Description

Pecan Pie Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic pecan pie, a beloved dessert that has its roots in Southern American cuisine. These cookies capture the essence of the traditional pie, with a buttery, flaky texture and a rich, nutty filling that boasts the sweet crunch of toasted pecans. Imagine biting into a cookie that encapsulates the warm, gooey goodness of a pecan pie nestled in the palm of your hand. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also transforms the nostalgic flavors we all love into a fun, shareable treat. Perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy family nights, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, these cookies are bound to become a favorite in your home.

Whether you're an experienced baker or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is designed to bring joy and satisfaction to your kitchen. The combination of the crisp cookie base and the sweet, caramel-like filling makes these cookies irresistible. Let’s dive into the details of creating these scrumptious delights that are sure to impress family and friends.

Ingredients

• For the cookie dough:
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• For the pecan filling:
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups pecans, coarsely chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• For topping (optional):
• 1/2 cup additional pecans, chopped
• Sea salt for sprinkling

Preparation Method

To begin making your Pecan Pie Cookies, you will first need to prepare the cookie dough. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes, and it's crucial to ensure that the sugars are well incorporated to give your cookies a beautiful texture.

Next, add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps to create a smooth and cohesive dough. Then, blend in the vanilla extract, which will add a comforting aroma to your cookies.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies. Once your dough has formed, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour. Chilling the dough is essential, as it helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.

While the dough is chilling, you can prepare the pecan filling. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the light corn syrup, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Whisk these ingredients together until they are fully combined and smooth. Next, add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until just blended.

Once the wet ingredients are mixed, fold in the coarsely chopped pecans and a pinch of salt. The pecans will add a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor to your cookies, reminiscent of traditional pecan pie filling. Set this mixture aside while you wait for the dough to chill.

After the dough has chilled, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and to make cleanup easier.

Take the chilled dough out of the refrigerator and scoop out about one tablespoon of dough. Roll it into a ball and then flatten it slightly in your palm. This will be the base for your cookie. Place the flattened dough on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about two inches of space between each cookie as they will spread slightly while baking.

Once you have placed all the dough balls on the baking sheet, make a small indentation in the center of each cookie using your thumb or the back of a teaspoon. This will create a little well for your pecan filling.

Now, it’s time to fill those wells with the pecan mixture. Spoon about one teaspoon of the pecan filling into each indentation, being careful not to overfill. If you like a little extra crunch, sprinkle some chopped pecans on top of the filling.

Once all the cookies are filled, place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the cookies should be golden brown around the edges but still soft in the center. This is where the magic happens! As they bake, the filling will bubble slightly and create that signature pecan pie look.

When the cookies are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This will help them set and ensure you don’t lose any of that delicious filling.

For an extra touch, consider sprinkling a tiny pinch of sea salt over the top of the cookies while they are still warm. The contrast of the sweet filling and the salty sprinkle is simply divine.

Tips and Conclusion

If you have any leftover pecan filling, don’t toss it! You can use it as a topping for pancakes or waffles, or even as a filling for pastries. These cookies store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, and they can also be frozen for longer storage. To freeze, place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds for that fresh-baked taste.




Creating Pecan Pie Cookies is an enjoyable and rewarding experience that brings the essence of a classic dessert into a fun and portable form. The balance of the buttery cookie with the sweet, crunchy filling is a treat that everyone will love. As you bake and savor these cookies, you’ll not only indulge in a delicious snack but also create cherished memories in the kitchen.

If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also want to explore other delightful treats like Chocolate Chip Cookies or Maple Pecan Muffins, which share that same comforting sweetness. Feel free to share this recipe with friends and family, and encourage them to dive into the world of baking. Happy baking, and may your kitchen always be filled with the aroma of fresh cookies!