Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a cookie recipe that’s buttery, nutty, and filled with the comforting flavors of toasted pecans, look no further! These Butter Pecan Cookies are soft in the center with a delightful crunch along the edges, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love These Butter Pecan Cookies

These cookies are a delightful blend of rich buttery flavor and the warm nuttiness of toasted pecans. The addition of cinnamon adds a cozy hint of spice, while optional toffee bits bring a subtle caramel flavor that complements the overall sweetness. Whether you’re baking them for a holiday gathering or simply satisfying a cookie craving, these cookies will impress everyone with their irresistible taste and texture.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these delicious Butter Pecan Cookies:

• 1 cup Unsalted Butter, melted (ensure it’s warm, not hot)
• ½ cup Granulated Sugar
• 1 cup Brown Sugar
• 2 Large Eggs
• 1.5 teaspoons Vanilla Extract
• 2.5 cups All-Purpose Flour
• 1 teaspoon Cinnamon Powder
• 1 teaspoon Cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon Baking Soda
• ½ teaspoon Baking Powder
• 1.5 cups Pecans, roughly chopped (unsalted and preferably toasted)
• ½ cup Toffee Bits (optional)

Ingredient Substitutions and Alternatives

• If you prefer a less sweet cookie, you can reduce the granulated sugar to ⅓ cup.
• For a richer flavor, substitute some or all of the butter with browned butter.
• To make the recipe gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Swap pecans with walnuts or almonds if preferred.

this RECIPE

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make these Butter Pecan Cookies, you will need:

• Large mixing bowls
• Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• Baking trays
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop or tablespoon

Step-by-Step Preparation for Perfect Butter Pecan Cookies

1. Cream the Butter and Sugars
   In a large mixing bowl, cream together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is essential for achieving that perfect cookie texture.
2. Add Wet Ingredients
   Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until smooth and fully combined, making sure there are no streaks of egg or butter.
3. Incorporate Dry Ingredients
   Add the all-purpose flour, cinnamon powder, cornstarch, baking soda, and baking powder to the bowl. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookies.
4. Fold in Pecans and Toffee Bits
   Gently fold in the roughly chopped pecans and toffee bits (if using) until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
5. Chill the Dough
   Cover the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for 30-45 minutes. This step helps to firm up the dough, making it easier to handle and resulting in thicker, chewier cookies.
6. Shape the Cookies
   Scoop out small portions of the chilled dough and roll them into balls using your hands. The dough may feel crumbly at first, but the warmth of your hands will help it come together.Optional: Roll each dough ball in granulated sugar for an extra hint of sweetness and a slight crunch.
7. Prepare for Baking
   Place the dough balls onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
8. Bake
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for 11-14 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are still soft and slightly “poofy.” They will deflate slightly as they cool. If you prefer a flatter cookie, gently press them down with the back of a spoon while they are still warm.
9. Cool and Enjoy
   Let the cookies cool on the baking tray for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy them warm with a glass of milk or store them for later!

Tips for Baking the Best Butter Pecan Cookies

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking, resulting in a thicker, chewier texture.
• Use Toasted Pecans: Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor, adding a delicious depth to each bite.
• Don’t Overbake: For soft and chewy cookies, remove them from the oven when the edges are golden and the centers still look slightly underdone. They will firm up as they cool.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Chilling the Dough: Skipping this step can lead to cookies that spread too much and become flat and crispy.
• Overmixing the Dough: This can result in tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Ensure that the butter is melted and the eggs are at room temperature to help the dough come together smoothly.

Variations and Substitutions

• Chocolate Chip Pecan Cookies: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips for a delightful chocolatey twist.
• Nut-Free Option: Substitute the pecans with dried cranberries or raisins for a nut-free version.
• Gluten-Free Butter Pecan Cookies: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour to make these cookies suitable for gluten-free diets.

How to Store Butter Pecan Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh:

• At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• In the Refrigerator: Keep in an airtight container for up to 10 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the dough balls on a baking tray until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 1-2 minutes to the baking time.

Serving Suggestions and Presentation Tips

• Serve Warm: These cookies are best enjoyed slightly warm with a cold glass of milk or a cup of coffee.
• Gift Idea: Stack a few cookies in a cellophane bag, tie with a ribbon, and give them as a homemade gift.
• Party Treat: Arrange on a platter with other cookies and sweets for a delightful dessert table display.

Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe FAQs

• Can I make the dough ahead of time?
  Yes, you can make the dough up to 48 hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator until ready to use.
• What if I don’t have all-purpose flour?
  You can use whole wheat flour, but the texture will be denser. A 1:1 gluten-free flour blend works as well.
• How do I keep my cookies from spreading too much?
  Chilling the dough is key to preventing excessive spreading. Make sure your baking tray is cool before placing the dough on it.

Conclusion

These Butter Pecan Cookies are a perfect blend of sweet, buttery, and nutty flavors that will satisfy any cookie lover’s cravings. Whether you enjoy them fresh from the oven or save them for later, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. So, gather your ingredients and try this delicious recipe today! If you love it, don’t forget to share it with your friends and subscribe to our blog for more tasty recipes!

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