Butter Pecan Cookies are a delightful treat that brings warmth and joy to any occasion. These cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with toasted pecans, making them perfect for holiday gatherings like Christmas and Thanksgiving. The unique combination of flavors, along with the simplicity of the recipe, ensures that they will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and minimal time, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Irresistible Flavor: The rich taste of butter paired with the crunch of pecans creates a mouthwatering experience in every bite.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy these cookies as a dessert, snack, or even as homemade gifts—ideal for sharing during festive seasons.
- Chewy Texture: The combination of cornstarch and baking soda gives these cookies an incredible soft and chewy texture.
- Customizable Add-Ins: Feel free to mix in optional ingredients like toffee bits for an extra layer of sweetness.
Tools and Preparation
To create perfect Butter Pecan Cookies, having the right tools makes all the difference. Below is a brief overview of the essential tools you will need to get started.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Cookie tray
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients thoroughly for a consistent dough.
- Electric mixer or whisk: Using an electric mixer saves time and energy when creaming the butter and sugars together.
- Cookie tray: A good-quality cookie tray ensures even baking and prevents sticking.
Ingredients
Easy, soft and chewy butter pecan cookies recipe, homemade with simple ingredients. Loaded with toasted pecans. Great for Christmas and Thanksgiving!
For the Cookies
- 1 cup Butter (Unsalted, Melted, Should be cooled so that it’s warm and not very hot)
- 1/2 cup Granulated sugar
- 1 cup Brown sugar
- 2 Eggs (Large)
- 1.5 tsp Vanilla extract
- 2.5 cups All-purpose flour
- 1 tsp Cinnamon powder
- 1 tsp Cornstarch
- 1 tsp Baking soda
- 1/2 tsp Baking powder
- 1.5 cups Pecans (Roughly chopped, Unsalted, Preferably toasted)
- 1/2 cup Toffee bits (Optional)
How to Make Butter Pecan Cookies
Step 1: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 2: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add eggs and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
Add flour, cinnamon powder, cornstarch, baking soda, and baking powder; mix until just combined.
Step 4: Incorporate Pecans
Mix in pecans and optional toffee bits until evenly distributed.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Chill dough for 30-45 minutes to make it easier to handle.
Step 6: Shape into Balls
Scoop out small portions of the dough and roll into balls. The chilled dough may seem crumbly but can be easily shaped with your hands.
Step 7: Roll in Sugar (Optional)
Roll each cookie dough ball in a bowl of granulated sugar if desired.
Step 8: Prepare for Baking
Place them on a cookie tray lined with parchment paper.
Step 9: Bake
Bake at 350 degrees F for about 11-14 minutes or until cookies are golden brown and firm along the edges. They will puff up in the center but will deflate slightly as they cool. If needed, press down gently with the back of a spoon before serving. Enjoy!
How to Serve Butter Pecan Cookies
Butter pecan cookies are delightful on their own, but serving them with complementary items can elevate the experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enjoy these delicious treats.
With Coffee or Tea
- A warm cup of coffee enhances the flavors of the cookies and makes for a cozy pairing.
- Enjoy with herbal tea for a soothing afternoon snack that balances sweetness with calmness.
Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Butter Pecan Cookie Sandwiches: Place a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream between two cookies for a decadent dessert.
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Twist: Use one butter pecan cookie and one chocolate chip cookie to create a unique flavor combination.
Drizzled with Chocolate
- Add a rich chocolate drizzle over your butter pecan cookies for an elegant touch.
- Use white chocolate for a sweet contrast that pairs well with the nuttiness of the pecans.
As a Dessert Platter
- Serve butter pecan cookies alongside other holiday treats like gingerbread or peppermint bark for a festive platter.
- Include some fresh fruits like apple slices or berries to balance out the sweetness.
Stacked for Presentation
- Create a visually appealing stack of cookies on a decorative plate or tiered stand.
