There’s something irresistibly comforting about a sweet, crunchy snack that sparks joy with every bite. Picture this: the gentle aroma of warm cinnamon swirling through your kitchen as you embark on a delightful culinary journey. My discovery of Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Chickpeas was completely unexpected; it all started on a quiet afternoon when I found a can of chickpeas sitting lonely in my pantry. With nothing but a bit of olive oil, sugar, and spices, I whipped up what would become my go-to snack for cozy evenings and impromptu gatherings.
These roasted chickpeas are a game changer! They perfectly balance sweet and savory, making them the ideal alternative to fast food munchies. Whether you’re enjoying a movie night at home, preparing for a busy week ahead, or simply sharing a tasty treat with loved ones, these crispy delights are versatile enough to fit any occasion. In just 40 minutes, you can transform simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing favorite that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Let’s dive into this simple yet mouthwatering recipe that’s bound to be a hit!
Why You'll Love This Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Chickpeas
- These Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Chickpeas are incredibly easy to make, requiring just 10 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of roasting.
- The delightful combination of sweet cinnamon and sugar gives these chickpeas an irresistible flavor that will make your taste buds dance.
- Their crispy texture and appealing golden color make them visually enticing, perfect for serving at gatherings or enjoying as a solo snack.
- Moreover, they’re highly versatile and can be enjoyed as a sweet treat, added to salads, or even used as a topping for yogurt, making them a fantastic addition to any meal or occasion.
Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Chickpeas Ingredients
• Deliciously simple ingredients for your next snack!
For the Chickpeas
- Chickpeas – canned chickpeas provide a quick and easy base for this crunchy treat.
- Olive Oil – a tablespoon to coat the chickpeas for perfect crispiness.
For the Sweet Coating
- Brown Sugar – two tablespoons for a rich flavor that pairs beautifully with cinnamon.
- Ground Cinnamon – one teaspoon to create that comforting, warm essence.
- Vanilla Extract – enhances the sweetness and adds a lovely aroma.
- Salt – a pinch to balance the sweetness and elevate the flavor of your Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Chickpeas.
How to Make Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Chickpeas
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Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
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Drain and Rinse: Carefully drain and rinse the chickpeas under cold water. Pat them dry using a clean towel or paper towels; this will help them get crispy during roasting.
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Toss with Oil: In a mixing bowl, place the chickpeas and drizzle with olive oil. Toss gently until every chickpea is beautifully coated in oil so they roast evenly.
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Spread Evenly: Lay the chickpeas on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, making sure they aren’t overcrowded. Roast them in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes. Shake the pan every 10 minutes to ensure even crisping and the perfect golden color.
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Sweeten Up: Once the chickpeas are out of the oven and hot, quickly toss them with brown sugar, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until they’re thoroughly coated in that delightful sweet topping.
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Cool and Store: Let your Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Chickpeas cool completely on the baking tray. Once cool, transfer them to an airtight container for enjoying later.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of additional cinnamon for a delightful touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Chickpeas?
Sweet treats can shine even brighter when paired with the right companions. Create a delightful snack spread that tantalizes your taste buds and satisfies your cravings.
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Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layering these chickpeas with Greek yogurt and fresh fruits creates a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A zesty blend of citrus fruits complements the sweetness of the roasted chickpeas beautifully, making for a refreshing side.
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Nutty Granola: The crunch of granola mixes well with the chickpeas, adding an extra layer of texture and heartiness to your snack.
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Spiced Apple Slices: The warm notes of cinnamon in apple slices mirror the roasted chickpeas’ flavor, making them a cozy pairing.
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Herbal Tea: Sipping on calming herbal tea can brighten your snack time, allowing the cinnamon’s warmth to linger on your palate.
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Dark Chocolate Squares: A few pieces of rich dark chocolate enhance the sweet experience, offering a decadent finish to your delightful duo.
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Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese to introduce a savory element that beautifully contrasts with the sweetness of the chickpeas.
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Caramel Dip: For an indulgent twist, serve these chickpeas with a warm caramel dip for dunking, satisfying any sweet cravings.
Enjoy these pairings to elevate your snack experience with Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Chickpeas!
Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Chickpeas Variations
Feel free to customize your Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Chickpeas with these exciting twists! Each suggestion adds a unique flair that will surely delight your taste buds.
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Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of cayenne or chili powder to the chickpeas before roasting for a delightful sweet-and-spicy combo.
