Description
Butter pecan cookies are a perfect blend of buttery richness, warm spices, and nutty pecan goodness. With their soft centers and slightly crisp edges, these cookies are an ideal choice for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, gifting a treat, or enjoying them with your coffee, these cookies deliver delightful flavor in every bite.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for:
- Pecan Lovers: If you adore the nutty flavor of pecans, these cookies will be your new favorite.
- Holiday Bakers: These cookies are a festive addition to your holiday cookie platter.
- Home Bakers: Simple steps make it a great recipe for beginners and seasoned bakers alike.
Why It’s Great
- Buttery and Rich: Made with real butter for a luxurious flavor.
- Perfect Texture: Soft and chewy with a touch of crunch from the pecans.
- Customizable: Add chocolate chips or caramel drizzle for a twist.
- Stays Fresh: Tastes just as good a few days later, making it ideal for make-ahead treats.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ¾ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
Wet Ingredients:
- 2 sticks (1 cup) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 cup dark brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs plus 1 egg yolk, at room temperature
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
Add-ins and Toppings:
- 1 ¼ cups pecan halves, coarsely chopped
- 16 pecan halves (for topping)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls (medium and large)
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Cookie scoop or spoon
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheets
- Wire cooling rack
Directions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line two baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Combine the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cornstarch, and cinnamon. Set aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugars
- In a large bowl, cream the butter, dark brown sugar, and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla
- Beat in the eggs and egg yolk one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated.
- Stir in the vanilla extract for a burst of flavor.
5. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
6. Fold in Pecans
- Gently fold the chopped pecans into the dough, ensuring even distribution.
7. Shape the Cookies
- Use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Press a pecan half onto the top of each cookie for a decorative finish.
8. Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Storage
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Freezer: Freeze baked cookies in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
FAQ
1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to ¼ tsp to balance the flavors.
2. Can I substitute other nuts for pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds are great alternatives.
3. How do I keep the cookies soft?
Store with a slice of bread in the container to maintain moisture.
Conclusion
Butter pecan cookies are a classic dessert that combines rich buttery flavor with crunchy pecans for the ultimate treat. Easy to make and universally loved, they’re a perfect choice for holidays, special occasions, or everyday indulgence.
Bake a batch today and share the nutty joy with your loved ones!
