Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe

If you love the irresistible combination of pecan pie and cookies, then this Pecan Pie Cookies recipe is for you. With the warmth of brown sugar, the richness of butter, and the crunch of pecans, these cookies bring the beloved flavors of pecan pie into a fun, portable cookie form. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday celebration or simply craving a treat, these pecan pie cookies offer a unique twist on a classic dessert. In this article, we’ll walk you through the recipe, tips for success, and much more to ensure your cookies turn out perfect every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pecan pie lovers rejoice! These Pecan Pie Cookies combine the classic flavors of a rich, gooey pecan pie with the convenience and texture of a cookie. Each bite delivers a buttery, sweet, and nutty flavor profile that makes these cookies an instant favorite. The addition of cinnamon and vanilla creates a warm, comforting taste, while the crunchy pecans add a delightful texture. Perfect for gifting or sharing at family gatherings, these cookies are sure to impress with their festive appearance and decadent taste.

These cookies offer a fun twist on the traditional pecan pie, making them easy to bake, transport, and serve. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of coffee or serving them as a dessert at a holiday meal, they are sure to be a hit. Unlike traditional pecan pie, which can be messy and time-consuming to make, these cookies are a quicker and less complicated alternative that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.

Recipe Details

Pecan Pie Cookies are inspired by the classic pecan pie, a dessert that traces its roots to the southern United States. Pecan pie has long been a favorite during holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, celebrated for its sweet filling and buttery crust. By turning this iconic pie into a cookie form, you get all the same delicious flavors without the hassle of baking a full pie.

The recipe itself is quite simple but full of flavor. The base of the cookie is made from butter, brown sugar, and eggs, similar to a pecan pie filling. Then, chopped pecans are mixed in to give the cookies their signature crunch. The dough is chilled before being rolled into balls and baked, creating a chewy center with slightly crisp edges. The final touch is a drizzle of caramel glaze, which mimics the gooey syrupy filling of a pecan pie.

One of the best aspects of these cookies is their versatility. You can easily adjust the level of sweetness or add additional ingredients like chocolate chips or a sprinkle of sea salt for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.

Nutritional Information

Pecan Pie Cookies are a delicious treat, but like any dessert, they come with some nutritional considerations. These cookies are rich in calories, mostly from the sugars and fats in the butter and pecans. Each cookie provides a satisfying amount of energy, making it a perfect snack for those with a sweet tooth who need a little pick-me-up.

Here’s a breakdown of what’s in these cookies:

• Calories: A single cookie contains around 150-180 calories, depending on size.
• Fat: Each cookie has around 9-11 grams of fat, with much of this coming from the butter and pecans.
• Carbohydrates: These cookies contain around 18-20 grams of carbohydrates, making them a fairly high-carb dessert.
• Sugar: Expect 12-14 grams of sugar per cookie, contributing to its sweetness and the signature gooey texture.
• Protein: Each cookie has around 2-3 grams of protein from the eggs and pecans, making it a filling treat.

While these cookies are not a low-calorie dessert, they do provide healthy fats from the pecans, which are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids and other important nutrients like magnesium and fiber.

To make the cookies a little lighter, you can swap in lower-fat ingredients, like reduced-fat butter or use a sugar substitute. However, doing so may alter the flavor and texture slightly.

Ingredients

For these delicious Pecan Pie Cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter: The butter adds richness and helps create the soft texture in the cookies.
• 1 ½ cups brown sugar: Brown sugar adds depth and a caramel-like flavor that mimics the filling of a pecan pie.
• 2 large eggs: Eggs help bind the dough and give the cookies their structure.
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The flour forms the base of the cookie dough and helps provide structure.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Baking soda helps the cookies rise and become slightly chewy.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Salt balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Cinnamon brings warmth and depth to the cookies, complementing the flavor of the pecans.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Vanilla adds a fragrant and sweet note to the cookies.
• 1 ½ cups chopped pecans: Chopped pecans add the signature crunch and nutty flavor that make these cookies taste like pecan pie.
• Caramel drizzle (optional): For extra sweetness and a rich finish, a caramel drizzle on top of each cookie mimics the gooey filling of a pecan pie.

This combination of ingredients creates a cookie that is rich, sweet, and perfectly balanced. The pecans provide the perfect crunch, and the caramel drizzle on top adds a final touch of decadence.