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Nutty Delight: Toss in chopped nuts or seeds, like almonds or sunflower seeds, after roasting for an added crunch and richness. The variety of textures brings a lovely contrast to the crunchy chickpeas.
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Maple Flavor: Swap brown sugar for maple syrup, drizzling it over hot chickpeas after roasting for a natural sweetness bursting with flavor. This approach adds a beautiful maple essence that will warm your heart.
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Cocoa Twist: Mix in a tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder along with the sugar and cinnamon for a chocolatey take on this classic recipe. The deep chocolate notes pair wonderfully with the warm spices.
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Coconut Sugar: Replace brown sugar with coconut sugar for a caramel-like flavor and a hint of tropical essence. This swap brings a whole new layer of flavor while keeping it all natural.
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Zesty Citrus: Add the zest of an orange or lemon before roasting to brighten the flavors of the chickpeas. The citrus notes uplift the sweetness of cinnamon and sugar, adding a refreshing twist.
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Vanilla Bean: For a more intense vanilla flavor, use a scrap of fresh vanilla bean instead of extract. This tiny addition creates a luxurious, aromatic experience.
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Sweet & Savory Medley: Toss in a pinch of smoked paprika along with the cinnamon for a surprising savory backdrop. The fusion of sweet and smoky will have everyone asking for more!
How to Store and Freeze Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Chickpeas
Airtight Container: Keep your Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Chickpeas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their crunch.
Fridge: While refrigeration isn’t recommended due to potential sogginess, you can store them in the fridge for a maximum of 1 week if needed.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the roasted chickpeas in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat in the oven to regain crispiness.
Reheating: To enjoy your leftover chickpeas, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their delightful crunch.
Make Ahead Options
These Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Chickpeas are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the chickpeas by draining, rinsing, and drying them up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the dried chickpeas in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to roast them. When it’s time to enjoy this delicious snack, just toss the prepped chickpeas with olive oil and roast them as directed. Remember to coat them in the sweet cinnamon mixture immediately after roasting for that irresistible flavor. This make-ahead method ensures you have a crunchy treat on hand with minimal effort!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Chickpeas, ensure to drain and rinse your chickpeas thoroughly to remove excess starch, which can prevent crispiness.
- When tossing the chickpeas with olive oil, make sure they are evenly coated to achieve that perfect crunch while roasting.
- Keep an eye on the chickpeas during the last few minutes of roasting, as they can quickly go from golden to burnt.
- Once you remove them from the oven, toss them immediately with the sweet mixture to ensure it adheres well while they are still hot.
Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Chickpeas Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe chickpeas?
Absolutely! For best results, choose canned chickpeas that are stored in a low-sodium liquid. Look for cans without dents or bulges, as these may indicate spoilage. Draining and rinsing them thoroughly helps remove excess sodium and improves flavor.
What is the best way to store cooked chickpeas?
You can keep your Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Chickpeas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their delightful crunch. If they start losing their crispiness, try reheating them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes!
Can I freeze Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Chickpeas?
Absolutely! For longer storage, freeze the roasted chickpeas in an airtight container or a resealable freezer bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge again, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat them in the oven for that lovely crunch.
What if my chickpeas turn out soggy?
Very! If your chickpeas are soggy, it might be due to not drying them thoroughly after rinsing. Ensure they’re well-patted dry, and during roasting, keep an eye on them. If they don’t crisp up, consider roasting them a bit longer but check frequently to avoid burning.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Of course! Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Chickpeas are naturally gluten-free and vegan, making them a versatile snack for many dietary preferences. However, if you’re preparing these for guests, make sure to ask about allergies related to specific ingredients like chickpeas and nuts, particularly if you decide to top them with nuts for extra crunch!
How can I make my Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Chickpeas even sweeter?
If you want an extra touch of sweetness, consider adding a drizzle of honey or maple syrup right after roasting. Just toss the hot chickpeas with your desired sweetener and let them cool, as this will give them a delightful glaze. You can also add a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an additional sweet kick!
Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Chickpeas
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Drain and rinse the chickpeas under cold water; pat them dry.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chickpeas and olive oil, tossing until coated.
- Spread the chickpeas on the baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 25–30 minutes, shaking every 10 minutes.
- Toss the hot chickpeas with brown sugar, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt until evenly coated.
- Let cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container for storage.
