Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe

There is something irresistibly delightful about a perfectly baked Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe that fills your kitchen with the warm aroma of toasted nuts and rich butter. These cookies offer a beautiful balance of crispy edges and tender centers, with pecans lending a crunchy, nutty contrast that elevates the classic buttery sweetness. Once you try this Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe, you’ll find it hard to settle for any other cookie, making it an instant favorite for gatherings or a cozy treat with your favorite cup of tea.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple ingredients are the heart of any great cookie, and this recipe is no exception. Each item plays a crucial role in creating the perfect texture, flavor, and appearance that makes these cookies so special.

• Unsalted butter (1 cup, room temperature): Provides the rich, creamy base and helps achieve the perfect tender crumb.
• Granulated sugar (3/4 cup): Adds sweetness and contributes to the crispy edges.
• Brown sugar (3/4 cup, packed): Brings moisture and a deep, caramel-like flavor for that chewy texture.
• Large eggs (2, room temperature): Bind the ingredients together and add richness.
• Vanilla extract (2 tsp): Enhances the sweetness with a warm, aromatic note.
• All-purpose flour (2 1/4 cups, sifted): The structure backbone of the cookie, sifted for lightness.
• Baking soda (1 tsp): Helps the cookies rise and spread perfectly.
• Salt (1/2 tsp): Balances the sweetness and intensifies flavors.
• Chopped pecans (1 cup, toasted): Adds that signature buttery crunch and nutty aroma.

How to Make Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the perfect baking temperature when it comes time to bake. While the oven warms up, make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature, as this helps them incorporate smoothly for a better dough texture.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This aeration is what gives the cookies their tender crumb and slight lift.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to create a smooth, uniform batter. Stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the dough with that classic, comforting flavor.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

Gradually mix in the sifted all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Mixing just until combined will keep the cookies tender and prevent them from becoming tough.

Step 5: Fold in the Toasted Pecans

Gently fold the toasted chopped pecans into the dough. Toasting the pecans beforehand intensifies their nutty flavor and adds a wonderful crunch that is signature to this Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe.

Step 6: Shape and Bake

Scoop rounded tablespoons of the cookie dough onto parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing each dough ball to allow for spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges turn a gorgeous golden brown. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

How to Serve Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

If you want to add a little pizzazz to your Butter Pecan Cookies, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top just as they come out of the oven. This will highlight the buttery sweetness while adding a sophisticated twist.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee or tea. Their rich, nutty flavor enhances creamy or robust beverages, making them the perfect companion for your afternoon break or after-dinner treat.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun party presentation, arrange the Butter Pecan Cookies on a rustic wooden board alongside fresh fruit, nuts, and cheese. You can also sandwich two cookies together with a spread of vanilla or chocolate buttercream for an indulgent twist everyone will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to one week, keeping that tender texture and buttery flavor intact.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze unbaked dough balls on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, just pop them in the oven from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. Baked cookies can also be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating

To enjoy cookies like freshly baked, reheat them briefly in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. This brings back that just-baked softness with a lovely warm aroma filling your kitchen once again.

FAQs

Can I substitute butter with margarine or oil?

Butter is essential in this Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe because it provides flavor and texture that margarine or oil can’t replicate. Margarine may work, but the cookies won’t have the same rich taste or crisp edges. Oil is not recommended because it changes the cookie’s texture entirely.

How do I toast pecans properly?

Toast pecans by spreading them out on a baking sheet and placing them in a 350°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring once or twice. They’re ready when fragrant and slightly darker but be careful not to burn them!

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. For best results, look for blends that already include xanthan gum or add a half teaspoon yourself to maintain texture.

What if I only have salted butter?

You can use salted butter, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to 1/4 teaspoon to avoid an overly salty cookie. The flavor difference will be subtle but noticeable.

How do I keep my cookies soft instead of crispy?

For softer cookies, slightly underbake them by removing them from the oven the moment the edges set but centers still look a bit doughy. They’ll firm up as they cool, but remain tender inside.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a nostalgic cookie recipe that perfectly balances buttery richness and nutty crunch, this Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe should be your go-to. It’s simple to make but packs a lot of flavor and texture, sure to become a favorite shared over many smiles and coffee cups. Give it a try and watch these cookies disappear faster than you can say “seconds, please!”

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