Equipment Needed

To make these Pecan Pie Cookies, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools:

• Mixing bowls: To combine your ingredients and mix the dough thoroughly.
• Hand mixer or stand mixer: To blend the butter and sugar together smoothly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurately measuring your ingredients, ensuring the best flavor and texture.
• Baking sheet: A non-stick or parchment-lined baking sheet will help prevent the cookies from sticking.
• Cooling rack: After baking, transfer the cookies to a cooling rack to ensure they don’t become soggy.
• Small saucepan (optional): For making the caramel drizzle if you decide to add it.

If you don’t have a stand mixer, a hand mixer works perfectly. If you prefer a more rustic look, you can also mix everything by hand, just be sure to cream the butter and sugar together well.

Pro Tips For Success

To make sure your Pecan Pie Cookies turn out perfectly every time, here are some tips for success:

• Use room temperature butter: This will make it easier to cream the butter and sugar together, ensuring a smooth and well-mixed dough.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Once you add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Chill the dough: Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This will help the cookies hold their shape and prevent spreading.
• Use fresh pecans: Freshly chopped pecans will add the best flavor and crunch to your cookies. Make sure they are chopped evenly for a consistent texture.
• Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on the cookies while they bake. They should be golden brown around the edges and slightly soft in the center. Overbaking will result in crunchy cookies, not the chewy, soft texture you want.
• Add the caramel drizzle last: If you’re using caramel drizzle, let the cookies cool completely before drizzling it over the top to avoid it melting into the cookies.

By following these tips, you’ll ensure that your cookies turn out perfectly chewy with the perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors.

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Mix the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and mix until well incorporated.
3. Add the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
4. Add the pecans: Stir in the chopped pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
5. Shape the dough: Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 tablespoon each, and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake the cookies: Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is slightly soft. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
7. Make the caramel drizzle (optional): In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt caramel sauce and drizzle it over the cooled cookies.
8. Serve and enjoy: Allow the caramel to set for a few minutes before serving the cookies. Enjoy!

Recipe Variations

These Pecan Pie Cookies are easily adaptable to different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:

• Chocolate Pecan Pie Cookies: Add a handful of chocolate chips to the dough for a rich, chocolatey twist.
• Maple Pecan Cookies: Substitute maple syrup for some of the brown sugar to add a deliciously warm maple flavor.
• Gluten-Free Pecan Pie Cookies: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free.
• Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies: Swap the butter for a vegan butter substitute and use a flaxseed or chia egg substitute to make these cookies vegan.

Storage Instructions

To store Pecan Pie Cookies, allow them to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. These cookies will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them for a longer period, place them in the freezer for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply leave them at room temperature for 1-2 hours before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Pecan Pie Cookies are perfect on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a variety of beverages. Serve them with a hot cup of coffee, a glass of milk, or even a cold iced tea. If you’re looking for a more indulgent treat, serve the cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra decadence.

FAQs

1. Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
   Yes, walnuts or almonds would work well as a substitute for pecans.
2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
   Absolutely! You can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before baking.
3. Can I freeze these cookies?
   Yes, freeze the baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
4. Can I add chocolate chips to the dough?
   Definitely! Chocolate chips would add a delicious twist to these cookies.
5. What should I do if the dough is too sticky?
   If the dough is too sticky, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to make it easier to roll.
6. Can I make these cookies without the caramel drizzle?
   Yes, the cookies are delicious on their own, but the caramel drizzle adds extra flavor.
7. How do I make the cookies more chewy?
   For chewier cookies, avoid overbaking them and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
8. How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
   Chill the dough before baking to prevent spreading.
9. How do I ensure the cookies are evenly sized?
   Use a cookie scoop to ensure uniform size for even baking.
10. Can I add other spices to the cookies?
    Absolutely! A pinch of nutmeg or ginger would complement the flavors beautifully.

Conclusion

Pecan Pie Cookies bring the best of both worlds—rich, nutty pecan pie flavors and the convenience of cookies. Whether you’re making them for a holiday gathering, a special occasion, or just as a treat for yourself, these cookies are sure to impress with their delicious flavor and satisfying texture. Enjoy every bite of this irresistible, gooey, and nutty dessert!

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