If you have a soft spot for rich, comforting sweets, then this Pecan Pie Cookies – Buttery, Nutty, and Perfectly Sweet! Recipe is about to become your new favorite treat. Imagine a tender, buttery cookie base that gives way to a gooey pecan filling bursting with caramelized sweetness and just the right crunch. These cookies are like a mini pecan pie experience wrapped in a bite-sized package, perfect for sharing or savoring solo. They deliver that classic holiday warmth with every bite, but honestly, they’re so good you’ll want to enjoy them all year round!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Pecan Pie Cookies – Buttery, Nutty, and Perfectly Sweet! Recipe has a special role to play. From the creamy butter that makes the dough so soft, to the chopped pecans that add irresistible crunch and flavor, every component comes together to create a mouthwatering balance of textures and tastes.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides a rich, creamy base and tenderizes the cookies perfectly.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps cookies brown beautifully.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: Brings deep molasses notes for warmth and moisture in the dough.
- 1 large egg: Binds ingredients together and gives structure to the dough.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with its sweet, aromatic charm.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the sturdy yet tender cookie base.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Gives the cookies a subtle lift without puffing them up too much.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies flavors.
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans: Adds that signature nutty crunch that makes pecan delights so addictive.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (for filling): Creates the luscious caramel-like filling in the centers.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream: Gives the filling a smooth, velvety texture.
- 1 tablespoon butter (for filling): Enriches the filling, making it decadently rich.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling): Infuses the filling with warm sweetness.
How to Make Pecan Pie Cookies – Buttery, Nutty, and Perfectly Sweet! Recipe
Step 1: Prepare your oven and cookie dough
First, preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter together with granulated sugar and 1/2 cup of brown sugar until the mixture is light, creamy, and fluffy — this step is key for that tender cookie texture we all love. Next, add the egg and vanilla extract, continuing to mix until everything is well combined and perfectly smooth.
Step 2: Combine dry ingredients and form the dough
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt, ensuring that the leavening is evenly distributed. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until a soft dough forms. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies, so be gentle. Once your dough is ready, scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and roll them into balls, placing each on your lined baking sheet. Use your thumb to press a small indentation into the center of each cookie ball — this will hold that heavenly pecan filling!
Step 3: Make the pecan filling
Now for the star of the show: the filling! In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, heavy cream, butter, and vanilla extract. Stir constantly until everything dissolves into a smooth, glossy syrup. Add the chopped pecans and cook for another one to two minutes to toast them gently and marry the flavors. Be sure to keep stirring so the mixture doesn’t stick or burn.
Step 4: Fill and bake the cookies
Spoon a small amount of this gooey pecan filling into each cookie’s indentation. Don’t overfill to avoid spilling, but make sure there’s enough to get those signature sweet, nutty bursts in every bite. Bake in your preheated oven for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the edges turn a delicate golden hue. Once out of the oven, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring to a wire rack — this helps them firm up just right.
How to Serve Pecan Pie Cookies – Buttery, Nutty, and Perfectly Sweet! Recipe
Garnishes
While these cookies are delicious as-is, a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate can elevate them even more. A light dusting adds a festive touch, while chocolate drizzle makes them feel extra special for holiday gatherings or gift-giving.
Side Dishes
Pair these cookies with a steaming cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk to balance out their buttery richness. They’re fantastic alongside vanilla ice cream for a dessert that’s both playful and comforting. For a brunch twist, serve with fresh fruit.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange these cookies on a rustic wooden board with pecan halves scattered around for a cozy presentation. Wrapping a few in parchment paper tied with twine makes for charming homemade gifts. You can also sandwich a bit of cream cheese frosting between two cookies to make delightful pecan pie cookie sandwiches!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your fresh-baked Pecan Pie Cookies – Buttery, Nutty, and Perfectly Sweet! Recipe, store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and flavorful for up to a week, making it easy to enjoy these treats throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, these cookies freeze beautifully. Place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer them to a heavy-duty freezer bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to three months. When you’re ready, thaw at room temperature for an easy indulgence whenever the craving strikes.
Reheating
To warm up frozen or stored cookies, pop them in a preheated 300°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes. This refreshes the buttery softness and revitalizes the nutty, gooey filling so each bite tastes as heavenly as the day you baked them.
FAQs
Can I substitute pecans with another nut in this recipe?
Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds can be great alternatives if you prefer a different nutty flavor or need to adapt due to allergies. Just keep in mind that pecans have a unique buttery texture that best matches this cookie’s character.
Is it necessary to use heavy cream in the filling?
Yes, heavy cream is ideal because it creates that rich, velvety texture in the filling. Using milk or a lighter cream won’t give quite the same luscious consistency, so it’s worth sticking to heavy cream for this recipe.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
You sure can! The dough can be made a day ahead and kept in the fridge, well wrapped to prevent drying out. When you’re ready, simply shape and bake your cookies as directed. This can be a great time saver for busy baking days.
How do I prevent the filling from overflowing during baking?
Be careful not to fill each cookie indentation too much. A small spoonful is enough because the filling softens and spreads as it bakes. If you overfill, the filling can spill over edges and create a mess.
Are these cookies suitable for vegetarians?
Yes! This recipe uses no meat or gelatin products, making these Pecan Pie Cookies – Buttery, Nutty, and Perfectly Sweet! Recipe perfect for vegetarian diets while still delivering all the rich flavors you’d expect.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about the combination of buttery cookie and luscious pecan filling, and this Pecan Pie Cookies – Buttery, Nutty, and Perfectly Sweet! Recipe nails it every single time. Whether you’re baking for holidays, special occasions, or just to treat yourself, these cookies bring warmth and joy with every bite. I can’t wait for you to try them and experience that delightful balance of textures and flavors that make these cookies so irresistibly good!
Print
Pecan Pie Cookies – Buttery, Nutty, and Perfectly Sweet! Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 34 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these Pecan Pie Cookies that perfectly combine a buttery, tender cookie base with a rich, nutty pecan pie filling. These American-style holiday cookies offer a delightful balance of sweetness and crunch, making them the ideal treat for festive gatherings or everyday snacking.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Pecan Filling
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and baking sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
- Cream the butter and sugars: In a large bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which will help create a tender cookie texture.
- Add egg and vanilla: Beat in the large egg and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until fully incorporated, adding moisture and flavor to the dough.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure even distribution before adding to the wet ingredients.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture and mix until a cohesive dough forms, being careful not to overmix to maintain a tender crumb.
- Form cookie shapes: Scoop 1-tablespoon portions of dough and roll each into a ball. Place the dough balls evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet. Use your thumb to make a small indentation in the center of each ball to hold the pecan filling.
- Prepare the pecan filling: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 1/2 cup brown sugar, heavy cream, 1 tablespoon butter, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened.
- Add pecans to filling: Stir in the finely chopped pecans and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes to meld the flavors and warm the nuts.
- Fill the cookies: Spoon a small amount of the warm pecan filling into the indentation of each cookie, distributing evenly to create a nutty center.
- Bake the cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the cookie edges turn lightly golden brown, signaling they are done.
- Cool the cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to set, then carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring they maintain their shape and texture.
Notes
- For extra depth of flavor, toast the chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes before adding them to the filling.
- You can drizzle the cooled cookies with melted chocolate for an elegant and festive touch that complements the nutty filling.
