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Growing up in Chicago, my kitchen was the heart of our home, where the aroma of freshly baked goods often mingled with the laughter of family gatherings. My Polish-American roots meant that our table was always a delightful mix of traditional and modern flavors. One of my fondest memories is baking with my grandmother, Elizabeth, who was renowned for her apple cake. But today, I’m sharing a recipe that has become a family favorite in my own household—Butter Pecan Cookies. These cookies are a delightful blend of buttery richness and nutty pecan goodness, perfect for any occasion.
Butter pecan cookies hold a special place in my heart. They remind me of cozy autumn afternoons spent with my kids, Ella and Peter, as we baked together and watched the leaves fall outside our window. The recipe is inspired by the comforting flavors of American desserts, with a creative twist that pays homage to my heritage. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, these cookies are a treat you won’t want to miss!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These butter pecan cookies are incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients. They’re perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without being overly sugary. The cookies are crispy on the edges, yet soft and chewy in the center, offering a delightful texture with every bite. Plus, they’re a great source of healthy fats from the pecans, making them a slightly more nutritious treat than your average cookie.
If you’re looking for a cookie that’s both comforting and a little bit fancy, these are the ones for you. They’re ideal for holiday gatherings, afternoon snacks, or even as a homemade gift for friends and family. Once you try them, you’ll understand why they’re a staple in our home.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon for a warm spice kick
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped pecans and cinnamon, if using.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
What Makes This Recipe Special
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Packed with flavor and nutrition
- Perfect for any occasion
- Customizable to your taste preferences
- Budget-friendly ingredients
Expert Tips for Success
For the best results, make sure your butter is at room temperature before you start. This will help it cream more easily with the sugars, resulting in a smoother dough. Also, don’t overmix the dough once you add the flour, as this can lead to tougher cookies. If you prefer a more pronounced pecan flavor, try toasting the pecans lightly before adding them to the dough.
Amazon Affiliate Cooking Tools
When I make this butter pecan cookie recipe, a few simple tools always make prep faster and cleaner. My go-to tool is the Silicone Utensils Set, which is perfect for mixing the dough without scratching my bowls. And for chopping those pecans, the MOSFiATA 8″ Professional Chef’s Knife is a lifesaver, offering precision and ease. These tools make the baking process not only efficient but also enjoyable.
Variations and Substitutions
If you’re looking to switch things up, consider adding chocolate chips or white chocolate chunks to the dough for a sweeter twist. For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. You can also experiment with different nuts like walnuts or almonds if pecans aren’t your favorite.
Serving Suggestions
These butter pecan cookies are best enjoyed with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of tea. They’re also a delightful addition to any dessert platter, paired with fresh fruits or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a festive touch, drizzle them with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
FAQs
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to three months. Just scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Why are my cookies flat?
If your cookies are spreading too much, try chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps the butter firm up, preventing the cookies from spreading too quickly in the oven.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making these butter pecan cookies as much as I do. They’re a little piece of comfort that brings warmth and joy to any occasion. Don’t forget to share your results with me, and remember, the best recipes are made with love and a dash of humor!
👉 I hope you loved making these Butter Pecan Cookies—they’re buttery, nutty, and just the kind of treat that makes any day feel special. If you’re in the mood for more sweet indulgences, why not try my Chocolate Chip Cookies, Oatmeal Raisin Cookies, or Peanut Butter Bars? Join us on our Facebook Page and Facebook Group — and don’t forget to follow on Pinterest for daily inspiration!
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Butter Pecan Cookie: 7 Irresistible Recipes to Bake
Deliciously nutty and buttery cookies perfect for any occasion.
Keep the screen of your device on while you follow the steps.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped pecans and cinnamon, if using.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.