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
Scale
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.
