Butter Pecan Cookies

When I think of the perfect treat to bring joy to any gathering, Butter Pecan Cookies instantly come to mind. These cookies have a way of evoking nostalgia, thanks to the rich, buttery flavor combined with the delightful crunch of pecans. I remember the first time I baked them; the sweet aroma wafting through the kitchen felt like a warm hug on a chilly day. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a festive celebration, these cookies are an absolute hit! The best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make and even easier to devour.

What to Buy for Butter Pecan Cookies

When embarking on the delightful journey of baking Butter Pecan Cookies, the quality of your ingredients makes all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of flavor and texture. From the rich buttery base to the crunchy pecans, every ingredient contributes to the cookie’s overall appeal.

• 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans: These provide a nutty flavor and crunchy texture, essential for the classic taste.
• 1 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and a smooth mouthfeel.
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Contributes to the cookie’s sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla: A flavor enhancer that rounds out the sweetness.
• 1 cup unsalted butter: The star ingredient that makes these cookies irresistibly buttery.
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and the base for your cookies.
• 2 tablespoons corn starch: Helps achieve a soft and tender texture.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: A leavening agent that gives the cookies a lightness.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• 1/2 cup white granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and crispiness.
• 1 cup dark brown sugar: For added moisture and depth of flavor.
• 2 large eggs at room temperature: Binds the ingredients and contributes to the cookie’s richness.
• 1 egg yolk: Adds moisture and richness, resulting in a chewy texture.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 1/3 cup pecan halves: For decoration and additional crunch.

Step by Step Guide for Butter Pecan Cookies

Making Butter Pecan Cookies is a fun and rewarding process that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas. Follow these steps closely to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time. Let’s dive into the details!

1. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped pecans, brown sugar, and butter for about 3 to 4 minutes, until lightly toasted. This step brings out the most wonderful flavors. Make sure to keep an eye on them to prevent burning. Once they’re golden brown and fragrant, set them aside to cool, and stir in the vanilla.
2. Next, bring the butter to a boil in the skillet over medium-high heat. Stir frequently, allowing the solid particles at the bottom to turn golden brown. This browning adds a nutty flavor and a beautiful color to your cookies. Be careful not to let it burn! Immediately pour the mixture into a large mixing bowl and cool slightly for about 10 minutes.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, corn starch, and baking soda. This mixture will be your dry ingredients, and whisking helps to combine everything evenly. Set this aside.
4. Now, combine the cooled, browned butter with the sugars in the large bowl. Whisk them together until well blended. Make sure to incorporate air into the mixture; it should look creamy and smooth. Then whisk in the vanilla, eggs, and egg yolk until fully combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the butter mixture. Mix gently until everything is well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of your cookies. You want a thick, sticky dough.
6. Finally, stir in the sautéed pecans. This adds an incredible crunch and flavor to each cookie. Once everything is mixed, cover the mixture with plastic wrap, pressing the plastic down onto the dough’s surface. Chill for at least 3 hours or up to 3 days. Chilling helps to develop the flavors and makes the cookies easier to handle.
7. Before baking, let the chilled dough sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will make it a bit softer and easier to roll.
8. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. It’s important to have your oven ready before you start baking to ensure even cooking.
9. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents the cookies from sticking and makes for an easy cleanup.
10. Roll the dough into balls, about three tablespoons each, and place them 2 inches apart onto the prepared baking sheet. This allows them room to spread as they bake.
11. Bake on the middle rack until the edges are set and just beginning to turn golden brown, about 9 to 12 minutes. Be careful not to overbake, as they will continue to cook slightly once removed from the oven.
12. As soon as you take the cookies out, gently press a pecan halve into the center of each cookie. This step adds a lovely visual touch and even more flavor.
13. Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. This resting period helps them firm up a bit. Store them in an airtight container for up to 5 days, though they likely won’t last that long!

Substitutions and Tips

If you’re looking to make the most of your Butter Pecan Cookies, here are some handy tips and substitutions to consider:

• Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months. Roll the dough into balls, freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-tight bag. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
• Pairing: Enjoy your cookies with a glass of milk, a cup of coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence.
• Flavor Variations: Consider adding chocolate chips or a sprinkle of sea salt to elevate the flavor of your cookies even further.
• Ingredient Quality: Using high-quality butter and pecans will significantly enhance the flavor of your cookies.

What Complements This Butter Pecan Cookies

When serving Butter Pecan Cookies, you can elevate the experience with a few thoughtful choices. Here are some delightful complements:

• Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream pairs beautifully with the warm cookies, providing a rich creaminess that enhances each bite.
• Coffee: Serve these cookies with freshly brewed coffee or espresso for the perfect afternoon treat that balances sweetness with a bold flavor.
• Fruit Salads: A light fruit salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cookies, making it a great side dish.
• Celebrations: Ideal for holiday gatherings, these cookies are a lovely addition to any dessert table or gift exchange.
• Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle with warm chocolate sauce before serving for a decadent twist that chocolate lovers will adore.
• Storing Leftovers: If you have any cookies left, keep them in an airtight container. They stay fresh and delicious for several days.

FAQ

Conclusion

This recipe for Butter Pecan Cookies encapsulates everything you love about homemade treats: rich flavors, delightful textures, and the ability to share joy with others. I encourage you to try making them yourself; they are sure to become a favorite in your home. With their buttery, nutty goodness, these cookies are perfect for any occasion — or just because you deserve a sweet treat!

Butter Pecan Cookies

The ultimate comfort food, Butter Pecan Cookies blend rich, buttery flavors with crunchy pecans. These cookies are easy to make and perfect for any occasion, creating a delightful treat that everyone will love. Make them tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 3 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 12 minutes mins

Total Time 3 hours hrs 42 minutes mins

Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Servings 12 cookies

Calories 210 kcal

Equipment

• Skillet
• Whisk
• Oven
• Large Pot
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl
• Wooden Spoon
• Baking Sheet

Ingredients

  

• 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
• 1 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup white granulated sugar
• 1 cup dark brown sugar
• 2 large eggs at room temperature
• 1 egg yolk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla
• 1/3 cup pecan halves

Instructions

 

• In a large skillet, sauté the chopped pecans, brown sugar, and butter for about 3-4 minutes, until lightly toasted. Set aside to cool, and stir in the vanilla.
• Bring the butter to a boil, stirring frequently, in a skillet over medium-high heat. The solid particles at the bottom will turn golden brown. Immediately pour the mixture into a large mixing bowl and cool slightly for about 10 minutes.
• In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and baking soda.
• Whisk the sugars into the cooled, browned butter. Whisk in the vanilla, eggs, and egg yolk until well combined.
• Add dry ingredients into the butter bowl and stir until well combined.
• Stir in buttered pecans.
• Cover the mixture with plastic wrap, pressing the plastic down onto the dough's surface. Chill for at least 3 hours and up to 3 days.
• Before baking, let the dough sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Roll dough into balls, about three tablespoons each, and place 2 inches apart onto the baking sheet.
• Bake on the middle rack until the edges are set and just beginning to turn golden brown, about 9-12 minutes. Remove from the oven and immediately press a pecan halve into the center of each cookie.
• Let rest on a baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack.
• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Notes

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them.

Keyword Butter Pecan Cookies, easy cookie recipe, Homemade Cookies, pecan desserts

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Meet Camila Rivera

I’m Camila, and I believe the very best meals are the ones that bring the whole family together. My passion is taking classic, beloved dishes and adding a spicy or zesty twist to wake up your palate. I have cooked, tweaked, and taste-tested this recipe right here in my own home kitchen to ensure it works perfectly for you. I hope you enjoy every single bite let me know how it turns out!