Pecan Pie Cookies
These Pecan Pie Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of traditional pecan pie with the convenience of a cookie. Perfect for holiday gatherings, family celebrations, or simply enjoying at home, these cookies offer a unique twist that everyone will love. With their buttery base and gooey pecan topping, they are sure to become a favorite in your dessert lineup!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these cookies in no time.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of butter, sugar, and pecans creates a mouthwatering taste that is hard to resist.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party or a weekend treat, these cookies fit right in.
- Versatile Treat: These cookies can be enjoyed warm out of the oven or stored for later enjoyment.
- Kid-Friendly Fun: Involve the kids in the baking process for a fun family activity.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Pecan Pie Cookies, gather your tools for an efficient cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking your cookies to perfection.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
Ingredients
These Pecan Pie Cookies are easy to make, absolutely delicious, and perfect for any festive occasion! They feature a buttery cookie base topped with a gooey pecan filling that will disappear before you know it.
For the Cookie Base
- 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
For the Pecan Filling
- 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 prepare for baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough
In a large bowl:
1. Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. 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 may look slightly crumbly but should hold together when pressed.
Step 4: Shape the Cookies
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough:
– Roll into balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
– Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to create an indentation in each ball.
Step 5: Make the Pecan Filling
In another bowl:
– Combine the chopped pecans, brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
– Mix well until everything is sticky and well combined.
Step 6: Fill the Cookies
Spoon a small amount of pecan filling into each indentation:
– Fill them generously to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
Step 7: Bake
Bake your cookies for 12-15 minutes:
– Look for lightly golden edges. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy these delightful Pecan Pie Cookies as they become an instant hit among friends and family!
How to Serve Pecan Pie Cookies
Pecan Pie Cookies are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply indulging at home, these cookies can elevate any occasion.
With a Glass of Milk
- Pair these cookies with an ice-cold glass of milk for a classic combination that brings out the rich flavors.
As a Dessert Platter
- Arrange the Pecan Pie Cookies on a dessert platter alongside other sweets like brownies and mini cheesecakes for a beautiful presentation.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each cookie for an extra creamy treat that enhances the flavors.
With Coffee or Tea
- Enjoy these cookies with your morning coffee or afternoon tea. The buttery taste complements both beverages perfectly.
Wrapped as Gifts
- Package the cookies in decorative boxes or bags to create thoughtful gifts for friends and family during the holidays.
At Holiday Parties
- Serve these delightful cookies at holiday parties to impress guests with their unique flavor and festive appeal.
How to Perfect Pecan Pie Cookies
To achieve the best results when making Pecan Pie Cookies, follow these helpful tips.
- Use room temperature butter: Softened butter blends better with sugar, creating a lighter texture in your cookies.
- Don’t overmix: Mix until just combined when adding flour to avoid tough cookies. A light touch is key!
- Chill the dough: For firmer cookies, refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps maintain their shape.
- Watch your baking time: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking. Remove them when they are lightly golden around the edges for the best texture.
- Experiment with nuts: While pecans are traditional, try adding walnuts or almonds for a different twist on flavor.
- Store properly: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness and avoid drying out.
Best Side Dishes for Pecan Pie Cookies
Pecan Pie Cookies can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their deliciousness. Here are some great options:
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creaminess and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
- Fruit Salad: Fresh fruit provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of pecan pie cookies.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can add savory notes that pair well with sweet treats.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling chocolate sauce over the cookies creates an indulgent dessert experience.
- Caramel Sauce: Warm caramel sauce offers an extra layer of sweetness that complements pecans beautifully.
- Chai Latte: Enjoying these cookies with a spiced chai latte brings warmth and comfort to your snack time.
- Hot Cocoa: For colder months, serve with hot cocoa for a cozy pairing that everyone will love.
- Fruit Compote: A warm fruit compote can add acidity and brightness, balancing out the cookie’s richness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Pecan Pie Cookies can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common errors and how to avoid them.
- Using cold butter: Cold butter doesn’t cream well with sugar. Always use softened butter for a light and fluffy texture.
- Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for tender Pecan Pie Cookies.
- Not measuring flour accurately: Too much flour can make your cookies dry. Use the spoon-and-level method to measure correctly.
- Skipping the parchment paper: Baking directly on the sheet can cause sticking. Always line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Ignoring cooling time: Letting cookies cool on the baking sheet is important. This prevents them from breaking apart when transferring.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Keep in a cool area of the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
Freezing Pecan Pie Cookies
- Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet for about 1 hour before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Pecan Pie Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re curious about making Pecan Pie Cookies, here are some common questions and answers.
Can I use different nuts in Pecan Pie Cookies?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if desired.
How do I make my cookies chewy?
To achieve chewiness, slightly underbake your cookies and let them rest on the baking sheet before transferring.
Are Pecan Pie Cookies gluten-free?
You can make them gluten-free by using almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
What should I serve with Pecan Pie Cookies?
These cookies pair wonderfully with coffee or hot chocolate, making them perfect for dessert!
Final Thoughts
These Pecan Pie Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile for various occasions. Feel free to customize them by adding chocolate chips or spices like cinnamon. Try this recipe today, and you’ll be amazed at how quickly they disappear!
Pecan Pie Cookies
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Pecan Pie Cookies, a unique treat that blends the classic taste of pecan pie with the convenience of cookies. These buttery bites feature a gooey pecan filling that melts in your mouth. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights at home, Pecan Pie Cookies are sure to impress friends and family alike. With easy preparation and a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch that will disappear in no time. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or stored for later, these cookies offer a sweet escape into comfort food heaven.
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
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg yolk and vanilla; mix well.
- Stir in flour and salt until just combined.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized dough portions onto the prepared baking sheet, creating indentations in each ball.
- In another bowl, combine chopped pecans, brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt to make the filling.
- Fill each cookie indentation generously with the pecan mixture.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Let cool before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (25g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
