Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe

There is something truly irresistible about a warm, buttery cookie studded with crunchy pecans and a hint of caramel sweetness, and that is exactly what the Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe delivers in every bite. These cookies bring together the perfect balance of rich melted butter, toasted pecans, and subtle cinnamon to create a treat that feels both comforting and indulgent. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a homemade snack, this recipe is your ticket to cookie bliss with that unforgettable buttery, nutty flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe is straightforward yet crucial for creating the perfect texture, flavor, and that classic golden color. From the creamy melted butter that makes the cookies tender to the toasted pecans that give a satisfying crunch, every component plays its part beautifully.

• Unsalted butter (1 cup, melted and cooled): Provides rich flavor and a tender crumb to the cookies.
• Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Adds sweetness and helps with the crisp edges.
• Brown sugar (1 cup): Offers moisture and deep caramel notes for a chewy texture.
• Large eggs (2): Bind ingredients and enrich the dough for softness.
• Vanilla extract (5 tsp): Enhances the overall flavor with warm, aromatic undertones.
• All-purpose flour (5 cups): The base structure for the cookies to hold their shape.
• Cinnamon powder (1 tsp): Adds a subtle spice that complements the buttery taste.
• Cornstarch (1 tsp): Keeps the cookies soft and a little more delicate in texture.
• Baking soda (1 tsp) & baking powder (1/2 tsp): Together, they ensure the cookies rise perfectly with a light texture.
• Roughly chopped pecans (5 cups, toasted if preferred): The star ingredient that delivers crunch and nutty flavor in every bite.
• Toffee bits (1/2 cup, optional): Adds an extra layer of sweet, buttery crunch that pairs beautifully with the pecans.

How to Make Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Tray

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking. Meanwhile, line a baking tray with parchment paper; this prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Having your oven and tray ready ensures a smooth baking process with even heat distribution.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter with the granulated sugar and brown sugar. Beat these together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is essential because it incorporates air, helping your cookies to have a delightful texture that’s both chewy and tender.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, add the eggs one at a time along with the vanilla extract, mixing well after each addition. These ingredients enrich your cookie dough with moisture and flavor, making sure every bite has that classic buttery sweetness with a hint of vanilla warmth.

Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Gradually sift in the all-purpose flour, cinnamon powder, cornstarch, baking soda, and baking powder. Mix gently until just combined; overmixing can make cookies tough. The spices and leavening agents here ensure your cookies rise perfectly and carry a subtle spicy note that complements the nuts.

Step 5: Fold in Pecans and Toffee Bits

Carefully fold in the chopped, toasted pecans and, if using, the toffee bits. Toasting the pecans beforehand enhances their flavor deeply while adding a wonderful crunch. The toffee bits contribute sweet bursts that elevate the cookie’s flavor profile beautifully.

Step 6: Chill the Dough

Place your dough in the refrigerator for 30 to 45 minutes. Chilling firms up the dough, making it much easier to handle and shape. It also prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking, helping them keep a nice thickness and tender chew.

Step 7: Shape the Cookies

Roll the dough into balls, approximately the size of a walnut. For an extra touch of texture and sweetness, you can roll the dough balls in granulated sugar before placing them on the baking tray. This helps create a slightly crisp exterior while keeping the inside soft.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 11 to 14 minutes, watching closely for that magical moment when the edges turn golden brown and the centers look set. This baking time locks in moisture while giving you that perfect, lightly crisp edge with a chewy middle.

Step 9: Cool and Slightly Flatten if Needed

Once out of the oven, allow the cookies to cool on the tray. If you notice the centers have puffed up too much, gently press them down with a spatula for that signature flat, rustic look that sets Butter Pecan Cookies apart.

Step 10: Enjoy!

Now comes the best part — savoring your fresh, homemade Butter Pecan Cookies! The marriage of buttery richness, toasted nuts, and softly crisp edges will keep you coming back for more.

How to Serve Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

Enhance the presentation and flavor by sprinkling a few extra toasted pecan halves on top of your cookies just before serving. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also add a pretty, festive touch and a hint of sweetness that complements the buttery dough.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk for dipping or a warm cup of spiced chai or coffee, which balances the cookie’s sweetness and brings out the nutty flavors. For a more decadent treat, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, stack your Butter Pecan Cookies on a decorative plate with some sprigs of fresh mint or cinnamon sticks around for an inviting display. You can also use these cookies as an ice cream sandwich base or crumble them over desserts like pudding or parfaits for added texture and flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay chewy and delicious for up to a week, allowing you to enjoy your Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe over several days without losing their charm.

Freezing

You can freeze the dough before baking by shaping it into balls and placing them on a tray in the freezer. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Alternatively, freeze baked cookies in an airtight container to preserve freshness and thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

To bring back that just-baked warmth, reheat cookies in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes or microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This revives their soft texture and releases that irresistible buttery aroma once again.

FAQs

Can I use roasted pecans instead of raw?

Absolutely! Roasted pecans add a deeper, nuttier flavor and extra crunch. Toasting them yourself just before folding into the dough yields the freshest taste.

Is it necessary to chill the dough?

Chilling the dough helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much in the oven, ensuring a thicker, chewier texture. While you can skip this step, the results might not be as perfect.

Can I substitute toffee bits with chocolate chips?

Yes, chocolate chips make a tasty alternative, adding a delicious chocolaty note that pairs well with pecans and butter. It’s a fun twist on the classic Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe.

How long do these cookies keep fresh?

Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies stay fresh and chewy for up to a week. For longer storage, freezing is your best bet.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can experiment with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour, but keep in mind the texture might vary slightly. Adding a bit more cornstarch can help maintain softness.

Final Thoughts

There’s a heartfelt joy in sharing these warm, buttery Butter Pecan Cookies with friends and family, and I hope this recipe becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen too. The combination of tender dough, toasted pecans, and just the right touch of sweetness make these cookies unforgettable. Give this Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe a try, and prepare to fall in love with every delicious bite!

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