If you have a soft spot for classic cookies with a little extra flair, you are going to fall head over heels for this Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe. These cookies strike the perfect balance between a buttery, tender crumb and the rich, toasty crunch of pecans, all wrapped up with a luscious layer of smooth, sweet frosting. Whether you’re baking for a cozy afternoon tea or a festive gathering, this recipe promises delicious comfort and a few smiles with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of these Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe starts with simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a vital role. From the creamy softness of butter to the warm nuttiness of toasted pecans, every component is essential for the perfect texture, flavor, and appearance.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides the rich, creamy base that keeps cookies tender and moist.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a slight crispness on the edges.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: Brings moisture and a hint of caramel depth to the flavor.
- 2 large eggs: Acts as a binder to hold the dough together while adding richness.
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Elevates the overall flavor with warm floral notes.
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the sturdy structure needed for the perfect bite.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise slightly for a tender texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the buttery flavors.
- 1 1/2 cups pecans, chopped and toasted: Adds delightful crunch and a nutty aroma that’s unmistakable.
- 2 cups powdered sugar: The base of the frosting, providing smooth sweetness.
- 3 tablespoons milk: Helps create a creamy, spreadable frosting consistency.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds extra warmth and depth to the frosting’s flavor.
How to Make Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars
Begin by combining the softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar in a large bowl. Beat them together for 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture turns light and fluffy. This step is key because it incorporates air to make the cookies soft yet slightly crisp on the edges.
Step 2: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, add the eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition to ensure a smooth mixture. Stir in 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, which infuses the dough with a lovely aroma that you’ll notice even before baking.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt together. This blend ensures even distribution of the raising agent and seasoning. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet batter, mixing just until combined. Over mixing here can lead to tougher cookies, so keep it gentle.
Step 4: Fold in Toasted Pecans
Gently fold the toasted chopped pecans into the dough by hand. The toasting process intensifies their nutty flavor and brings an irresistible crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft cookie.
Step 5: Prepare and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Scoop out dough in 2-tablespoon portions and place them 2 inches apart on the baking sheets. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges are golden and the centers are just set.
Step 6: Cool Completely
Allow the cookies to cool fully on wire racks before you move on to frosting. This lets them set perfectly so the frosting won’t melt or slide off when applied.
Step 7: Make the Frosting
Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until you achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency. This simple frosting complements the buttery pecan cookies without overpowering their natural flavor.
Step 8: Frost and Finish
Spread frosting generously onto each cooled cookie. For an extra touch of elegance and texture, sprinkle additional chopped pecans on top. Let the frosting set before serving or storing your cookies.
How to Serve Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a few extra toasted pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon on top of the frosting makes these cookies look as delightful as they taste. Those tiny details can wow your guests and make every bite feel special.
Side Dishes
These cookies are a fantastic complement to a warm cup of coffee, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a chilled glass of milk. The richness of the pecans paired with creamy frosting balances perfectly with these classic beverages and desserts.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging the Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe on a tiered dessert stand for parties, or stack a few tied with a rustic ribbon for adorable edible gifts. You could even sandwich a bit more frosting between two cookies for a decadent twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain freshness. Keep them in a single layer or separated by parchment to avoid the frosting sticking together.
Freezing
You can freeze unfrosted cookie dough balls or fully baked cookies without frosting wrapped well in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag. Frozen cookies maintain their quality for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and frost fresh for the best taste.
Reheating
If you want to enjoy warm cookies, briefly microwave a single cookie for 10-15 seconds. However, frosting is best enjoyed cool, so consider warming the cookie before frosting or serve with frosting at room temperature.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or macadamia nuts can be great substitutes and bring their own unique flavors and textures to this Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe. Just toast them for the best taste.
What if I don’t have powdered sugar for the frosting?
Powdered sugar is ideal for smooth frosting, but you can make a quick substitute by blending granulated sugar in a blender to a fine powder. This will help you achieve that creamy texture.
How do I make sure my cookies are soft and not too crunchy?
Be careful not to overbake. Take them out just as the edges turn golden and the centers look set but still soft. Cooling on a wire rack also helps prevent sogginess while maintaining tenderness.
Can I make these cookies vegan?
With some modifications like using vegan butter, egg replacers, and plant-based milk for the frosting, you can adapt this Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe to be vegan-friendly while keeping much of the original charm.
Is it necessary to toast the pecans?
Toasting pecans enhances their flavor and adds a delicious aroma, but if you’re short on time, you can use them raw. Just keep in mind that the final cookies will have a milder nutty taste.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like the comforting embrace of freshly baked Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe to brighten your day. From the moment these cookies come out of the oven to the sweet frosting finishing touch, they invite warmth and joy into any kitchen. I really hope you give this recipe a go—it’s a true crowd-pleaser that never gets old.
Print
Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these classic Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies, featuring a rich, buttery dough loaded with toasted pecans and topped with a sweet vanilla frosting. Perfectly baked to golden edges with a soft center, these cookies offer a delicious combination of nutty crunch and creamy sweetness for every occasion.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups pecans, chopped and toasted
Frosting
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes using an electric mixer.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure incorporation. Stir in the vanilla extract until evenly combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to distribute the leavening and seasoning evenly.
- Mix Dry into Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the dough.
- Fold in Pecans: Gently fold the toasted and chopped pecans into the dough by hand to maintain their texture and distribute evenly.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Using a spoon or cookie scoop, form 2-tablespoon portions of dough and place them about 2 inches apart on the baking sheets.
- Bake Cookies: Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges are golden and the centers are just set. Remove from oven and transfer the cookies to wire racks to cool completely.
- Make the Frosting: Whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and spreadable, adjusting consistency as needed.
- Frost the Cookies: Once the cookies are fully cooled, spread the frosting evenly on each cookie. Optionally, sprinkle with extra chopped pecans. Let the frosting set before serving or storing.
Notes
- To toast pecans, spread them evenly on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Allow cookies to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
- For a thicker frosting, add more powdered sugar; for a thinner glaze, add a little more milk.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Optional: Add a pinch of cinnamon to the dough for a warm spice flavor.