- Dust with powdered sugar on top for an added touch of elegance.
How to Perfect Butter Pecan Cookies
To achieve the ultimate texture and flavor in your butter pecan cookies, follow these helpful tips. A few adjustments can make all the difference!
- Chill the Dough: Chilling helps solidify the fats, ensuring your cookies maintain their shape while baking.
- Toast Your Pecans: Toasting enhances the nutty flavor and adds depth to your cookies. Simply bake them at 350°F for about 8-10 minutes before adding to the dough.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep your cookies soft and chewy. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies.
- Watch Baking Time: Every oven is different. Check your cookies at around 11 minutes to prevent overbaking; they should be golden but still soft in the center.
Best Side Dishes for Butter Pecan Cookies
Pairing side dishes with butter pecan cookies can create a delightful meal or snack experience. Here are some great options to consider:
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that complements the buttery flavor of the cookies perfectly.
- Fruit Salad: Fresh fruits add a refreshing contrast and help balance out sweetness.
- Chocolate Fondue: Dip bites of cookie into melted chocolate for an indulgent treat that’s perfect for sharing.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte: This seasonal drink brings warmth and complements the spiced flavors of the cookies during fall.
- Cream Cheese Frosting Dip: A sweet dip that works wonderfully when you want something extra indulgent on your plate.
- Hot Cocoa: Cozy up with a warm cup of cocoa, which pairs beautifully with these chewy delights, especially in winter months.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Butter Pecan Cookies, it’s easy to make simple mistakes that can alter the final result. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Using hot butter: If your butter is too hot, it can melt the sugar instead of creaming it, resulting in flat cookies. Let the melted butter cool until warm before mixing.
- Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading and ensures chewier cookies. Don’t skip this step; chill for at least 30 minutes.
- Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much after adding flour can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined for soft, chewy results.
- Not measuring ingredients correctly: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups for precise amounts.
- Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to unevenly baked cookies. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if needed.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to one week in the fridge.
Freezing Butter Pecan Cookies
- Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to three months.
Reheating Butter Pecan Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 5-7 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on low for about 10-15 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place in a covered skillet over low heat for a few minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Butter Pecan Cookies that may help you perfect your baking skills.
How do I make my Butter Pecan Cookies chewier?
To achieve chewier cookies, ensure you don’t overmix the dough and chill it properly before baking.
Can I substitute pecans with other nuts?
Yes! You can use walnuts or almonds as alternatives if you prefer different flavors or textures.
What can I add to Butter Pecan Cookies?
Consider adding chocolate chips or dried fruits to customize your cookies further!
How long do these cookies last?
When stored properly, Butter Pecan Cookies can last up to one week in the refrigerator or three months in the freezer.
Final Thoughts
These Butter Pecan Cookies are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Their soft and chewy texture makes them perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to cozy nights at home. Feel free to customize them with your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruits. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Butter Pecan Cookies
Butter Pecan Cookies are the quintessential comfort treat, perfect for any occasion. These delectable cookies feature a rich buttery flavor combined with the delightful crunch of toasted pecans, making each bite a warm and inviting experience. Ideal for holiday gatherings or cozy afternoons, this easy recipe ensures that bakers of all skill levels can whip up a batch of soft, chewy cookies in no time. With the option to customize with add-ins like chocolate chips or toffee bits, these cookies quickly become a family favorite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (melted and cooled)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1.5 tsp vanilla extract
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp cinnamon powder
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1.5 cups pecans (roughly chopped and toasted)
- Optional: 1/2 cup toffee bits
Instructions
- Cream together melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- Combine flour, cinnamon, cornstarch, baking soda, and baking powder; mix until just incorporated.
- Fold in chopped pecans and optional toffee bits.
- Chill dough for 30-45 minutes for easier handling.
- Scoop dough into balls and place on a cookie tray lined with parchment paper.
- Bake at 350°F for 11-14 minutes until golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
