Indulge in the delightful experience of Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies. These cookies blend toasted pecans and creamy butter into a rich treat that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them as a cozy snack, serving them at a gathering, or gifting them during the holidays, their unique flavors and textures are sure to impress. The melt-in-your-mouth glaze adds an irresistible touch that makes these cookies stand out.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of buttery goodness and toasted pecans creates a rich taste that everyone will love.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, these cookies can be made quickly, even on a busy day.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, they fit any occasion seamlessly.
- Perfectly Textured: Enjoy the balance of soft centers with slightly crunchy edges, making each bite satisfying.
- Great for Sharing: With about 24 servings, these cookies are ideal for parties or as thoughtful gifts.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies, gather the essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Whisk
- Saucepan
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl is crucial for combining your wet and dry ingredients effectively.
- Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even baking and prevents warping in high heat.
- Parchment paper: Using parchment paper helps cookies bake evenly while preventing sticking.
- Cooling rack: A cooling rack allows air circulation around the cookies so they cool properly without getting soggy.
Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans, toasted
For the Glaze
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp milk or cream
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
How to Make Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, toast your pecans on a baking sheet for about 5–7 minutes until fragrant. Once done, allow them to cool.
Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Crack in one large egg along with the vanilla extract. Mix everything together until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until mixed thoroughly.
Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add your dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined; avoid overmixing.
Step 6: Fold in Pecans
Gently fold in your cooled toasted pecans until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 7: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheet
Scoop tablespoons of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them apart to allow room for spreading.
Step 8: Bake Your Cookies
Bake in your preheated oven for about 10–12 minutes or until edges are golden brown while keeping centers soft.
Step 9: Cool on Wire Rack
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 10: Prepare the Glaze
For the glaze, melt together unsalted butter and brown sugar in a saucepan over low heat. Stir in milk until combined. Remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar until smooth.
Step 11: Drizzle Glaze Over Cookies
Once your cookies are completely cooled, drizzle the glaze over them. Let it set before serving or storing.
Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies!
How to Serve Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies
Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are a versatile treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging on your own, here are some delightful serving suggestions.
With Coffee or Tea
- Pairing these cookies with a hot cup of coffee or tea enhances their buttery flavors and creates a comforting snack time experience.
As Part of a Dessert Platter
- Arrange these cookies alongside other desserts such as brownies and mini cheesecakes for an impressive dessert table at any celebration.
With Ice Cream
- Serve your frosted cookies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert that combines textures and temperatures beautifully.
At Holiday Gatherings
- These cookies make perfect holiday treats. Present them on festive platters during gatherings to spread cheer and sweetness.
Gift-Wrapped for Friends
- Package these cookies in decorative boxes or bags as thoughtful gifts for friends and family, especially during the holiday season.
Just Because!
- Enjoy them anytime you need a sweet pick-me-up. Their comforting flavors make any moment feel special.
How to Perfect Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies
To achieve the ultimate in Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies, consider these helpful tips.
- Use fresh ingredients – Ensure your butter, eggs, and pecans are fresh for the best flavor and texture.
- Toast the pecans carefully – Toasting enhances the nuttiness; watch them closely so they don’t burn.
- Don’t overmix – Mix just until combined to maintain the cookie’s soft texture; overmixing can lead to toughness.
- Chill the dough if needed – If the dough is too soft, chilling it for 30 minutes helps shape perfect cookies before baking.
- Check baking times – Ovens vary; keep an eye on your cookies during the last few minutes to prevent over-baking.
- Let glaze cool slightly – Allow the glaze to cool before drizzling it over the cookies for better adherence and shine.
Best Side Dishes for Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies
Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some great options to consider.
- Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness against the rich cookies.
- Cheese Platter – Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese that contrast nicely with the sweetness of the cookies.
- Chocolate Fondue – Dip pieces of cookie into warm chocolate for an indulgent twist that chocolate lovers will adore.
- Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and fruits alongside these cookies for a fun and tasty breakfast option.
- Nutty Granola Bars – Serve these bars as a crunchy counterpart, emphasizing nutty flavors similar to those in your cookies.
- Milkshake – A creamy milkshake complements the soft texture of Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies beautifully, perfect for dessert!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking can be tricky, and even small errors can impact your Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Skipping the toasting step: Not toasting the pecans can result in a bland flavor. Always toast them for enhanced taste.
- Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Stop mixing as soon as the ingredients are combined.
- Using cold butter: Cold butter doesn’t cream well, affecting texture. Ensure your butter is softened at room temperature.
- Not measuring flour correctly: Incorrect flour measurements can ruin the cookie consistency. Use the spoon-and-level method for accuracy.
- Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to undercooked or overcooked cookies. Always preheat your oven properly.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies
- Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag.
- They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Heat cookies for about 5-7 minutes for a fresh taste.
- Microwave: Warm cookies individually for about 10-15 seconds for softness without drying out.
- Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet on low heat for approximately 2-3 minutes, covered, for gentle reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies special?
Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies combine rich flavors of buttery dough with crunchy pecans and a sweet glaze, creating a delightful treat loved by many.
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes! You can substitute walnuts or almonds if you prefer. However, keep in mind that it will slightly alter the flavor profile.
How do I achieve the perfect glaze for Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies?
Make sure to fully melt the butter and sugar before adding milk and powdered sugar. This ensures a smooth, pourable glaze.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup.
Final Thoughts
Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect for any occasion, they bring joy and warmth with every bite. Feel free to customize them with different nuts or toppings to suit your taste!
Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies
Indulge in the delightful taste of Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies, where creamy butter meets toasted pecans for a rich, satisfying treat. These cookies, with their melt-in-your-mouth glaze, are perfect for any occasion—from cozy afternoons to festive gatherings. Easy to whip up and even easier to share, each bite offers a unique blend of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more. Whether enjoyed alongside a hot beverage or presented as thoughtful gifts, Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are sure to impress everyone who tries them.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans, toasted
- For the glaze: 1/4 cup unsalted butter, 1/3 cup brown sugar, 2 tbsp milk or cream, and 3/4 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and toast pecans for about 5–7 minutes until fragrant.
- In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy.
- Add in the egg and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture; stir until just combined.
- Fold in cooled toasted pecans evenly into the dough.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for about 10–12 minutes until edges are golden but centers remain soft.
- Cool on a wire rack before glazing.
- For the glaze, melt butter and brown sugar over low heat; stir in milk and powdered sugar until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cookies.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Leave a Comment