cinnamon pecans offer that perfect balance of sweet and spicy that will have everyone asking for the recipe.

Table of Contents

A Note from Our Kitchen

“After years of perfecting sweet snack recipes, I can confidently say these Slow Cooker Candied Cinnamon Pecans are a game-changer. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop deeply while creating that perfect crisp texture without the risk of burning. This method ensures every pecan gets evenly coated in that beautiful cinnamon-sugar glaze that makes these so special.” – Chef Michael, Meta Savory

Why You’ll Love These Candied Cinnamon Pecans

Effortless Preparation: Just mix and let your slow cooker do the work – no constant stirring or worrying about burning
Perfect for Gifting: These make beautiful homemade gifts that everyone will appreciate
Versatile Usage: Enjoy as snacks, salad toppers, cheese board additions, or dessert garnishes
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare days in advance for stress-free entertaining

Ingredients for Perfect Candied Pecans

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose & Notes
Pecan halves	4 cups	Provides the base nut with rich, buttery flavor
Brown sugar	1 cup	Creatures deep caramel notes and moisture
Granulated sugar	1/2 cup	Adds crispness and additional sweetness
Ground cinnamon	2 teaspoons	Delivers warm, spicy flavor throughout
Vanilla extract	1 teaspoon	Enhances depth and aroma of the coating
Water	1/4 cup	Helps create the syrupy coating
Salt	1/2 teaspoon	Balances sweetness and enhances flavors

Ingredient Notes: For a different twist, try using walnuts or almonds. For dietary needs, coconut sugar works well as a brown sugar substitute, and you can omit the vanilla for a pure cinnamon flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture

In your slow cooker, combine the brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, water, and salt. Stir until the mixture is well blended and resembles a fragrant, syrupy base for your candied cinnamon pecans.

2. Coat the Pecans

Add the pecan halves to the slow cooker and stir thoroughly until every pecan is evenly coated with the cinnamon-sugar mixture. The sticky syrup should cling to all surfaces of the nuts.

3. Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover and cook on LOW heat for 2-3 hours, stirring every 30 minutes. You’ll notice the pecans transforming as they absorb the sweetness and begin to caramelize into beautiful candied cinnamon pecans.

4. Cool and Separate

Once cooked, immediately spread the pecans in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. This prevents sticking and allows them to cool into individual, crunchy pieces.

5. Store and Enjoy

After completely cooled, break apart any clusters and transfer to an airtight container. Your homemade Slow Cooker Candied Cinnamon Pecans are ready to enjoy!

Chef’s Pro Tips for Success

Quality Matters: Use fresh, high-quality pecans for the best flavor and texture
Stir Regularly: Don’t skip the 30-minute stirs – this ensures even coating and prevents burning
Test for Doneness: Pecans should feel dry and crisp when done – if sticky, cook a bit longer
Add Flavor Twists: Experiment with orange zest, cayenne pepper, or pumpkin pie spice for variations

Creative Variations to Try

Variation	Ingredients to Add/Change	Flavor Profile
Spicy Maple	Replace 1/4 cup sugar with maple syrup, add 1/4 tsp cayenne	Sweet with a warm, spicy kick
Orange Spice	Add 1 tbsp orange zest + 1/2 tsp nutmeg	Bright, citrusy with warm spices
Pumpkin Spice	Use pumpkin pie spice instead of cinnamon	Classic fall flavor combination
Chocolate Drizzle	Drizzle with melted chocolate after cooling	Decadent dessert-style treat

Dietary Adaptations

Dietary Need	Substitutions	Notes
Vegan	Use certified vegan sugars	Most sugars are vegan, but some are processed with bone char
Lower Sugar	Reduce sugar by 1/4 and add sugar-free maple syrup	Still delicious with less sweetness
Nut-Free	Use pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds	Provides similar crunch without nuts

Storage & Gifting Guide

These candied cinnamon pecans store beautifully! Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. They make wonderful gifts – package in decorative jars or bags with ribbon for a personal touch.

Perfect Pairing Suggestions

Beverages: Hot apple cider, spiced chai tea, or rich hot chocolate
Cheese Boards: Pair with sharp cheddar, brie, or blue cheese
Salads: Sprinkle over autumn salads with apples and goat cheese
Desserts: Top ice cream, yogurt, or baked apples

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Per 1/4 Cup Serving	Daily Value %
Calories	180 kcal	9%
Total Fat	8g	10%
Carbohydrates	24g	8%
Sugar	14g	16%
Protein	3g	6%
Fiber	1g	4%

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sticky Pecans: If pecans remain sticky after cooling, return to slow cooker for additional 30 minutes
Clumping: Break apart clusters while still slightly warm for best results
Burnt Taste: Ensure you’re cooking on LOW heat and stirring regularly
Uneven Coating: Make sure to stir thoroughly during the first mixing step

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do homemade candied pecans last?

Properly stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these candied cinnamon pecans will stay fresh and crunchy for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months.

Can I make these in the oven instead?

Yes, you can bake them at 300°F for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through. However, the slow cooker method provides more even heating and requires less attention.

What’s the best way to package these for gifts?

Use decorative mason jars, cellophane bags tied with ribbon, or festive tins. Include a handwritten label with storage instructions for a personal touch.

Can I use other types of nuts?

Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or cashews all work beautifully. Adjust cooking time slightly based on the nut size and density.

Why are my pecans sticking together?

This usually happens if they weren’t spread in a single layer to cool. Break them apart while still slightly warm, or if already cooled, gently separate with your hands.

Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?

Yes, you can reduce the sugar by up to 1/4, but the coating may be less crisp and the pecans might not store as long.

Final Thoughts

These Slow Cooker Candied Cinnamon Pecans are more than just a snack – they’re a homemade gift of love that captures the essence of the season in every crunchy bite. Whether you’re making them for holiday gatherings, thoughtful gifts, or simply to enjoy with your family, this recipe delivers perfect results every time. The slow cooker method takes the guesswork out of candy-making and fills your home with that magical cinnamon scent we all associate with happy memories.

We hope these become a new tradition in your home! For more delicious slow cooker treats and holiday recipes, explore our complete collection of Dessert Recipes and Holiday Favorites.

Ready to create these irresistible treats? Your kitchen is about to smell amazing, and you’ll have the perfect homemade gift or snack that everyone will love!