Butter Pecan Cookies: A Warm, Cozy Treat for Every Occasion
There’s something about the aroma of butter and toasted pecans filling the kitchen that instantly brings comfort. These butter pecan cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion – whether it’s a busy weeknight, a lazy weekend, or a holiday gathering. I first discovered this recipe when I wanted to make something sweet for a family gathering but didn’t have time for a complicated dessert. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, I had a batch of warm, buttery, nutty cookies ready to enjoy. Not only are they a crowd-pleaser, but they also have a wonderful balance of flavors that can satisfy any sweet tooth.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Texture and Flavor: These cookies have the perfect balance of crispy edges and soft, chewy centers. The rich butter flavor paired with the crunch of the pecans creates a delightful contrast in every bite.
- Ease: This recipe requires just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, making it a perfect option for a quick homemade treat. Plus, the dough can be made ahead and refrigerated for a couple of days, making this a great make-ahead cookie.
- Versatility: You can easily customize this recipe to suit different dietary preferences. Whether you’re looking to make them dairy-free, gluten-free, or add a little extra spice, these cookies are adaptable to suit all your cravings.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re serving them at a casual get-together, potluck, or family dinner, these cookies are always a hit. They’re the perfect dessert for anyone who loves buttery, nutty, and sweet treats.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- ½ cup brown sugar (optional for extra richness)
- 2 tablespoons milk (if needed for dough consistency)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent the cookies from sticking.
2. Toast the Pecans
In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the chopped pecans for 4-5 minutes until they’re golden brown and fragrant. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn! Once toasted, set them aside to cool.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes with a hand mixer or stand mixer. If you prefer a richer cookie, you can add the brown sugar here for extra depth of flavor.
4. Add Wet Ingredients
Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat until fully combined and smooth.
5. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Fold in the Pecans
Gently fold in the toasted pecans, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough. If the dough seems too thick, you can add a tablespoon or two of milk to loosen it up.
7. Scoop and Bake
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart. Flatten each ball slightly with the back of a spoon or your fingers. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are set.
8. Cool and Serve
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature!
Variations
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: Swap the butter with a plant-based butter alternative and use a dairy-free chocolate or omit it entirely.
- Extra Spice: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor.
- More Nuts: Mix in different nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, for a unique twist on the classic butter pecan cookie.
How to Serve
These butter pecan cookies are perfect on their own with a hot cup of coffee or tea. They also make a great addition to any dessert table at a family gathering or potluck. For an extra touch, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. Garnish with a few extra toasted pecans on top to add a bit of flair and texture.
Recipe Tips
- Storage: Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They also freeze well for up to three months, so feel free to make a double batch and store half for later.
- Reheating: If you prefer warm cookies, reheat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or place them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-6 minutes.
- Making Ahead: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 48 hours before baking. Just allow it to come to room temperature before scooping and baking.
- Pecan Substitutes: If you don’t have pecans, you can use walnuts or any other nut of your choice.
- Pasta Tips: Not applicable for this recipe, but always make sure your dough is well-chilled before baking to prevent the cookies from spreading too much.
Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: About 24 cookies
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
While you can use salted butter, I recommend using unsalted butter to control the amount of salt in the recipe. If using salted butter, you can reduce or omit the added salt.
How can I make these cookies chewier?
For chewier cookies, try adding an extra egg yolk or reduce the baking time slightly. The longer you bake them, the crisper they’ll be, so be sure to keep an eye on them!
Can I add chocolate chips to this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re a fan of chocolate, feel free to add ½ cup of chocolate chips for a chocolate-pecan variation. It adds a rich layer of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the pecans.
Conclusion
These butter pecan cookies are more than just a simple dessert—they’re a cozy, comforting treat that will have everyone asking for the recipe. With their buttery, nutty flavor and the option for endless variations, they’re sure to become a new favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether you’re making them for a holiday celebration, a weeknight treat, or just because, these cookies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So, get baking, and enjoy the warmth and joy these butter pecan cookies bring to your home!
