Butter Pecan Cookies

When it comes to homemade treats, few can rival the delightful taste of Butter Pecan Cookies. These cookies bring together the rich, buttery flavor of pecans with the perfect hint of sweetness. The texture? Think soft and chewy with a crisp edge, making each bite an absolute dream. Did you know that pecans are known as a “superfood”? They’re not just delicious, but also packed with healthy fats. This recipe is particularly special because it requires minimal time and effort, making it the perfect weekend baking project for you and your family. If you’ve enjoyed the classic chocolate chip cookie on our blog, you’re in for a treat with this recipe! Grab your apron, and let’s dive into these scrumptious cookies that are sure to win over hearts—remember, the way to someone’s heart is through their stomach.

What are Butter Pecan Cookies?

So, what exactly are Butter Pecan Cookies? Imagine this: you take a bite and are instantly greeted with the nutty aroma of toasted pecans, blended seamlessly with a warm, buttery cookie dough. These aren’t just your average cookies; they are a delightful blend of Southern charm and family tradition. Did you know that pecans were considered a luxury ingredient in the 18th century? Having butter pecan anything was quite the status symbol! Perhaps the phrase “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach” rings true here, as these cookies might just be the key to winning everyone over in your household. So, why not give this recipe a spin and see if you can create your own batch of irresistible goodies?

Why You’ll Love This Butter Pecan Cookies

There are plenty of reasons to whip up a batch of Butter Pecan Cookies! First and foremost, the star of the show is the toasted pecans. Their crunchy texture and nutty flavor elevate these cookies to a whole new level. Second, making these cookies at home saves you money compared to buying gourmet cookies from the store, and they taste fresher, too! Lastly, the combination of butter and sugar creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s simply irresistible. Think of them as a delightful cousin to the classic snickerdoodle—equally comforting but with a unique twist. So, treat yourself and your loved ones to something special by trying your hand at this fuss-free recipe!

How to Make Butter Pecan Cookies

Quick Overview

Making Butter Pecan Cookies is as easy as pie—well, easier actually! With just 30 minutes of prep time and 12 minutes of baking, you can have delicious cookies right out of the oven in no time. You’ll love the aromatic blend of buttery richness and nutty pecans, giving you a fantastic cookie experience!

Key Ingredients for Butter Pecan Cookies

To make these heavenly cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Toast the pecans: In a skillet over medium heat, toast the chopped pecans until they become fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside to cool.
3. Cream the butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
6. Combine dry and wet ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing just until moistened.
7. Fold in pecans: Gently fold in the toasted pecans until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
8. Scoop onto baking sheets: Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
9. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
10. Cool: Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

What to Serve Butter Pecan Cookies With

These cookies are perfect on their own, but if you’re looking to create a delightful spread, consider pairing them with a warm cup of coffee or a tall glass of milk. For a Southern twist, serve them alongside pecan pie or whipped cream for a dessert spread that will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Top Tips for Perfecting Butter Pecan Cookies

1. Don’t skip toasting the pecans: This step enhances their flavor significantly!
2. Chill the dough: For thicker cookies, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking.
3. Experiment with mix-ins: Try adding chocolate chips or dried fruits for a different twist!
4. Don’t overbake: For the softest cookies, remove from the oven when the edges are golden but centers are still soft.

Storing and Reheating Tips

To store your Butter Pecan Cookies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to a week. If you want to save them for later, these cookies freeze beautifully! Just put them in a freezer-safe container, separated by parchment paper, and they can last up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that fresh-baked taste!

Ready to treat yourself and your loved ones to Butter Pecan Cookies? Their delightful nutty flavor and soft texture make them a family favorite. Give this recipe a whirl and enjoy the sweet rewards of your efforts!

Butter Pecan Cookies

Delightful cookies that combine the rich, buttery flavor of pecans with a perfect hint of sweetness. Soft and chewy with a crisp edge.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 12 minutes mins

Total Time 42 minutes mins

Servings: 24 cookies

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American, Southern

Calories: 130

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Cookie Base

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Use 2 sticks of butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed Light or dark brown sugar may be used
• 2 large eggs Ensure eggs are at room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt

Pecans

• 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted Toast pecans for enhanced flavor

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a skillet over medium heat, toast the chopped pecans until fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside to cool.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract until well combined.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing just until moistened.
7. Gently fold in the toasted pecans until evenly distributed.

Baking

1. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
2. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
3. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

For thicker cookies, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. Experiment with mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruits. For the softest cookies, remove from the oven when edges are golden but centers are still soft.