Combine the sugar, cinnamon, salt, vanilla, and water, and cook over medium-high heat until the sugar dissolves.
Once the syrup is bubbling, mix the pecans into the syrup and cook, stirring for 2 to 3 minutes.
Spread the nuts over a parchment paper-lined sheet pan. Allow the nuts to cool completely, about 20 minutes, before you store them in an airtight container at room temperature.