Delicious homemade pecan cookies on a plate

Easy Pecan Cookies Recipe

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Why Make This Recipe

Easy Pecan Cookies are a delightfully sweet treat that combines the rich flavors of brown sugar and buttery pecans. These cookies are not only simple to make but also offer a warm, comforting taste that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or just craving a homemade snack, these cookies are sure to please everyone. Plus, the combination of browned butter with pecans adds a lovely depth of flavor that really makes them stand out.

How to Make Easy Pecan Cookies

Ingredients:

  • 12 tablespoons butter (divided, 1 1/2 sticks)
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 cup chopped pecans

Directions:

  1. Place 8 tablespoons of butter (1 stick) in a small pan and heat over medium heat until melted. Cook it for approximately 5 minutes until it turns light brown, stirring occasionally.
  2. Add the browned butter to a large mixing bowl, including any bits from the bottom of the pan.
  3. Melt the other 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) of butter (in a pan or in the microwave for a few seconds) and add it to the mixing bowl with the browned butter.
  4. Add the brown sugar and beat with an electric mixer or whisk to combine.
  5. Then add the egg and vanilla extract and mix until just combined.
  6. In a separate small bowl, add the flour and baking soda and mix together.
  7. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just barely combined, leaving some large lumps of flour.
  8. Add the pecans and gently stir them into the dough until evenly distributed. Be careful not to over-mix or they will be more dense.
  9. Place the bowl in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to chill.
  10. Preheat the oven to 375°F while the dough is chilling.
  11. After chilling, scoop out 1½ to 2 tablespoons of dough and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
  12. Press down each ball slightly so it’s no thicker than ½”.
  13. Bake for 12-14 minutes.
  14. Allow the cookies to cool on the tray for 10 minutes.

How to Serve Easy Pecan Cookies

Serve these delightful cookies with a glass of milk or a cup of tea for a perfect afternoon snack. They are great on their own or can be enjoyed alongside ice cream for a warm dessert treat. You can also pack them in lunchboxes or share them with friends and family.

How to Store Easy Pecan Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay good for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cookies. Just place them in a freezer-safe bag, and they can last for up to three months. Be sure to thaw them at room temperature before enjoying.

Tips to Make Easy Pecan Cookies

  • Make sure to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to deepen and to help the cookies maintain their shape during baking.
  • Use fresh pecans for the best flavor. You can toast them lightly in a pan to enhance their taste.
  • Don’t overmix the dough once you add the flour; this helps keep the cookies tender.

Variation

You can easily switch things up by adding chocolate chips or substituting walnuts for pecans if you prefer a different nut flavor. For a touch of spice, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon to the dry ingredients.

FAQs

  1. Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted? Yes, you can use unsalted butter. Just add a pinch of salt if you prefer.
  2. What if I don’t have pecans? Feel free to substitute with other nuts such as walnuts or almonds, or omit them entirely for a nut-free version.
  3. How can I make the cookies chewier? For chewier cookies, try using a little more brown sugar and reducing the all-purpose flour by a couple of tablespoons.