Butter Pecan Cookies

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Butter pecan cookies are a classic treat that combines rich, buttery dough with crunchy toasted pecans, creating a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s hard to resist. These cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, special occasions, or just when you crave a comforting, homemade dessert. Here’s everything you need to know to make your own batch of delicious butter pecan cookies.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans, toasted

Instructions

1. Toast the Pecans

Toasting the pecans brings out their natural oils and enhances their flavor. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast them for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are lightly browned and aromatic. Set aside to cool.

2. Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together. Beat on medium speed for 2-3 minutes, until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step helps create a tender, chewy texture.

3. Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then mix in the vanilla extract, which adds depth of flavor to the dough.

4. Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.

5. Fold in the Pecans

Gently fold in the toasted pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. The pecans add a satisfying crunch to every bite.

6. Chill the Dough (Optional but Recommended)

For thicker, chewier cookies, cover the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking.

7. Preheat the Oven and Shape the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) if it isn’t already heated. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough and roll them into balls. Place the dough balls on the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

8. Bake the Cookies

Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set. The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool, so avoid overbaking if you prefer a softer texture.

9. Cool and Enjoy

Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy warm or at room temperature, and savor the rich, buttery flavor with every bite.

Tips for the Best Butter Pecan Cookies

  • Use Quality Butter: The buttery flavor is key in these cookies, so using high-quality butter will make a noticeable difference in taste.
  • Don’t Skip Toasting the Pecans: Toasting the pecans elevates their flavor and adds a delicious crunch.
  • Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough not only helps control spreading but also allows the flavors to meld, creating a richer, more flavorful cookie.
  • Add a Sprinkle of Sea Salt: For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of each cookie before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Butter pecan cookies pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. Serve them as part of a dessert platter, or enjoy them on their own as an indulgent treat. These cookies also make wonderful gifts—simply package them in a decorative tin or wrap them in cellophane with a festive ribbon.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the baked cookies or even freeze the unbaked dough for up to three months. Just thaw the dough in the fridge before baking.

Butter pecan cookies are a timeless favorite that’s sure to bring a smile to anyone who tries them. The buttery richness, nutty crunch, and hint of sweetness make these cookies a must-have in your recipe collection. Bake a batch, share with loved ones, or enjoy them all to yourself—either way, these cookies are guaranteed to be a hit!

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