How To Make Butter Pecan Cookies
Butter pecan cookies are a delightful combination of rich, buttery dough and crunchy, toasted pecans that create a perfect balance of flavors in every bite. If you're a fan of both butter and pecans, this cookie recipe will quickly become a go-to treat for any occasion. Whether you're baking for a special event or simply craving a comforting snack, butter pecan cookies are sure to impress. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of making these delicious cookies, share some tips for the perfect bake, and explain how to enhance your cookies with the best ingredients.
What Are Butter Pecan Cookies?
Butter pecan cookies are a type of cookie that incorporates the rich, nutty flavor of toasted pecans into a soft, buttery dough. The combination of brown sugar, butter, and finely chopped pecans results in a chewy and flavorful treat that has a satisfying crunch from the pecans. These cookies are not overly sweet, making them perfect for those who enjoy a more balanced dessert.
The name "butter pecan" might make you think of the classic butter pecan ice cream flavor, and for good reason! Just like the ice cream, these cookies bring together the sweet, nutty, and buttery flavors that make them irresistible. The brown butter used in this recipe adds an extra layer of depth, giving the cookies a toasty richness that will have everyone coming back for more.
The Ingredients for the Best Butter Pecan Cookies
The key to perfect pecan cookies is choosing the right ingredients. Below is a list of what you’ll need to make these delicious cookies:
For the Dough:
Butter: The main fat in the recipe, butter helps create the rich, soft texture of the cookie. Make sure to use unsalted butter for better control over the cookie’s saltiness.
Cream Cheese: Some variations of butter pecan cookies include cream cheese in the dough to enhance the softness and add a slight tang. If you prefer a lighter texture, adding cream cheese can make your cookies even fluffier.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar gives the cookies a deeper, molasses-like flavor and a chewy texture. You can use light or dark brown sugar depending on your preference.
Egg: The egg binds the ingredients together and helps the dough rise.
Vanilla Extract: The vanilla adds warmth and depth to the cookies, enhancing the overall flavor.
Flour: All-purpose flour is the base of the cookie dough, and it helps create structure while keeping the cookies soft.
Baking Soda: A leavening agent that ensures the cookies bake to the perfect height and texture.
Salt: A small amount of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor of the butter.
For the Pecan Filling:
Pecans: The star of the recipe, chopped pecans, are folded into the dough. Toasting the pecans before adding them to the dough enhances their natural flavor and gives the cookies an extra crunch. For the best results, choose high-quality southern pecan products.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Butter Pecan Cookies
Making butter pecan cookies is a fun and straightforward process. Follow these steps for a batch of irresistible, chewy cookies that will impress your family and friends.
Step 1: Toast the Pecans
Before making the dough, it’s important to toast the pecans. This step not only enhances the flavor but also brings out the natural oils in the nuts, adding an extra level of richness to the cookies. Simply preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), spread the pecans in a single layer on a baking sheet, and bake for about 8-10 minutes, stirring once halfway through. Once they’re fragrant and golden brown, remove them from the oven and let them cool.
Step 2: Brown the Butter
For the best flavor, you’ll want to brown the butter. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, stirring constantly. Keep an eye on it as the butter starts to bubble and foam. After a few minutes, you’ll notice the butter turning golden and developing a nutty aroma. Once the butter is browned, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly before using it in your dough.
Step 3: Make the Cookie Dough
Now that your pecans are toasted and your butter is browned, it's time to make the dough! In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled brown butter and cream cheese. Beat them together until smooth. Then, add the brown sugar, egg, and vanilla extract, and mix until the dough is creamy and well combined.
Gradually add the flour, baking soda, and salt, mixing just until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as that can lead to tough cookies. Finally, fold in the toasted pecans. The dough should be thick but pliable, ready for chilling.
Step 4: Chill the Dough
For the best texture, chill the dough for at least 2 hours before baking. This step helps the cookies keep their shape while baking and enhances the flavor. If you’re short on time, you can chill the dough for 30 minutes in the freezer. However, allowing it to chill for a longer period results in thicker, chewier cookies.
Step 5: Shape and Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Once the dough has chilled, scoop it into tablespoon-sized portions and roll each piece into a ball. Place the dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. Flatten the dough balls slightly with the palm of your hand or a fork, ensuring they’re not too thick.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are golden and the centers are set. Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake, as oven temperatures can vary. Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Perfect Butter Pecan Cookies
Chill the dough: This helps maintain the shape and results in a thicker, chewier cookie.
Don’t overbake: Take the cookies out of the oven when the edges are golden and the center is slightly soft to maintain a chewy texture.
Use high-quality pecans: The flavor of your cookies will be directly affected by the quality of the pecans. For the best results, use fresh, toasted southern pecan products.
Brown your butter: This adds a nutty, caramelized flavor that makes the cookies even more decadent.
Why You’ll Love These Butter Pecan Cookies
These pecan cookies are the perfect balance of sweet, nutty, and buttery flavors. The brown butter gives the dough a rich, toasty flavor, while the toasted pecans add a satisfying crunch in every bite. Whether you’re a fan of traditional pecan pies or just love a good cookie, these butter pecan cookies will quickly become a favorite.
The chewy texture and golden-brown edges make these cookies irresistible, and the fact that they’re loaded with toasted pecans ensures that every bite is packed with flavor. If you’re looking for a unique treat that combines the best of both worlds, cookies and pecans, then this recipe is for you.
A Perfect Cookie for Any Occasion
Making butter pecan cookies is easy, and the result is a decadent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. From family gatherings to holiday parties, these cookies are sure to impress. With this pecan cookies recipe, you’ll create a batch of chewy, nutty cookies with the rich, toasty flavor that everyone loves. Ready to make the best butter pecan cookies? Start with premium southern pecan products from Double Q Pecan Company for the freshest, highest-quality ingredients.