If you’re searching for a delightful treat that’s both simple and bursting with flavor, this Pecan Sugar Cookies Recipe is a must-try. These cookies bring together the perfect balance of sweet, buttery dough and crunchy, toasted pecans that add a subtle nutty crunch in every bite. They’re soft, tender, and lightly crisp around the edges, making them the ideal dessert to whip up anytime you want to indulge yourself or impress friends with a homemade classic. The simple ingredients come together effortlessly to create cookies that feel like a warm hug from the oven.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Pecan Sugar Cookies Recipe relies on straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a crucial role in creating the perfect cookie texture and taste. From creamy butter to crunchy pecans, every item is essential for the rich, buttery flavor and that irresistible nutty bite.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): Provides rich moisture and a tender crumb that melts in your mouth.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the dough while helping achieve the perfect crisp edges.
- Large egg (1): Binds the ingredients together and adds a slight richness.
- Vanilla extract (1½ teaspoons): Enhances the cookie’s flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
- All-purpose flour (2¼ cups): The base that gives structure and a soft bite.
- Baking powder (½ teaspoon): Helps the cookies rise just enough for a tender texture.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): Balances sweetness and boosts overall flavor.
- Finely chopped pecans (¾ cup): Adds delightful crunch and a toasty, nutty depth.
- Granulated sugar (¼ cup, for rolling): Creates a sparkling, sweet coating on the outside of each cookie.
How to Make Pecan Sugar Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready for your dough. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to make sure the cookies bake evenly and don’t stick, ensuring easy removal and cleanup.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture turns light and fluffy. This step is key to creating cookies with a tender texture and a slightly crisp edge.
Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Beat in the large egg and vanilla extract until everything is well combined. This adds moisture and flavor, making the dough rich and aromatic.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps distribute the leavening agent and salt evenly through the flour, which is essential for consistent rising and balanced flavor.
Step 5: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to your wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Overmixing can make the cookies tough, so aim for a soft, cohesive dough. Then, gently fold in the finely chopped pecans to spread that lovely nutty crunch throughout.
Step 6: Shape and Roll Dough Balls
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll each ball in the remaining ¼ cup of granulated sugar. This sugar coating adds a sweet, crackly exterior once baked, creating a beautiful contrast with the soft interior. Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges start to turn a light golden brown. After removing them from the oven, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes; this resting time lets them firm up a bit before moving them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Pecan Sugar Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
While these Pecan Sugar Cookies shine on their own, a light dusting of powdered sugar can add a charming touch of sweetness and a snowy look perfect for special occasions. You can also drizzle a bit of melted white or dark chocolate for a festive twist that complements the nutty pecans beautifully.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making them an ideal companion for afternoon breaks or cozy mornings. For a richer dessert experience, serve alongside vanilla ice cream or a creamy hot chocolate to balance the crisp, buttery texture.
Creative Ways to Present
For holiday gatherings or gift-giving, stack the pecan sugar cookies with parchment paper between layers inside decorative tins or boxes. Wrap them with a festive ribbon for a heartwarming homemade present that anyone will appreciate. You can also serve them on a colorful platter sprinkled with extra chopped pecans for a rustic, inviting look.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. This preserves their freshness and crisp edges while keeping the inside soft and delicious. Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
Freezing
Pecan Sugar Cookies freeze beautifully. After baking and cooling completely, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to three months, making them perfect to bake ahead for holidays or special occasions.
Reheating
If you want to enjoy your cookies warm, reheat them for about 5 to 7 minutes in a 300°F (150°C) oven. This small touch brings back that freshly baked softness and revives the toasty aroma of pecans. Avoid microwaving as it can make cookies chewy or tough.
FAQs
Can I use roasted pecans instead of raw pecans?
Absolutely! Toasting pecans before chopping them enhances their natural flavor and adds a deeper nuttiness to your Pecan Sugar Cookies. Just be sure to let them cool before mixing into the dough.
Can I substitute butter with margarine or oil?
Butter is key to the rich flavor and texture of these cookies, so margarine or oil won’t provide the same results. Butter adds both moisture and a wonderful mouthfeel that makes the cookies special.
How do I make the cookies gluten-free?
You can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend, but be mindful that it may affect texture slightly. Adding a little xanthan gum can help with binding to mimic the original cookie’s softness.
Will the cookies spread too much if I forget to chill the dough?
These cookies rely on a simple dough that does not necessarily need chilling, so they typically hold their shape well. However, if your kitchen is very warm, chilling for 30 minutes can help prevent excessive spreading.
Can I add other nuts or mix-ins?
Definitely! While pecans are classic, you can swap in walnuts, almonds, or even chocolate chips for variety. Just keep the quantity the same to maintain the cookie’s balance.
Final Thoughts
This Pecan Sugar Cookies Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings warmth, sweetness, and a touch of nutty elegance to your baking repertoire. Whether you’re sharing with family, gifting to friends, or indulging just for yourself, these cookies are a simple yet special treasure. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try and enjoy the joyous comfort that comes in every bite!
Print
Pecan Sugar Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightfully nutty and sweet, these Pecan Sugar Cookies are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Soft buttery cookies rolled in sugar deliver a satisfying crunch and rich flavor, complemented by finely chopped pecans for a delightful texture. Ideal for holiday gifting or everyday treats, these classic American cookies bring warmth and charm to your cookie jar.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup finely chopped pecans
For Rolling
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure non-stick baking and easy cleanup.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which incorporates air and creates a tender texture.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until the ingredients are well combined, adding flavor and moisture to the dough.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and seasoning.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overworking the dough. Stir in the finely chopped pecans to incorporate a crunchy nutty flavor.
- Form and Roll Cookies: Scoop the dough into 1-tablespoon-sized balls. Roll each ball in the remaining ¼ cup granulated sugar to add a sweet coating that will caramelize slightly when baked. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake: Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden, indicating they are perfectly cooked with a tender center.
- Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps prevent breakage and maintains the perfect texture.
Notes
- Toast the pecans before adding them to the dough to enhance their flavor and provide a richer taste.
- These cookies freeze well; store them in an airtight container for up to three months for convenience.
- They make wonderful holiday gifts or everyday treats that family and friends will love.
