Butter Pecan Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of butter, brown sugar, and toasted pecans for an irresistible dessert experience. These cookies are soft on the inside with a slightly crisp edge, making them perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering or just indulging in a sweet snack at home. With their nutty flavor and buttery aroma, these cookies will fill your kitchen with warmth and joy. delightful Easter shortbread cookies Plus, they are easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. garlic parmesan focaccia bread In this recipe, you’ll learn how to whip up a batch of Butter Pecan Cookies that not only taste incredible but also look beautiful on any dessert platter. So let’s get started on this delicious journey!
Why You’ll Love This Butter Pecan Cookies
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The combination of buttery dough with toasted pecans creates a uniquely rich flavor profile that is hard to resist
- Perfect for Sharing: These cookies are an excellent choice for parties or gatherings, as they are sure to impress friends and family alike
Ingredients for Butter Pecan Cookies
For more inspiration, check out this Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies recipe.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: The base of your cookie dough; make sure to measure it correctly for the best texture
- Unsalted Butter: Use softened butter for easy mixing; it contributes to the rich flavor and texture of the cookies
- Sugar: A mix of granulated sugar and packed brown sugar enhances sweetness and moisture in the cookies
- Pecans: Toasted pecans provide a crunchy texture and deep nutty flavor; consider chopping them coarsely for added bite
- Eggs: Eggs bind the ingredients together while adding richness; use large eggs as specified in most recipes
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Butter Pecan Cookies
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature before baking your cookies.
Step 2: Toast the Pecans
Spread chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast them in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes until fragrant; keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy—this should take about 3-5 minutes using an electric mixer.
Step 4: Add Eggs
Beat in large eggs one at a time into the butter mixture until well combined; this helps create a smooth batter.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt before gradually adding this mixture to the wet ingredients; mix until just combined.
Step 6: Fold in Pecans
Gently fold in the toasted pecans into your cookie dough until evenly distributed; be careful not to overmix.
Transfer rounded tablespoons of dough onto lined baking sheets and bake for about 10-12 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Allow cooling on racks before serving.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Measure Accurately: Use proper measuring cups and spoons for precise ingredient amounts which leads to consistent results
- Chill Dough if Necessary: If your dough feels too soft or sticky, chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes can help shape better cookies
- Storage Tips: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze them for longer freshness
How to Serve Butter Pecan Cookies
This Butter Pecan Cookies is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture and sweet flavor of vanilla ice cream create a delightful contrast with the nutty cookies.
- Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage enhances the buttery flavors, making for a perfect afternoon treat.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling chocolate sauce over these cookies adds an indulgent touch that chocolate lovers will adore.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough for Butter Pecan Cookies up to two days in advance. no bake granola bars Simply mix all ingredients, shape the dough into logs, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Storing: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, place them in the freezer, where they can last for up to three months.
- Reheating: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place cookies on a baking sheet and warm for about 5-7 minutes until they regain their softness and warmth.
Suggestions for Butter Pecan Cookies
Use Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh ingredients is crucial when making butter pecan cookies. Stale flour or old baking soda can alter the texture and flavor of your cookies. Always check the expiration dates before starting your recipe. Freshly chopped pecans will add more flavor than pre-packaged ones. buttermilk pancake casserole Toasting the pecans enhances their nuttiness, making your cookies taste even better. When you use high-quality butter, it not only improves flavor but also contributes to a tender texture. Invest in good ingredients for the best results in your baking endeavors.
Measure Accurately
Accurate measurement of ingredients is essential in baking butter pecan cookies. Unlike cooking, where you can adjust flavors on the fly, baking requires precision to achieve the right consistency and taste. Use a kitchen scale for dry ingredients like flour and sugar to ensure accuracy. Measuring cups should be leveled off for dry goods to avoid using too much or too little. Liquid ingredients should be measured at eye level for the most accurate reading. Proper measuring leads to consistent results every time you bake. For more inspiration, check out this Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake recipe.
Don’t Overmix the Dough
Overmixing can lead to tough butter pecan cookies instead of soft and chewy ones. Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. The goal is to keep some air in the dough while ensuring all elements are combined well. If you see a few flour streaks remaining, that’s perfectly fine; they will disappear as the dough rests or bakes. Remember that gentle handling of your cookie dough will result in lighter, fluffier cookies that melt in your mouth.
Chill Your Dough
Chilling your cookie dough before baking can significantly improve the texture of your butter pecan cookies. This step allows the fats to solidify, which helps prevent spreading during baking and results in thicker, chewier cookies. Ideally, refrigerate your dough for at least 30 minutes but longer if possible—up to 24 hours is great! Chilling also enhances flavors as they meld together over time. Just remember to allow extra time for chilling when planning your baking session.
FAQs
What makes Butter Pecan Cookies different from regular cookies?
Butter pecan cookies stand out due to their rich buttery flavor combined with toasted pecans for added crunch and nutty undertones. The unique blend of these ingredients creates a delightful combination that sets them apart from standard chocolate chip or sugar cookies. The buttery base offers a tender crumb while the toasted nuts provide texture and depth of flavor, making each bite memorable. Additionally, these cookies often feature brown sugar instead of white sugar, contributing to a caramel-like sweetness that enriches their overall taste profile.
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, you can absolutely substitute other nuts in butter pecan cookies if desired! Walnuts or macadamia nuts work well as alternatives due to their similar textures and flavors. However, keep in mind that changing nuts will alter the final taste slightly; walnuts provide earthiness while macadamias offer creaminess. Toasting any nut before adding it into your cookie dough enhances its flavor significantly. Feel free to experiment with different nuts based on personal preference or availability while maintaining a balance between flavor and texture.
How do I store Butter Pecan Cookies?
Storing butter pecan cookies correctly ensures they remain fresh and delicious longer. Allow them to cool completely after baking before transferring them into an airtight container at room temperature; this keeps them soft for about a week. For extended freshness, consider freezing them—place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container separated by parchment paper so they don’t stick together. They can last up to three months in the freezer! To enjoy later, simply thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the microwave.
Can I make Butter Pecan Cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can create gluten-free butter pecan cookies by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Look for blends containing xanthan gum or add it separately if needed; this helps mimic traditional flour’s binding properties without compromising texture too much. Be mindful of cross-contamination during preparation if allergies are a concern—use dedicated utensils and surfaces for gluten-free baking whenever possible! Enjoy delicious gluten-free treats without sacrificing flavor!
Conclusion for Butter Pecan Cookies
Baking delicious butter pecan cookies requires attention to detail and some essential techniques for success. Start by using fresh ingredients and measuring accurately to ensure optimal flavor and texture throughout each batch you make. Avoid overmixing your dough; this simple tip will keep your cookies light and tender rather than toughened up from excessive handling. Don’t forget about chilling your dough ahead of time—it’s a game-changer that enhances both flavor development and cookie structure! By following these key points, you’ll consistently produce delightful butter pecan cookies that friends and family will love sharing together.
Butter Pecan Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the warm, nutty goodness of Butter Pecan Cookies. These cookies combine rich butter, brown sugar, and toasted pecans to create a soft interior with a crisp edge. Perfect for any occasion, they are easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Enjoy them fresh from the oven or paired with your favorite ice cream for an irresistible dessert experience.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 cup toasted pecans (coarsely chopped)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Toast the pecans on a baking sheet for about 8-10 minutes until fragrant.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes).
- Beat in the eggs one at a time until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt; gradually mix into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Fold in the toasted pecans gently.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto lined baking sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
- Allow to cool on racks before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
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