If you love pecan pie, you’ll adore these bite-sized Pecan Pie Cookies! They combine all the rich, nutty flavors of a traditional pecan pie with the convenience and fun of a cookie. With a flaky pie crust base, sweet pecan filling, and a drizzle of chocolate, these cookies are the perfect dessert for holidays, gatherings, or any time you’re craving something indulgent.
Ingredients:
- 1 prepared single pie crust (homemade or store-bought, such as Pillsbury)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup corn syrup
- 2 eggs
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- Optional: 1/4 cup semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips (for decorating)
Directions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Prepare the Pecan Filling
In a large non-stick pan, combine the melted butter, chopped pecans, brown sugar, corn syrup, salt, and eggs. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture just thickens, resembling the consistency of pudding. Be careful not to overcook it, as you want the filling to remain slightly soft. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Cut Out the Pie Crust
Unroll the pie crust and, using a 3-inch cookie cutter, cut out circles. Gently fold the edges up about 1/8 to 1/4 inch to create a shallow edge that will hold the filling.
4. Fill the Cookies
Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the prepared pecan filling into each dough circle. Make sure not to overfill, as the filling will expand slightly during baking.
5. Bake the Cookies
Place the filled circles on the parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 8 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges of the crust are golden brown. Remove from the oven and transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Decorate with Chocolate Drizzle (Optional)
If desired, melt the chocolate chips by placing them in a small Ziploc bag. Microwave for about 15 seconds or until mostly melted. Snip off a tiny corner of the bag and drizzle the chocolate over the cooled cookies for an extra touch of sweetness.
Serving and Storage Tips:
Serving Tips:
- Serve at Room Temperature: These Pecan Pie Cookies are best served at room temperature, allowing the flavors to fully develop and the filling to set perfectly.
- Perfect for Parties: Arrange the cookies on a dessert platter for easy serving at parties, holiday gatherings, or bake sales. Their bite-sized format makes them a convenient, grab-and-go treat.
- Garnish with Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: For an extra indulgent dessert, serve the cookies with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. It pairs wonderfully with the sweet pecan filling.
Storage Tips:
- Room Temperature Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keeping them in a cool, dry place will preserve their freshness.
- Refrigeration: If you prefer, you can store the cookies in the refrigerator for up to a week. Be sure to bring them to room temperature before serving to enjoy their full flavor and texture.
- Freezing: To extend their shelf life, you can freeze the cookies. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 2 months. Thaw the cookies at room temperature before serving.
- Reheating: If you want to enjoy the cookies warm, you can reheat them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. This will slightly soften the filling and bring out the flavors.
These serving and storage tips will help you keep your Pecan Pie Cookies fresh and ready to enjoy, whether for a quick treat or a special occasion!
Variations:
1. Chocolate Pecan Pie Cookies
- Add chocolate chips to the pecan filling or use dark chocolate chips in the drizzle. The combination of chocolate and pecans creates a rich, decadent flavor that chocolate lovers will adore.
2. Maple Pecan Pie Cookies
- Replace the corn syrup with pure maple syrup for a deep, caramel-like flavor. The maple syrup adds a natural sweetness that complements the pecans beautifully.
3. Bourbon Pecan Pie Cookies
- Add a splash of bourbon (about 1 tablespoon) to the pecan filling for a hint of warmth and sophistication. This variation brings a bold, rich flavor perfect for holiday gatherings.
4. Caramel Pecan Pie Cookies
- Drizzle caramel sauce over the baked cookies instead of chocolate. The caramel enhances the sweetness of the pecan filling, creating a gooey, indulgent treat.
5. Coconut Pecan Pie Cookies
- Add shredded coconut to the filling for a tropical twist. The coconut adds extra texture and pairs well with the nutty pecans and sweet filling.
6. Mini Pie Crust Cups
- Instead of using a cookie cutter, press small circles of pie dough into mini muffin tins to create pie crust cups. Fill the cups with the pecan mixture and bake for a fun, mini pie variation.
7. Cinnamon Pecan Pie Cookies
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the pecan filling for a warm, spiced flavor. This adds an autumnal touch, making it a perfect treat for the fall season.
8. Orange Zest Pecan Pie Cookies
- Incorporate the zest of one orange into the pecan filling for a bright, citrusy flavor. The orange zest complements the sweetness of the filling and adds a refreshing twist.
9. Salted Caramel Pecan Pie Cookies
- After drizzling the cookies with caramel sauce, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top. The salted caramel balances the sweetness and adds a deliciously savory element to the cookies.
10. Honey Pecan Pie Cookies
- Substitute the corn syrup with honey for a natural sweetness. Honey adds a floral note to the filling, making these cookies both unique and delicious.
These variations allow you to customize your Pecan Pie Cookies to suit different tastes and occasions, whether you’re in the mood for something extra rich, nutty, or even a little boozy!
FAQs:
1. Can I use a homemade pie crust instead of store-bought?
Yes, you can use homemade pie crust if you prefer. Simply prepare your favorite pie crust recipe, roll it out, and cut it into circles as directed in the recipe.
2. Can I make the pecan filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pecan filling ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before using it. When ready to bake, bring it to room temperature for easier handling.
3. How do I prevent the pie crust from becoming soggy?
Make sure the pecan filling is slightly thickened before adding it to the pie crust circles. Avoid overfilling the crust to prevent excess liquid from leaking and making the crust soggy.
4. Can I use a different type of nut besides pecans?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts if you prefer. Each nut will give the cookies a slightly different texture and flavor.
5. How do I store leftover Pecan Pie Cookies?
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
6. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can make these cookies gluten-free by using a gluten-free pie crust. Be sure to check that all other ingredients, such as the corn syrup, are gluten-free as well.
7. Can I skip the chocolate drizzle?
Yes, the chocolate drizzle is optional. The cookies are delicious on their own, but the drizzle adds an extra layer of sweetness and decoration.
8. Can I use light corn syrup instead of dark corn syrup?
Yes, you can use light corn syrup, but dark corn syrup will give the filling a richer flavor and color. Both options work well depending on your taste preference.
9. How do I know when the cookies are done?
The cookies are done when the filling is just set and the pie crust is golden brown. This usually takes about 8 minutes in the oven, but you can adjust the time slightly based on your oven.
10. Can I freeze the dough or cookies for later use?
Yes, you can freeze both the pie dough and the baked cookies. For the dough, freeze it after cutting out the circles and thaw before filling and baking. For baked cookies, freeze them in an airtight container for up to 2 months and thaw before serving.
These FAQs will help you troubleshoot and perfect your Pecan Pie Cookies, making them an easy and delightful treat for any occasion!
Pecan Pie Cookies offer all the comforting flavors of a classic pecan pie in a convenient, easy-to-make cookie form. With their crisp pie crust, sweet pecan filling, and optional chocolate drizzle, they’re a crowd-pleasing treat perfect for any occasion. These cookies are sure to become a favorite addition to your holiday baking list or any dessert spread. Give them a try and enjoy a sweet, nutty bite-sized indulgence!