Ensure the pecan halves are clean and dry. This helps the egg white mixture adhere better, resulting in a more evenly coated pecan.
Whisk the Egg White and Vanilla:
In a large bowl, vigorously whisk the egg white and vanilla extract until frothy. The frothiness helps the sugar and cinnamon stick to the pecans evenly.
Add the pecan halves to the egg white mixture. Gently toss them until they are all evenly coated. This step is crucial for ensuring each pecan gets a nice glaze.
In a separate bowl, combine the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt. Mix these dry ingredients well to ensure the cinnamon and sugar are evenly distributed.
Transfer the coated pecans into the sugar mixture. Toss them until all the pecans are evenly covered with the cinnamon-sugar mix. Make sure there are no wet spots.
Preheat your air fryer to 300°F (150°C). Some air fryers have a preheat setting; if yours does not, simply let it run at 300°F for about 5 minutes before adding the pecans.
Place a single layer of coated pecans in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to promote even cooking. Depending on your air fryer's size and model, you may need to adjust the cooking time.
Once the pecans are done, spread them out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a cooling rack. This will stop the cooking process and allow them to cool evenly. They will continue to crisp up as they cool.
Store the cooled cinnamon pecans in an airtight container at room temperature. They should last for up to two weeks, making them a great make-ahead snack for holidays or as a tasty addition to salads and desserts.