Name: Irresistibly Soft Butter Pecan Cookies for Cozy Holidays
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 59 min
Ingredients: 0.5 cups Unsalted Butter (melted, warm); 0.5 cups Granulated Sugar; 0.5 cups Brown Sugar (or more granulated sugar as substitute); 1 large Egg (no substitutions); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (pure); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (gluten-free blend optional); 1 teaspoon Cinnamon Powder (optional); 1 teaspoon Cornstarch (substitute with additional flour if needed); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1 teaspoon Baking Powder; 1 cups Pecans (roughly chopped, toasted); 0.5 cups Toffee Bits (optional)

As the holiday season approaches, my kitchen transforms into a cozy haven filled with the comforting scents of cinnamon and toasted pecans. Let’s dive into the magic of making Soft and Chewy Butter Pecan Cookies, a delightful treat that is not only easy to whip up but also sure to please family and friends at your holiday gatherings. These cookies are the perfect blend of soft, chewy goodness and nutty crunch, creating a nostalgic experience with every bite. Plus, they’re quick to prepare, leaving you with plenty of time to enjoy the festive moments that matter most. Can you just imagine the sweet aroma wafting through your home as they bake? Let’s get started on this delicious journey!

Why Are Butter Pecan Cookies a Must?

Comforting Flavor: The rich essence of toasted pecans and warm cinnamon creates a nostalgic flavor that warms your heart during the holiday season.

Quick to Make: These cookies come together effortlessly, allowing you to focus on enjoying time with loved ones instead of slaving away in the kitchen.

Customizable Delight: Feel free to swap in chocolate chips or butterscotch for a fun twist, making them versatile for any occasion!

Perfect Gift Option: Wrapped up as a sweet treat, these cookies make an adorable homemade gift for friends and family during the holidays.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply indulging at home, these cookies are guaranteed to disappear quickly!

Dive into the joy of baking with these delightful Butter Pecan Cookies; they’re perfect alongside a glass of milk or as a sweet finish to your holiday meal!

Butter Pecan Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

Unsalted Butter – melted; adds richness and moisture, but ensure it’s warm—not hot—to prevent cooking the eggs.
Granulated Sugar – provides sweetness and texture; for a softer cookie, you can mix in brown sugar.
Brown Sugar – enhances flavor depth and contributes to softness; if needed, you can use more granulated sugar as a substitute.
Large Eggs – these bind the ingredients and give the cookie structure; no substitutions are recommended for best results.
Vanilla Extract – elevates the overall flavor profile; opt for pure vanilla for maximum flavor impact.
All-Purpose Flour – gives structure to the cookies; can be replaced with a gluten-free blend for those with dietary restrictions.
Cinnamon Powder – adds a warm, holiday spice; if you’re skipping this, your cookies will be less festive but still delicious.
Cornstarch – softens the overall texture; you can substitute it with additional flour if it’s not on hand.
Baking Soda & Baking Powder – essential leavening agents; do not skip these to ensure proper cookie rise and texture.
Pecans – roughly chopped and preferably toasted for enhanced flavor; feel free to replace them with walnuts or omit for nut-free cookies.
Toffee Bits – optional for those who love caramel sweetness; can be swapped with butterscotch chips or left out altogether.

These delicious Butter Pecan Cookies are a delightful addition to any holiday spread, combining simplicity, flavor, and comfort in every bite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Butter Pecan Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine ½ cup of melted unsalted butter with ½ cup of granulated sugar and ½ cup of brown sugar. Use a hand mixer to blend the ingredients on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. You’ll notice the texture change as air is incorporated, creating a delightful base for your Butter Pecan Cookies.

Step 2: Incorporate the Eggs and Vanilla
Next, add in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract to the creamed butter and sugars. Mix on low speed until combined, ensuring a smooth consistency without any lumps. This step is essential as it helps bind the ingredients, adding richness and flavor to your cookies.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon powder. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as you want your Butter Pecan Cookies to remain soft and chewy.

Step 4: Fold in Pecans and Optional Toffee
Gently fold in 1 cup of roughly chopped toasted pecans and, if desired, ½ cup of toffee bits. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to ensure the nuts and bits are evenly distributed throughout the dough. This adds that wonderful nutty crunch and sweetness that elevates your cookies, making them irresistibly delicious.

Step 5: Chill the Dough
Once your dough is mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator to chill for 30-45 minutes. Chilling the dough helps firm it up, making it easier to scoop and handle. You’ll know it’s ready to bake when it becomes less sticky but still soft and pliable.

Step 6: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Tray
While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking. This preparation is key to achieving the perfect golden-brown edges on your Butter Pecan Cookies, enhancing their delightful texture.

Step 7: Scoop and Shape the Dough
Once chilled, remove the dough from the refrigerator. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out small amounts of dough and roll them into balls. