Imagine biting into a warm, buttery cookie bursting with the rich, caramelized flavors of pecan pie. The Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe captures all the indulgence of that classic dessert but in a delightful, bite-sized treat that’s perfect for any occasion. These cookies are not only easy to make but offer a comforting texture of tender crumb and gooey pecan filling that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a cozy afternoon, or sharing with friends, this recipe promises sweet satisfaction in every morsel.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is the first step in making your kitchen smell irresistible. Each component plays a crucial role: from the soft butter that makes the dough tender to the chopped pecans providing that unmistakable crunch and depth of flavor.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and a tender crumb when creamed with sugar.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed): Gives a deep caramel flavor and moisture to the dough.
- 1 large egg: Binds ingredients together while adding structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances sweetness and aromatic warmth.
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the base texture for these cookies.
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cookies rise slightly for a perfect bite.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and accentuates flavors.
- 2/3 cup chopped pecans: The star crunch for the filling with nutty goodness.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (for filling): Adds that classic pecan pie sweetness inside each cookie.
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream: Creates a silky, luscious filling texture.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (melted): Infuses the filling with smooth richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling): Provides a fragrant finish that ties the filling together.
How to Make Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dough
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this prevents sticking and creates an easy cleanup. Begin by creaming the softened butter and 1/2 cup brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is critical as it incorporates air, resulting in tender cookies. Then, beat in the egg and vanilla extract to infuse flavor and moisture.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients and Combine
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add these dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep the dough tender while ensuring all the ingredients are well combined.
Step 3: Shape the Cookies
Roll the dough into approximately 1-inch balls and arrange them evenly spaced on your prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart. Using your thumb or the back of a teaspoon, gently press an indentation into the center of each cookie ball—this will hold the delicious pecan filling later.
Step 4: Make the Pecan Filling
In a small bowl, stir together the chopped pecans, 1/4 cup brown sugar, heavy cream, melted butter, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract. The blend should come together into a sticky yet spoonable mixture that’s packed with nutty sweetness and creamy texture.
Step 5: Fill and Bake
Carefully spoon about 1 teaspoon of the pecan filling into each cookie’s indentation. This way, every cookie has a little gooey surprise in the middle. Place the tray in the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the cookie edges turn lightly golden. Once done, let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes to firm up before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate these cookies even more, consider a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate for added sweetness and visual appeal. Chopped extra pecans sprinkled on top before baking also make for a delightful crunchy finish.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of hot coffee, spiced tea, or even a cold glass of milk. Their rich, buttery flavor complements creamy beverages perfectly, making snack time or dessert feel extra special.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings or gift-giving, arrange your Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe neatly in a festive tin or on a decorative platter lined with parchment paper. Garnish the presentation with cinnamon sticks or fresh cranberries for a seasonal touch that will impress all your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once completely cooled, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They maintain their delicious texture for up to 5 days, making them a convenient treat to enjoy throughout the week.
Freezing
To keep them even longer, freeze baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready, thaw at room temperature or gently warm them for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.
Reheating
If you want to revive their just-baked warmth, pop the cookies into a preheated oven at 300°F for 5 minutes or microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. The filling will soften delightfully, making every bite feel freshly made.
FAQs
Can I toast the pecans before using them in the filling?
Absolutely! Toasting pecans brings out their natural oils and enhances their flavor, adding a deeper, nuttier taste to your Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe.
What if I don’t have heavy cream for the filling?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even whole milk, but keep in mind that the filling might be slightly less rich and creamy.
Are these cookies suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, all the ingredients used in the Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe are vegetarian-friendly, making them perfect for a meat-free diet.
Can I make smaller or larger cookies with this recipe?
Certainly! Just adjust the baking time accordingly. Smaller cookies will bake faster, while larger ones may need a few extra minutes in the oven.
How long can I store these cookies before they go stale?
Stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies stay fresh for about 5 days—perfect for making ahead of holiday celebrations.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about combining the beloved flavors of pecan pie with the convenience of a cookie, and this Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe delivers just that in every bite. It’s an easy, satisfying treat that’s bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection. So go ahead, give these a try and watch how quickly they disappear from your kitchen—friends and family will thank you!
Print
Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Pecan Pie Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic pecan pie, featuring a soft, buttery cookie base filled with a rich, sweet pecan mixture. Perfect for holiday gatherings and gifting, these thumbprint cookies offer a satisfying balance of crunchy pecans and gooey filling, all baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Pecan Filling
- 2/3 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (melted)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a smooth base for the dough.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until fully incorporated, adding moisture and flavor to the dough.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agent and seasoning.
- Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft, cohesive dough forms that is easy to shape.
- Shape Dough Balls: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet to allow space for spreading.
- Create Indentations: Use your thumb or the back of a teaspoon to gently press an indentation in the center of each dough ball, which will hold the pecan filling.
- Prepare Pecan Filling: In a small bowl, combine chopped pecans, 1/4 cup brown sugar, heavy cream, melted butter, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until well mixed, forming a rich, flavorful filling.
- Fill Cookies: Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the pecan filling into each indentation, distributing evenly to ensure each cookie is generously filled.
- Bake: Bake the cookies for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden, indicating they are cooked through but still tender.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to set before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, preserving their shape and texture.
Notes
- For enhanced flavor, you can toast the chopped pecans lightly before mixing into the filling.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
- These cookies are an excellent choice for holiday cookie trays or as thoughtful homemade gifts.
