If the holidays had a scent, it would be these Gingersnap Pecans baking in the oven. Warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cloves mingle with molasses and brown sugar to create a crispy, sweet coating on buttery pecans that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering, gifting homemade treats, or just craving something seasonal and snackable, these spiced pecans are your answer.

Perfectly crunchy with all the nostalgic flavors of gingerbread cookies, these pecans are a must-have for your winter spread—and yes, they’re addictive in the best way possible.

Gingersnap Pecans

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

All the Gingerbread Vibes: Think cozy, spicy, sweet—like your favorite gingersnap cookie in nut form.
Super Easy to Make: Just stir, coat, and bake—no fancy tools or techniques needed.
Big Batch: Makes enough to feed a crowd or fill several gift jars.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Stores beautifully for a week (if they last that long).
Versatile: Perfect for parties, charcuterie boards, lunchbox treats, or even salad toppers.

Tip: You can find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

Ingredients

2 lbs pecans (about 4–6 cups depending on size)
2 teaspoons molasses
2 cups light brown sugar
2 teaspoons ground ginger
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
1/4 cup water

Instructions

1. Prep the Oven

Preheat your oven to 200°F. Line a baking sheet with a silicone mat or foil (if using foil, be sure to spray it with non-stick spray).

2. Make the Spice Coating

In a large bowl, combine the molasses, brown sugar, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, white pepper, and water. Stir until smooth and well blended.

3. Coat the Pecans

Add the pecans to the bowl and stir thoroughly to coat them evenly in the sticky, spiced mixture. Yes, it’s messy—but that’s half the fun.

4. Bake Low and Slow

Spread the pecans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake at 200°F for 1 hour, stirring every 20 minutes to ensure even coating and crispness.

5. Cool and Store

Remove from the oven and let the pecans cool completely on the pan. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container for up to one week.

Variations

Add Orange Zest: For a citrusy twist that complements the spices.
Make it Spicier: Add a pinch of cayenne for a sweet-and-spicy kick.
Use Mixed Nuts: Almonds and cashews work well too.
Vegan Version: This recipe is already vegan as written!
Holiday Add-Ins: Add dried cranberries after baking for a festive mix.

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 3 weeks.

Freezing: Freeze in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Let come to room temp before serving.

Reheating: Not needed! These are best enjoyed at room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dark brown sugar instead of light?

Yes, dark brown sugar will give you an even richer molasses flavor.

Are these pecans spicy?

They have a warm spice from ginger and cloves, but they’re not hot. Want heat? Add a pinch of cayenne.

Can I make a smaller batch?

Absolutely—just halve the ingredients and keep the baking time the same.

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

Use mason jars, cellophane bags, or decorative tins. Don’t forget a ribbon and a tag!

Can I toast the pecans first?

No need—they’ll get perfectly toasty while baking with the sugar coating.

What kind of molasses should I use?

Regular or mild unsulfured molasses works best. Avoid blackstrap—it’s too bitter.

Do I need a silicone baking mat?

It helps for easy cleanup, but well-greased foil or parchment will also work.

Can I use other types of nuts?

Yes! Walnuts, almonds, or cashews all work great with this coating.

Are these gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Always double-check labels.

Can I use less sugar?

Reducing the sugar will affect the texture and stickiness of the coating. It’s not recommended for this recipe.

Conclusion

Whether you’re prepping for a party, filling up a holiday gift basket, or simply looking for something delightfully spiced to snack on, these Gingersnap Pecans are a seasonal superstar. Warm, crunchy, and deeply flavorful, they’re everything you love about gingerbread—just with a nutty twist. Make a batch, share the love, and don’t be surprised if people ask for the recipe!