Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe

When you crave something sweet, when you want a texture that’s both chewy and nutty, and when you seek a cookie that stands out, butter pecan cookies fit the bill perfectly. This recipe not only highlights the rich flavors of browned butter and toasted pecans, but it also offers a simple method that requires minimal effort. However, there’s an essential step that many overlook, which can make all the difference in achieving that perfect cookie texture. Curious about what that might be?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a cookie that combines rich flavors and delightful textures, you’ll love this Butter Pecan Cookies recipe. The unique mix of toasted pecans, brown sugar, and butter creates a flavor complexity that’s hard to resist.

Browned butter enhances the nutty taste, while a hint of vanilla and sea salt adds depth. With a chewy edge and soft center, these cookies offer a perfect texture, especially when you include toasted pecans for crunch. Plus, this recipe is easy to prepare—no mixer required! You can whip it up in under an hour.

Chilling the dough for at least 3 hours helps prevent over-spreading and ensures perfectly shaped cookies. Customizing is simple too; try adding toffee bits or a white chocolate drizzle to make them even more special for holiday baking or cookie exchanges.

History

Butter pecan cookies not only offer a delightful treat but also carry a rich history rooted in American culture.

This flavor originated in the Southern United States, where it became part of soul food, the traditional cuisine of Black Americans. During the Jim Crow era, when racial segregation restricted access to vanilla ice cream, butter pecan emerged as a popular alternative. This emergence was particularly significant as it represented a form of cultural expression amidst the challenges faced by Black Americans.

The use of roasted pecans, butter, and vanilla became characteristic of this flavor, which gained significant popularity among Black communities.

Today, butter pecan is a beloved flavor, reflecting resilience and creativity in the face of oppression. Its historical journey continues to resonate, making butter pecan cookies a delicious link to a meaningful culinary heritage.

Recipe

Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe

Indulge in the delightful taste of Butter Pecan Cookies, a perfect treat for any occasion. With a rich buttery flavor and the irresistible crunch of toasted pecans, these cookies are sure to impress family and friends alike. The combination of brown and granulated sugars creates a beautiful balance of sweetness, while the addition of vanilla extract and toasted pecans elevates the flavor profile to new heights. These cookies are also versatile, as you can experiment with variations like chocolate chip pecan or pecan snowball.

Making these cookies is a simple yet rewarding process. The dough is easy to whip up, and with a little chilling time, you’ll be ready to bake delicious, golden-brown cookies that are soft in the center and slightly crisp around the edges. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or stored for later, these Butter Pecan Cookies are a delightful treat that will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup toasted pecans, chopped
– Optional: additional granulated sugar for rolling

Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes.

Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, and beat until smooth and well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Gently fold in the toasted pecans, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 30-45 minutes to make it easier to handle.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cookie tray with parchment paper.
Once chilled, scoop out small portions of the dough and roll them into balls. If desired, roll each dough ball in granulated sugar for extra flavor and texture.
Place the dough balls on the prepared cookie tray, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Alternatively, you can shape the dough into logs and slice it into rounds.
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 11-14 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and firm along the edges. The centers will be poofy but will deflate as they cool.
Allow the cookies to cool on the tray for 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to finish cooling completely. Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

For the best results, consider using brown butter for a deeper flavor profile, or caramelize your pecans with butter and brown sugar for an extra touch of sweetness. Using high-quality vanilla extract can also enhance the overall taste of the cookies.

Remember to store your cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh and delicious for days!

Final Thoughts

While you might be tempted to rush through making these Butter Pecan Cookies, taking your time will truly enhance the experience.

Start by toasting your pecans to bring out their rich flavor, and consider using brown butter for a deeper taste. Remember, underbaking slightly guarantees that your cookies remain chewy as they cool. For freshness, store your cookies in airtight containers. Additionally, these cookies are perfect for holiday baking, making them an excellent choice for family gatherings.

If you want to impress, add a drizzle of white chocolate or extra pecans for visual appeal. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different add-ins or flavors to create your favorite version. Finally, pay attention to dough consistency and avoid overmixing to guarantee perfectly baked cookies every time.

Enjoy the process, and happy baking!

FAQ

If you have questions about making Butter Pecan Cookies, you’re not alone! Many bakers wonder about the best ingredients. Using unsalted butter at room temperature or browned butter can enhance flavor.

For structure, eggs are essential, but some recipes can skip them. Toasted pecans add extra taste, so consider roasting them beforehand. Additionally, using brown butter not only improves the flavor but also adds a nutty aroma that elevates the overall taste of your cookies.

When baking, set your oven to 350°F and bake for 10-14 minutes. If your cookies turn out dense, try chilling your butter before creaming. If the dough is crumbly, use your hands to shape it.

For storage, keep cookies at room temperature, or refrigerate or freeze the dough for later use. Don’t forget to measure your flour accurately to avoid hard cookies!