These Pecan Pie Cookies are easy to make, absolutely delicious, and perfect for any festive occasion! With their buttery cookie base and gooey pecan filling, they’re sure to impress family and friends. The combination of flavors makes them ideal for holidays, parties, or just a sweet treat at home. Plus, they are simple enough for bakers of all skill levels!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare: These cookies come together in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for last-minute baking.
- Irresistibly tasty: The blend of buttery cookie and rich pecan filling creates a delightful flavor profile that will have everyone coming back for more.
- Festive appeal: Their charming appearance makes these cookies an excellent addition to any holiday dessert table.
- Versatile serving options: Enjoy them as a dessert or alongside your favorite warm beverage; they’re perfect for any occasion!
- Easy storage: These cookies can be stored in an airtight container, allowing you to enjoy them for days.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking these Pecan Pie Cookies, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spoon or cookie scoop
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients effectively; choose sizes that fit your needs.
- Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy base for even baking; a non-stick surface can help prevent sticking.
- Parchment paper: Prevents cookies from sticking to the baking sheet and allows for easy cleanup.
Ingredients
These Pecan Pie Cookies require the following ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How to Make Pecan Pie Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
Add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined; the dough should be slightly crumbly but hold together when pressed.
Step 4: Shape the Dough
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart. Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to create an indentation in each ball.
Step 5: Prepare the Pecan Filling
In a separate bowl, combine the chopped pecans, brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until the filling is sticky and combined.
Step 6: Fill Cookies
Spoon a small amount of the pecan filling into each indentation in the cookie dough balls.
Step 7: Bake Cookies
Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Pecan Pie Cookies
Pecan Pie Cookies make for a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether it’s a festive gathering, a cozy family night, or an afternoon snack, these cookies shine in every setting. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.
With a Cup of Coffee
- Enjoying these cookies with a hot cup of coffee enhances their flavor and creates a perfect balance between sweet and bitter.
Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Place a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two Pecan Pie Cookies for an indulgent dessert that combines textures and flavors beautifully.
Drizzled with Chocolate
- A drizzle of melted chocolate over the cookies adds richness and makes them feel extra special for any occasion.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Serve the cookies warm with a dollop of whipped cream on top for a deliciously creamy contrast to the crunchy pecan filling.
On a Dessert Platter
- Arrange the cookies on a festive platter alongside other holiday treats to impress guests at gatherings or parties.
How to Perfect Pecan Pie Cookies
To achieve the best results when making Pecan Pie Cookies, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure that your cookies turn out perfectly every time.
- Use room temperature ingredients – Make sure your butter and egg yolk are at room temperature for easy mixing and better texture.
- Don’t overmix the dough – Mix until just combined to maintain a tender crumb in your cookies.
- Chill the dough if needed – If your dough is too soft, chilling it for 15-30 minutes can help it hold its shape while baking.
- Watch the baking time – Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; you want them lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center.
- Experiment with add-ins – Feel free to mix in chocolate chips or dried fruit for additional flavor variations.
- Store properly – Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness for several days.
Best Side Dishes for Pecan Pie Cookies
Pecan Pie Cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their sweet and nutty flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider:
- Vanilla Ice Cream – The creamy texture contrasts nicely with the chewy cookie, making it an ideal pairing.
- Coffee or Tea – A warm beverage brings out the flavors of the cookies while providing a cozy touch.
- Cheese Plate – Add mild cheeses like brie or cream cheese, which offer a savory balance to the sweetness of the cookies.
- Fresh Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad can refresh the palate after indulging in rich desserts like Pecan Pie Cookies.
- Nutty Granola – Serve granola on the side as a crunchy companion that echoes the nutty taste of pecans.
- Chocolate Fondue – Pairing these cookies with chocolate fondue creates an interactive dessert experience where guests can dip away!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Pecan Pie Cookies, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the overall taste and texture of your cookies. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.
- Using cold butter: Cold butter does not cream well with sugar, which can result in dense cookies. Always use softened butter for a light and fluffy texture.
- Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can develop gluten, leading to tough cookies. Mix until just combined for the best results.
- Ignoring the indentation: Skipping the thumbprint step means there will be no space for the filling. Remember to create a good indentation for the pecan mixture.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using a kitchen scale or measuring cups properly is crucial. Inaccurate measurements can lead to overly sweet or dry cookies.
- Baking at the wrong temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated correctly. Baking at an incorrect temperature can burn or undercook your cookies.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Keep layers separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Freezing Pecan Pie Cookies
- Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- Place a piece of wax paper between layers to avoid clumping.
Reheating Pecan Pie Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individually for 10-15 seconds for a soft texture.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Pecan Pie Cookies.
Can I use different nuts in Pecan Pie Cookies?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer. The flavor will change slightly but will still be delicious!
How do I make my Pecan Pie Cookies more chewy?
To enhance chewiness, try adding an extra egg yolk or reducing the baking time slightly. This keeps them softer inside.
What can I pair with Pecan Pie Cookies?
These cookies pair well with coffee or tea! You can also serve them with ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
How should I store leftover Pecan Pie Cookies?
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them to maintain freshness.
Final Thoughts
Pecan Pie Cookies are not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious and versatile. You can customize them by adding chocolate chips, using different nuts, or adjusting sweetness levels. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are sure to impress and satisfy any sweet craving!
Pecan Pie Cookies
These Pecan Pie Cookies are the perfect fusion of a classic pecan pie and an easy cookie. With a buttery cookie base and a rich, gooey pecan filling, these treats are sure to impress at any gathering or holiday celebration. Not only are they incredibly delicious, but they’re also simple to prepare, making them ideal for bakers of all skill levels. Whether you’re serving them at festive events or enjoying them with your morning coffee, these cookies provide the perfect balance of crunch and sweetness. Plus, they store well, allowing you to enjoy them for days!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- Stir in the flour and salt until just combined; the dough should be crumbly but hold together when pressed.
- Roll tablespoon-sized portions into balls and place on the baking sheet, creating indentations with your thumb.
- In a separate bowl, mix chopped pecans, brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until sticky.
- Fill each indentation with the pecan mixture.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (22g)
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 35mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
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