Buttery Pecan Cookies Recipe
Introduction
Butter Pecan Cookies are a delightful treat combining rich buttery flavor with the nutty crunch of pecans. These cookies are simple to make and perfect for sharing or enjoying with a cup of tea.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (120g) chopped pecans
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Step 2: Gradually add the flour to the butter mixture, stirring until a dough forms. Fold in the chopped pecans and vanilla extract evenly.
- Step 3: Scoop spoonfuls of the dough onto an ungreased baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Step 4: Bake the cookies for 12–15 minutes or until the edges turn lightly golden. Remove from oven and allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips & Variations
- Toast the pecans lightly before folding them in to enhance their flavor and crunch.
- Replace half the granulated sugar with brown sugar for a deeper, caramel-like taste.
- Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness and bring out the butter’s richness.
Storage
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to three months. To reheat, warm in a low oven for a few minutes or enjoy them at room temperature.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, walnuts or almonds make great substitutes and will provide a similar crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking?
Make sure your butter is softened but not melted, and chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to help the cookies keep their shape.
PrintButtery Pecan Cookies Recipe
Deliciously rich and buttery, these Butter Pecan Cookies feature a tender texture infused with toasted pecans and a hint of vanilla. Perfectly crisp on the edges and soft inside, they are a classic treat that combines simple ingredients for a delightful homemade cookie experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract, then gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing continuously to form a soft dough.
- Fold in Pecans: Gently fold the chopped pecans into the dough, ensuring they are evenly distributed without overmixing, which could toughen the dough.
- Shape Cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop spoonfuls of dough onto an ungreased baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart to allow spreading.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers have set.
- Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Use room temperature butter for easier creaming and a better texture.
- Toast pecans lightly before adding for added depth of flavor.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- For a slightly softer cookie, reduce the baking time by 1-2 minutes.
- Substitute vanilla extract with almond extract for a different flavor profile.
Keywords: butter pecan cookies, homemade cookies, pecan cookies, buttery cookies, vanilla cookies
