Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe
Introduction
Butter pecan is one of those timeless flavors that instantly evokes comfort. Whether in ice cream, cakes, or cookies, the combination of rich butter and nutty pecans is a match made in heaven. These Butter Pecan Cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with caramel-like sweetness from brown sugar, balanced by the crunch of toasted pecans.
They’re perfect for holiday cookie trays, afternoon tea, or simply as a treat to brighten your day. With their golden-brown edges, buttery aroma, and pecan topping, these cookies look as good as they taste. Best of all, they’re easy to make with pantry staples and a handful of pecans.
Ingredients Breakdown
1 cup chopped pecans – Toasted pecans add crunch and nutty depth.
7 tbsp unsalted butter – The foundation of flavor; unsalted allows control over saltiness.
1/3 cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps with structure.
1 cup brown sugar – Provides moisture and a caramel-like flavor.
2 eggs – Bind the dough and add richness.
1 tbsp pure vanilla extract – Enhances flavor and aroma.
2 cups all-purpose flour – The base of the cookie dough.
1/2 tsp baking soda – Helps cookies rise slightly and stay soft.
Pinch of salt – Balances sweetness.
Pecan halves – Pressed on top for decoration and extra crunch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and creamy.
This step incorporates air, giving cookies a tender texture.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in eggs one at a time.
Add vanilla extract and mix until smooth.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add to wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
Step 5: Add Pecans
Fold in chopped pecans.
Dough should be thick but scoopable.
Step 6: Shape Cookies
Scoop medium-sized balls of dough onto prepared sheets.
Press a pecan half on top of each cookie.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 10–15 minutes, until golden brown.
Cool on sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire racks.
Baking Tips
Toast pecans before adding for deeper flavor.
Don’t overmix once flour is added—keeps cookies tender.
Chill dough for 30 minutes if it feels too soft.
Use room temperature butter for proper creaming.
Watch baking time—cookies should be golden but not dry.
Variations
Chocolate Chip Butter Pecan Cookies: Add chocolate chips for extra indulgence.
Maple Butter Pecan Cookies: Replace granulated sugar with maple syrup.
Salted Caramel Pecan Cookies: Drizzle with caramel and sprinkle sea salt.
Spiced Pecan Cookies: Add cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.
Gluten-Free Version: Use almond flour instead of all-purpose.
Serving Ideas
Serve warm with a glass of milk.
Pair with coffee or tea for an afternoon treat.
Add to holiday cookie platters.
Package in tins for gifts.
Storage
Room Temperature: Store in airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months.
Make Ahead: Dough can be refrigerated for 24 hours before baking.
Nutrition (per cookie, approx.)
Calories: ~180
Protein: ~3g
Fat: ~9g
Carbs: ~22g
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Classic flavor: Buttery, nutty, and sweet.
Easy to make: Simple steps, no fancy equipment.
Versatile: Works for holidays, parties, or everyday treats.
Crowd-pleaser: Everyone loves butter pecan.
Beautiful presentation: Pecan halves make them look bakery-worthy.
Conclusion
Butter Pecan Cookies are the perfect blend of rich butter, sweet brown sugar, and crunchy pecans. They’re simple yet elegant, making them ideal for any occasion. Bake a batch, share them with loved ones, and enjoy the timeless flavor of butter pecan in cookie form.