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The Easy Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe is a delightful treat that will quickly become your go-to for satisfying that sweet tooth. With a perfectly tender, buttery base and the irresistible crunch of toasted pecans, these cookies deliver a comforting combination of textures and flavors that feel both timeless and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re baking for a casual afternoon snack or a special occasion, this recipe’s simplicity and deliciousness make it an absolute joy to prepare and share.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for a handful of simple ingredients, each playing a crucial role in crafting the rich flavor and tender crumb of your cookies. Every component brings something special—from the creamy butter adding richness to the brown sugar lending just the right touch of molasses sweetness, and of course, the pecans contributing that signature crunch and nutty depth.
- 1 cup salted butter (softened): Ensures your cookies have a rich, creamy base and adds a subtle saltiness that enhances all the flavors.
- 2/3 cup brown sugar (packed): Adds moisture and a deep caramel-like sweetness to keep the cookies tender.
- 1 egg yolk: Binds the dough together and contributes to a soft, delicate texture.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled): The structure of your cookie dough, giving it just the right amount of heft and crispness.
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Balances sweetness and highlights the flavors of butter and pecans.
- 50-60 pecan halves: The star nutty crunch that makes these cookies truly special and distinctive.
How to Make Easy Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Creaming the Butter and Sugar
Begin by beating your softened butter and packed brown sugar together in a large bowl or stand mixer. This step is essential for introducing air into the dough, which creates that perfect tender crumb. Beat for 2-3 minutes, making sure to scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl to evenly combine everything.
Step 2: Adding the Egg Yolk
Once your butter and sugar mixture is smooth and fluffy, add the egg yolk. This adds richness and helps bind the dough, so mix it thoroughly until fully incorporated.
Step 3: Mixing in the Dry Ingredients
Next, add the all-purpose flour and salt. Stir gently until the dough clumps together and forms a ball. Be careful not to overmix here—that can make the cookies tough. Scrape down the sides and bottom to ensure all the flour is mixed in evenly.
Step 4: Chilling the Dough
Cover the bowl and chill the dough for about an hour. This solidifies the butter again, preventing the cookies from spreading too much while baking. If you’re doubling the recipe, plan to chill it for 2-3 hours to keep the dough firm.
Step 5: Preparing to Bake
While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line two large baking sheets with silicone mats or parchment paper. Proper lining prevents sticking and ensures even baking.
Step 6: Forming the Cookies
Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls and space them about one inch apart on the cookie sheets to allow for a little spread while baking.
Step 7: Flattening with a Fork
Flatten each cookie ball gently with a fork. If the fork sticks, dip it lightly in flour before pressing. This creates the classic fork-marked texture that’s charming and helps cookies bake evenly.
Step 8: Adding the Pecans
Press a pecan half into the top of each flattened cookie, placing it perpendicular to the fork marks. This adds a beautiful presentation and that perfect nutty crunch with every bite.
Step 9: Baking to Perfection
Bake the cookies for 6-8 minutes, watching carefully so they don’t brown too much. You want them to be set and no longer shiny on top, with only a hint of golden color on the edges for that ideal tender texture.
How to Serve Easy Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your cookies by sprinkling a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt right after baking, which will elevate the buttery sweetness and create a wonderful contrast. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also add a lovely touch for festive occasions.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair beautifully with a cup of strong coffee or a creamy latte, making for a cozy afternoon treat. They’re also delightful alongside a glass of cold milk or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a simple dessert plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the cookies with layers of whipped cream and thin slices of fresh fruit for a quick and charming dessert parfait. Or arrange them on a festive platter alongside nuts and dried fruits for a party-ready snack display that your guests will rave about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover Easy Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe treats fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay wonderfully soft and flavorful for up to a week, perfect to nibble on whenever a craving hits.
Freezing
If you want to save some dough or baked cookies for later, freeze them in a sealed bag or container. Cookie dough balls can be frozen before baking for up to three months, just thaw in the fridge before baking. Baked cookies freeze well too and can be thawed at room temperature without losing their delicious texture.
Reheating
Warm cookies gently in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or pop them in a preheated oven for a few minutes to revive that fresh-baked softness and buttery aroma as if they just came out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted?
Yes, unsalted butter works perfectly. Just add an extra pinch of salt to the dough to make up for the difference and keep that balanced flavor.
Why do I need to chill the dough?
Chilling firms up the dough, which prevents the cookies from spreading too much while they bake, helping them keep their shape and develop a tender texture.
Can I substitute the pecans with other nuts?
Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds make excellent alternatives if pecans aren’t available or if you want to experiment with different flavors. Just use the same amount as the recipe calls for.
How long will these cookies stay fresh?
Stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, they stay fresh and tasty for about a week, perfect for keeping on hand for daily enjoyment.
Can I make smaller or larger cookies with this recipe?
You can! Just adjust the baking time accordingly—smaller cookies might need a minute or two less, while larger cookies will require a bit more time. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
Final Thoughts
Nothing beats the simple joy of baking the Easy Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe, especially when you get to share these buttery, nutty delights with loved ones. They’re easy, quick, and downright delicious—giving you a moment of warmth and comfort with every bite. I can’t wait for you to try them and add your own special touches!
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