Butter Pecan Cookies

If you’re a fan of rich, nutty flavors with a soft, chewy texture, then Butter Pecan Cookies are the perfect treat for you. These cookies blend the deep, buttery goodness of soft dough with the satisfying crunch of pecans, making them a fantastic dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a family gathering, or just for a sweet snack, these cookies will surely be a hit. With simple ingredients and an easy baking process, you’ll have a batch of these irresistible cookies in no time.

Ingredients

• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 7 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• A pinch of salt
• Pecan halves for topping each cookie

Directions

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining two baking sheets with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to whisk the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and creamy. This process typically takes a few minutes. Add the eggs and vanilla extract and continue beating for another 2 minutes to ensure everything is well combined.

Next, sift in the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix everything together until the dough is fully incorporated and smooth. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of the cookies.

Using a medium spatula, scoop portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, ensuring there’s enough space between them for spreading. To finish, press a pecan half onto the top of each cookie.

Bake for 10 to 15 minutes or until the cookies turn golden brown around the edges. Remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Tips for the Best Butter Pecan Cookies

To make sure your cookies turn out perfectly, here are a few helpful tips:

• Chill the dough: If you prefer a firmer cookie or want to prevent spreading, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
• Toast the pecans: Toasting the pecans in the oven for a few minutes before chopping can enhance their flavor, giving your cookies an extra rich, nutty taste.
• Don’t overbake: Keep a close eye on the cookies while they bake. Overbaking can lead to crispy edges, and we want soft, chewy cookies with golden brown edges.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions

• Serve these Butter Pecan Cookies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Pair with a cup of tea or coffee to enhance their rich, buttery flavor.
• For a festive touch, you can drizzle melted chocolate or caramel over the top before serving.

Storage Tips

• To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
• If you want to extend the shelf life, freeze the cookies. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can stay good for up to 3 months.
• To thaw frozen cookies, simply leave them at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes, and they’ll be just as soft and delicious as when they were freshly baked.

Reheating Tips

• If you prefer your cookies warm, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or heat them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes.

Variations

1. Chocolate Chip Butter Pecan Cookies
Add 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the dough for an irresistible combination of butter pecan flavor and gooey chocolate chunks.

2. Brown Butter Pecan Cookies
For a deeper, nuttier flavor, brown the butter before mixing it with the sugar. This will give the cookies an enhanced, caramel-like taste.

3. Maple Butter Pecan Cookies
Add 2 tablespoons of pure maple syrup to the dough for a sweet, maple flavor that pairs perfectly with the pecans.

4. Coconut Butter Pecan Cookies
Incorporate 1/2 cup of shredded coconut into the dough for a tropical twist, adding texture and flavor to each bite.

5. Oatmeal Butter Pecan Cookies
Add 1 cup of old-fashioned rolled oats to the dough for a chewy texture, turning these into a more hearty cookie option.

6. Cinnamon Butter Pecan Cookies
Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon into the dough for a warm, spiced flavor that complements the pecans beautifully.

7. Toffee Butter Pecan Cookies
Add 1/2 cup of toffee bits into the dough for an extra layer of sweetness and crunch.

8. Salted Butter Pecan Cookies
Top each cookie with a small pinch of sea salt before baking. The salt contrasts the sweetness, enhancing the pecan flavor.

9. Gluten-Free Butter Pecan Cookies
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free, allowing everyone to enjoy the treat.

10. Pumpkin Spice Butter Pecan Cookies
Add 1/2 teaspoon of pumpkin spice and a tablespoon of pumpkin puree for a seasonal twist that’s perfect for fall.

FAQs

1. Can I use salted butter in these cookies?
It’s best to use unsalted butter, as the recipe includes a pinch of salt. If you only have salted butter, reduce or omit the additional salt in the recipe.

2. Can I substitute pecans with another nut?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts for a different flavor profile.

3. How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking?
Chill the cookie dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This will help the dough hold its shape and prevent excessive spreading.

4. Can I make the cookie dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 3 days before baking. Alternatively, freeze the dough for up to 3 months and thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking.

5. How can I make these cookies chewier?
For a chewier texture, reduce the baking time slightly and make sure the cookies don’t get overbaked.

6. Can I add more sugar for a sweeter taste?
You can increase the sugar slightly if you prefer sweeter cookies. However, adding too much might affect the texture, so it’s best to adjust cautiously.

7. Can I freeze the baked cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the baked cookies. Place them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months.

8. How long should I bake these cookies?
Bake the cookies for 10-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown around the edges. Baking time may vary based on your oven.

9. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend to replace the all-purpose flour in the recipe for a gluten-free version of the cookies.

10. How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies should be golden brown around the edges but still soft in the center. They will firm up as they cool.

These Butter Pecan Cookies are a simple yet delightful treat that combines the best of butter and nuts. Whether you’re indulging with a cup of coffee or sharing with loved ones, these cookies are sure to impress. With their soft, chewy texture and the nutty crunch of pecans, they offer a comforting flavor that will make everyone smile. Give this recipe a try, and you’re sure to have a new favorite cookie on your hands!

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