Step-by-Step Instructions:
1️⃣ Preheat & Prep:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
2️⃣ Toast the Pecans (Optional but Recommended):
- In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the chopped pecans for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant.
- Let them cool while you prepare the dough.
3️⃣ Cream Butter & Sugars:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
4️⃣ Add Egg & Vanilla:
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
5️⃣ Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
6️⃣ Combine & Fold:
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
- Gently fold in the chopped pecans.
7️⃣ Scoop & Bake:
- Scoop dough into 1 ½-inch balls and place them about 2 inches apart on your baking sheets.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden and centers look set.
8️⃣ Cool & Enjoy:
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Serve warm or store in an airtight container.
Pro Tips for Perfect Butter Pecan Cookies:
- Toast the pecans – it deepens their flavor and adds irresistible crunch.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes if you want thicker cookies with less spread.
- Use real butter – this recipe is all about buttery richness!
Why You’ll Love These Cookies:
- Rich & Buttery Flavor: Every bite melts in your mouth with warm, toasted pecan goodness.
- Easy to Make: No complicated steps—just classic cookie joy.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for holidays, cookie swaps, or anytime you need a cozy treat.
Nutritional Info (per cookie, approx.):
- Calories: ~190
- Carbs: ~20g
- Fat: ~11g
- Protein: ~2g
- Sugar: ~12g
FAQ About Butter Pecan Cookies:
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes! Scoop dough balls onto a tray, freeze until firm, then store in a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen—just add 1–2 minutes to bake time.
Do I have to toast the pecans?
Not required, but it enhances their flavor beautifully.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes—just substitute your favorite 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Flavor Variations:
- Maple Butter Pecan: Add ½ tsp maple extract for a fall twist.
- Chocolate Chip Pecan: Toss in ½ cup mini chocolate chips for a nutty twist on a classic.
- Spiced Pecan Cookies: Add ¼ tsp nutmeg and a pinch of cloves for holiday warmth.
Perfect for Every Occasion:
Whether you’re baking for a holiday platter, gifting to friends, or treating yourself on a cozy afternoon, these Butter Pecan Cookies are the perfect blend of comfort and indulgence.
Success with Butter Pecan Cookies:
Golden, nutty, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious—once you try these cookies, you’ll want them on repeat all year long. They’re everything a cozy cookie should be and then some.
Baked a batch? Share your cookie creations with us—because nothing says love like a plate of warm cookies!
