Pecan Pie Cookies: Discover the Sweet Delight Inside!

Introduction to Pecan Pie Cookies

As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to baking. That’s why I absolutely adore these Pecan Pie Cookies! They capture the rich, nutty flavors of traditional pecan pie but come together in a delightful cookie form. Perfect for a quick treat after a long day or to impress guests at your next gathering, these cookies are a sweet solution for any occasion. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again!

Pecan Pie Cookies: Discover the Sweet Delight Inside!

Print Recipe

Pecan Pie Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the flavors of traditional pecan pie in a convenient cookie form, perfect for any occasion.

• Author: Chef Samantha
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: 24 cookies
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1 cup corn syrup
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
3. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until combined.
6. Fold in the chopped pecans and mini chocolate chips if using.
7. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
9. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

• For a richer flavor, toast the pecans before adding them to the dough.
• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to a week.
• These cookies can be frozen for up to three months.

Why You’ll Love This Pecan Pie Cookies

These Pecan Pie Cookies are a game-changer for busy lives! They’re quick to whip up, taking just 27 minutes from start to finish. The taste? Oh, it’s like a warm hug from your favorite dessert. With a chewy texture and a delightful crunch from the pecans, they’re sure to please everyone. Plus, they’re versatile enough for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family night or a festive gathering with friends!

Ingredients for Pecan Pie Cookies

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Pecan Pie Cookies. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Unsalted butter: This adds richness and moisture to the cookies. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
• Brown sugar: Packed brown sugar gives a deep, caramel-like flavor that complements the pecans beautifully.
• Granulated sugar: This adds sweetness and helps achieve that perfect cookie texture.
• Eggs: They bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cookies’ chewy texture.
• Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor, making each bite more delightful.
• All-purpose flour: The base of the cookies, providing structure and stability.
• Baking soda: This leavening agent helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
• Salt: Just a pinch balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• Chopped pecans: The star of the show! They add a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor.
• Corn syrup: This gives the cookies a chewy texture and a hint of sweetness, reminiscent of traditional pecan pie.
• Mini chocolate chips (optional): For a fun twist, these add a touch of chocolatey goodness that pairs well with pecans.

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy baking!

How to Make Pecan Pie Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) is crucial for baking these Pecan Pie Cookies. It ensures that the cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown color. A hot oven helps the cookies rise properly, giving them that delightful chewy texture we all love.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. This process is essential for creating a light and fluffy cookie texture. The air you incorporate while mixing helps the cookies rise beautifully. Aim for a creamy consistency, and don’t rush this step—it’s worth it!

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, add the eggs and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. The eggs bind everything together, while the vanilla adds a warm, inviting flavor. This combination is what makes your Pecan Pie Cookies taste so delicious and comforting. Mix until just combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Mixing dry ingredients separately is important to ensure even distribution of the leavening agent. This step helps prevent any clumps and guarantees that every cookie rises perfectly.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies. You want to maintain that tender texture. A few flour streaks are okay; they’ll disappear as you fold in the next ingredients.

Step 6: Fold in Pecans and Optional Chocolate Chips

Now it’s time to fold in the chopped pecans and mini chocolate chips if you’re using them. The pecans add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, while the chocolate chips bring a touch of sweetness. This combination is what makes these cookies truly irresistible!

Step 7: Prepare for Baking

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave some space between each cookie, as they will spread while baking. This step is key to achieving those perfectly shaped Pecan Pie Cookies.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary. You want them to be slightly soft in the center; they’ll firm up as they cool.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling time helps them set perfectly. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to a week, but I doubt they’ll last that long!

Tips for Success

• Always use softened butter for easy mixing and a better texture.
• Toast the pecans before adding them for an extra depth of flavor.
• Don’t skip the cooling time; it helps the cookies firm up nicely.
• For uniform cookies, use a cookie scoop to measure the dough.
• Experiment with different mix-ins like dried fruit or nuts for variety!

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls: A large bowl for mixing and a smaller one for dry ingredients. Any size will do!
• Electric mixer: A hand mixer works great, but a whisk and some elbow grease can do the job too.
• Baking sheet: Use a standard cookie sheet or any flat baking pan.
• Parchment paper: This helps prevent sticking; aluminum foil can be a substitute.
• Cookie scoop or spoon: For evenly sized cookies, but a regular spoon works just fine!

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious gluten-free option.
• Nut-Free: Replace pecans with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely for a nut-free treat.
• Vegan: Use coconut oil instead of butter, flax eggs in place of regular eggs, and maple syrup instead of corn syrup.
• Spiced Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor that complements the pecans.
• Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle melted caramel over the cooled cookies for an extra indulgent touch.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair your Pecan Pie Cookies with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
• Serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
• For a festive touch, arrange cookies on a decorative platter with fresh pecans and seasonal fruits.
• Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce for an extra indulgent presentation.

FAQs about Pecan Pie Cookies

Can I make Pecan Pie Cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to three days. Just scoop the dough onto the baking sheet when you’re ready to bake. This makes it super convenient for busy days!

How do I store Pecan Pie Cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Can I substitute the pecans with other nuts?
Yes! Feel free to swap pecans for walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts. Each nut brings its own unique flavor, so experiment to find your favorite combination!

What can I use instead of corn syrup?
If you prefer not to use corn syrup, you can substitute it with maple syrup or honey. Both options will add a lovely sweetness and a hint of flavor to your cookies.

Are Pecan Pie Cookies suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes! Simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. This way, everyone can enjoy these delicious cookies, regardless of dietary restrictions!

Final Thoughts

Making Pecan Pie Cookies is more than just baking; it’s about creating sweet memories in your kitchen. The aroma of these cookies wafting through your home is like a warm embrace, inviting everyone to gather around. Each bite is a delightful reminder of family traditions and cozy moments. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of tea, these cookies bring joy to any occasion. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the mess, and let the magic of baking fill your heart and home with happiness!