If you’re in the mood for a sweet treat that combines the rich flavors of butter and the crunch of pecans, these butter pecan cookies will hit the spot. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy afternoon snack or a festive holiday gathering. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a batch that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie that melts in your mouth, with the nutty goodness of roasted pecans adding a delightful crunch. The buttery aroma wafting through your kitchen will be enough to make anyone feel at home. And the best part? They’re incredibly simple to make, so you can enjoy fresh-baked cookies without the fuss.
Irresistibly Buttery and Nutty Cookies
Butter pecan cookies bring a delightful blend of rich butter flavor and the satisfying crunch of pecans. Each cookie boasts a soft center with slightly crispy edges, offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience that pairs wonderfully with your favorite coffee or tea.
The toasty aroma of these cookies baking in the oven creates a warm atmosphere, inviting everyone to gather around and enjoy a sweet treat. The combination of the buttery dough and toasted pecans creates a comforting and familiar flavor that many cherish.
Creating the Perfect Dough
To achieve the ideal texture, start by creaming together softened butter with a combination of brown and granulated sugars. This step not only contributes to the cookies’ sweetness but also helps to incorporate air, resulting in a light and fluffy dough.
Once the sugars and butter are well mixed, incorporating the eggs and vanilla extract enhances the flavor while adding moisture. The process of gradually adding dry ingredients ensures that the dough remains tender, allowing for a soft cookie once baked.
The Role of Pecans
Pecans are the star of this cookie recipe, providing a nutty crunch that perfectly contrasts the soft dough. Toasting the pecans before adding them to the mix intensifies their flavor, making every bite more enjoyable.
Chopping the pecans into smaller pieces allows them to be evenly distributed throughout the dough, ensuring that each cookie contains that delightful nutty goodness. For those who prefer a more prominent pecan presence, topping the cookies with whole pecans adds a decorative touch.
Baking Tips for Success
When it comes to baking, proper temperature and timing are crucial. Preheating the oven guarantees that the cookies bake evenly, while using parchment paper prevents sticking and promotes uniform browning.
Spacing the dough balls adequately on the baking sheet allows room for spreading, ensuring each cookie maintains its shape and texture. Keeping an eye on the baking time will help achieve those lightly golden edges, creating the ideal cookie.
Serving and Enjoying
Once baked, it’s essential to let the cookies cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. This step allows them to firm up and makes for easier handling.
For an extra touch, a light dusting of powdered sugar can be added just before serving. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds a hint of sweetness that complements the nutty flavor.
Pairing Suggestions
These butter pecan cookies are delightful on their own but can be elevated when paired with beverages. A steaming cup of coffee or a warm cup of tea complements the cookies beautifully, making for a cozy snack.
Whether enjoyed during a quiet afternoon or as part of a festive gathering, these cookies are sure to please. Their rich flavors and inviting texture make them an excellent choice for any occasion.
Irresistibly Buttery and Nutty Cookies
These butter pecan cookies are a delightful combination of buttery richness and crunchy pecans. The cookies are soft, with a slightly crispy edge, and a melt-in-your-mouth texture that pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
- Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, and then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in the toasted pecans.
- Scoop and Bake: Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Servings: 24 cookies
- Calories: 150kcal
- Fat: 8g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
