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Butter Pecan Cookies: The Ultimate Homemade Cookie Recipe
Table of Contents
The Story Behind Butter Pecan Cookies
The combination of butter and pecans is a match made in dessert heaven. Butter pecan cookies likely evolved from traditional butter cookies, with the addition of pecans for extra flavor and texture. Today, they are enjoyed across the country and are especially popular during the fall and winter months, when pecans are in season.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich, Buttery Flavor: The combination of unsalted butter and brown sugar creates a deep, caramel-like taste that pairs perfectly with pecans.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and common pantry ingredients, these cookies are perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers.
- Perfect Texture: These cookies are soft and chewy in the center, with crisp edges and plenty of nutty crunch.
- Family Favorite: Butter pecan cookies are always a hit at gatherings, making them ideal for sharing with friends and loved ones.
Variations
- Chocolate Chip Butter Pecan Cookies: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
- Maple Butter Pecan Cookies: Substitute 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract with maple extract for a warm, autumn-inspired flavor.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
- Extra Nutty: Double the pecans for even more crunch and flavor.
Storage
- Room Temperature: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze baked cookies or unbaked dough balls for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Leftovers
- Crumble leftover cookies over ice cream for a delicious sundae topping.
- Use as a base for cookie crusts in cheesecakes or pies.
- Pack in lunchboxes for a sweet treat throughout the week.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to avoid over-salting.
Do I need to toast the pecans first?
Toasting pecans enhances their flavor, but you can use raw pecans if you prefer a milder taste.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! Chill the dough for up to 48 hours before baking for even more flavor.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
The edges should be golden brown, and the centers should look set but still soft.
Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Servings: 24 cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup of pecans, chopped
- 100 g of unsalted butter
- 70 g of granulated sugar
- 1 cup of brown sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups White Lily all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- a pinch of salt
Directions
Prepare the Dough:
- Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) and line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar with an electric mixer until light and creamy.
- Add eggs and vanilla extract, then beat again for an additional 2 minutes.
- Add flour, baking soda, and salt, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chopped pecans.
Bake the Cookies:
- Using a medium cookie scoop, scoop balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake until golden brown, about 10 to 15 minutes.
- Cool cookies on a wire rack and enjoy!
Nutritional Information
| Calories | Approx. 140 |
|---|---|
| Carbohydrates | 17g |
| Total Fat | 7g |
| Cholesterol | 18mg |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 45mg |
| Sugar | 10g |
| Protein | 2g |
Recipe Notes
- For extra flavor, toast the pecans in a dry skillet for 3-5 minutes before adding to the dough.
- Don’t overmix the dough after adding the flour to keep the cookies tender.
- Let cookies cool completely before storing to maintain their texture.
Final Thoughts
Butter pecan cookies are a timeless treat that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion. With their rich, nutty flavor and chewy texture, they’re sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Try this easy recipe today and enjoy the delicious taste of homemade butter pecan cookies with family and friends!
