Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate buttery, nutty treat, Butter Pecan Cookies answer every craving. Each bite boasts a rich, toasty pecan crunch hugged by chewy, golden goodness. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a cookie newbie, these beauties offer a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a flavor that always wows a crowd (or just your afternoon snack break!). This is the kind of classic cookie you’ll come back to again and again, especially for holiday baking, potlucks, or cozy nights in.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making Butter Pecan Cookies is so delightfully simple, yet each ingredient brings something special to the table. With familiar pantry staples and a handful of toasty pecans, you’re on your way to irresistible cookies with rich flavors and the perfect bite.

• Unsalted Butter (1 cup, softened): Provides the buttery backbone and chewy, tender texture we all love.
• Packed Brown Sugar (1 cup): Adds deep caramel notes and a soft chew.
• Granulated Sugar (½ cup): Balances sweetness and ensures crispy cookie edges.
• Large Eggs (2): Bind the dough together and create a rich, moist crumb.
• Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons): Brings in warmth and classic bakery aroma.
• All-Purpose Flour (2 ¼ cups): Creates structure and softness in each cookie.
• Baking Soda (1 teaspoon): Gives the cookies just the right lift and tenderness.
• Salt (½ teaspoon): Makes all the flavors pop and balances the sweetness.
• Chopped Toasted Pecans (2 cups): The star ingredient—adds nutty flavor and irresistible crunch.
• Pecan Halves for Topping (optional): Perfect for a picture-worthy, elegant finish on top of each cookie.

How to Make Butter Pecan Cookies

Step 1: Toast the Pecans

Before you start mixing your dough, take a few minutes to toast your pecans. Either spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 6–8 minutes, or toss them in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring until fragrant. Toasting brings out the natural oils in the pecans, giving these Butter Pecan Cookies their signature depth of flavor.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Beat until the mixture is light, creamy, and slightly fluffy. This step is essential for that soft, chewy texture—give it a solid 2–3 minutes with a hand mixer or stand mixer!

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. This is where everything starts to smell amazing, and the dough gets rich and silky smooth.

Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed butter mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—the secret to tender Butter Pecan Cookies is a gentle hand.

Step 5: Fold in Toasted Pecans

Gently fold in your toasted pecans, distributing them evenly throughout the dough. Every cookie will be loaded with crunchy, buttery bites that make these so irresistible.

Step 6: Scoop and Shape

Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and arrange them on your parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing about 2 inches apart. If you want a bakery-style touch, press a pecan half gently on the center of each cookie before baking.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are a rich golden brown and the centers look just set. Don’t overbake! Leave the cookies on the sheet for a few minutes after removing from the oven so they finish setting up, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Butter Pecan Cookies

Garnishes

For an extra-luxurious look, top each cookie with a pecan half right before baking. A little sprinkle of flaky sea salt after baking brings out all those buttery, nutty notes and takes these Butter Pecan Cookies to the next level.

Side Dishes

Pair your cookies with a cold glass of milk, rich French press coffee, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert duo. They’re also delightful alongside a simple fruit salad if you’re adding them to a brunch spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange Butter Pecan Cookies in a pretty tin or cellophane bag tied with ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift. Try stacking them in rustic jars layered with parchment paper, or even building an elegant cookie tower for your dessert table centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Butter Pecan Cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and flavorful for up to a week, making them perfect for make-ahead treats or lunchbox surprises.

Freezing

Butter Pecan Cookies freeze beautifully! You can freeze baked cookies by arranging them in layers between sheets of parchment in a sealed container for up to three months. Or freeze dough balls instead, then bake fresh cookies straight from the freezer—just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

If your cookies lose a bit of their just-baked magic, warm them in the oven at 300°F for 3–4 minutes. This revives their tender texture and brings the aroma of toasted pecans back to life.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, you can! Just reduce the added salt by half, as salted butter already contains a generous amount of salt. The cookies might taste a little more savory, but they’ll still be delicious.

How do I toast pecans without burning them?

Always use a medium-low heat and keep a close eye on them. Stir or shake the pan frequently, and remove the pecans as soon as they smell fragrant and start to deepen in color. They can go from perfect to burnt in seconds, so don’t walk away!

Can I make smaller or larger cookies?

Absolutely! For dainty, two-bite Butter Pecan Cookies, use a teaspoon to scoop the dough. For giant bakery-style cookies, try a quarter-cup scoop and add a minute or two to the baking time—just watch closely so they don’t overbake.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

The classic recipe calls for all-purpose flour, but you can substitute your favorite 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. The texture will be a touch different, but the cookies will still be packed with buttery, nutty flavor.

Why did my cookies turn out flat or too thick?

Flat cookies often mean the butter was too soft or melted; try chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking. If they’re too thick, you may have added a bit too much flour—make sure to spoon and level instead of scooping directly from the bag.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to experience the warm, toasty bliss of Butter Pecan Cookies fresh from your own oven. With their rich pecan crunch and buttery chew, they’re impossible to resist. Gather your favorite people, bake a batch, and let the sweet, nutty aroma fill your kitchen—these cookies really do bring a little happiness with every bite!

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