If you’re a fan of the rich, nutty flavor of pecans paired with the buttery goodness of a classic cookie, then Butter Pecan Cookies are an absolute delight you shouldn’t miss! These cookies boast crisp edges and a soft, chewy center, packed with toasted pecans that provide a satisfying crunch in every bite. Whether you’re planning to bake for a special occasion or simply yearning for a sweet treat, these cookies will surely fulfill your dessert cravings. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and delightful nutty flavor, they’re perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy afternoon snack!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Butter Pecan Cookies are everything you desire in a cookie—rich, buttery, and filled with crunchy pecans for that extra texture. They’re incredibly easy to whip up, and you probably already have everything you need in your pantry. The chopped pecans bring a delightful crunch that pairs perfectly with the soft, buttery cookie base, creating a truly melt-in-your-mouth experience. Plus, for an elegant touch, you can add whole pecan halves on top before baking!

The Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 ½ cups chopped pecans
• 1/2 cup buttered pecan halves (for topping, optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
2. Cream the butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat them together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the eggs and vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract until everything is well incorporated.
4. Mix the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually incorporate this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.
5. Fold in the pecans: Carefully fold the chopped pecans into the cookie dough, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout.
6. Scoop the dough: Use a cookie scoop or a tablespoon to drop rounded dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. If you’re feeling fancy, press a buttered pecan half onto the top of each cookie for an elegant finish.
7. Bake the cookies: Place your cookies in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are lightly golden, while the centers will remain soft. Remember, they’ll firm up slightly as they cool.
8. Cool and serve: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Now, sit back and enjoy your delicious creation!

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: These cookies are best enjoyed fresh! Pair them with a cup of coffee, tea, or a cold glass of milk. They’re an excellent addition to holiday cookie platters or simply as a delightful afternoon snack.
• Storage: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to store them longer, both the cookie dough and baked cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Helpful Notes

• To amplify the nutty flavor, consider toasting the pecans before adding them to the cookie dough. Spread the chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast them in a 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway through until golden and fragrant.
• If a chewier cookie is what you’re after, reduce the baking time by 1-2 minutes. For a crispier texture, allow them to bake a minute or two longer.
• If you prefer salted butter, feel free to use it! Just cut back on the added salt to 1/4 teaspoon to maintain balance.

FAQs

1. Can I use different nuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts if you’re looking for a variation in texture and flavor.

2. Can I make the cookie dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 48 hours. Chilling the dough can enhance the flavors. Alternatively, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months.

3. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Sure! Simply swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that contains a binding agent, such as xanthan gum, for optimal results.

4. How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
Chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking can help maintain their shape and prevent excessive spreading in the oven.

5. Can I add chocolate chips to this recipe?
Definitely! For a chocolatey twist, feel free to add a cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips to the dough for an indulgent surprise.