Pecan Pie Cookies
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Delight in the sweet and nutty flavor of pecan pie reimagined as scrumptious cookies. Perfect for any occasion!
Pecan Pie Cookies combine the beloved flavors of traditional pecan pie into a delightful cookie form. They're perfect for holiday gatherings, dessert trays, or simply as a sweet treat to enjoy with your coffee.
Why You'll Love These Cookies
- A delicious blend of sweet and nutty flavors
- Chewy texture with a crunchy pecan topping
- Easy to make and perfect for sharing
The Perfect Treat for Any Occasion
Pecan Pie Cookies are truly versatile, making them an ideal treat for various occasions. Whether you're planning a holiday gathering, a birthday celebration, or simply want to indulge in a sweet snack, these cookies will impress your guests. Their delightful combination of flavors mirrors the classic pecan pie, but in a more convenient, easy-to-eat form. Plus, the chewy texture with a crunchy topping ensures that each bite is satisfying and delicious.
Not only do these cookies taste fantastic, but they also make for a thoughtful gift. Package them in a decorative box or tin, and you have a homemade present that is sure to warm the hearts of friends and family. The combination of sweet and nutty flavors is universally loved, making them a safe choice for any gift-giving occasion.
A Simple Recipe for All Skill Levels
One of the standout features of Pecan Pie Cookies is how easy they are to make. The recipe is designed for bakers of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned pros. With straightforward steps and common ingredients, you'll find that whipping up a batch of these cookies is a breeze. The simplicity of the process allows you to focus on enjoying the baking experience rather than being overwhelmed by complicated techniques.
Moreover, these cookies are perfect for baking with kids or friends. Invite your loved ones into the kitchen, and share the joy of creating something delicious together. The fun of scooping dough and adding the pecan topping creates bonding moments that are just as sweet as the cookies themselves.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
Once your Pecan Pie Cookies are baked and cooled, you'll want to store them properly to maintain their freshness. Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Simply place the cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can last for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds for that freshly-baked taste.
For serving, consider pairing these cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat. They also pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making them a delightful afternoon snack. No matter how you serve them, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around.
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Pecan Topping
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup corn syrup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Mix all the ingredients thoroughly to create a delicious cookie dough.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Make the Cookie Dough
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
Prepare the Pecan Topping
In a small bowl, mix together the chopped pecans, corn syrup, brown sugar, salt, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Form Cookies
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Use your thumb to make a small indentation in the center of each cookie.
Add Pecan Topping
Spoon a small amount of the pecan topping into each indentation.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Enjoy your freshly baked pecan pie cookies with a cup of tea or coffee!
Tips for Perfect Cookies
To ensure that your Pecan Pie Cookies turn out perfectly, measure your ingredients accurately. Using a kitchen scale can help you achieve the precise amounts needed for the best texture and flavor. Additionally, make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and better incorporation into the dough.
Another tip is to chill the cookie dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This step can help prevent the cookies from spreading too much in the oven, resulting in a thicker, chewier cookie. If you prefer a more rustic look, you can skip this step, but it’s worth considering for an extra level of control over the final product.
Variations and Customizations
While the classic recipe is a hit on its own, you can also get creative with variations. Consider adding chocolate chips or a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the pecan topping for a decadent twist. Alternatively, you could incorporate different nuts such as walnuts or almonds for a unique flavor profile.
If you're looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just ensure that the blend you choose is suitable for baking and has a similar texture to traditional flour. Experimenting with these variations can make your Pecan Pie Cookies even more exciting and tailored to your personal taste.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days.
→ Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! Once cooled, place the cookies in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.
→ What can I use instead of corn syrup?
You can substitute corn syrup with maple syrup or honey, but the flavor may vary slightly.
→ How do I store the cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Pecan Pie Cookies
Delight in the sweet and nutty flavor of pecan pie reimagined as scrumptious cookies. Perfect for any occasion!
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 24 cookies
What You'll Need
For the Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Pecan Topping
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup corn syrup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
In a small bowl, mix together the chopped pecans, corn syrup, brown sugar, salt, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Use your thumb to make a small indentation in the center of each cookie.
Spoon a small amount of the pecan topping into each indentation.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 90mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 24g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 2g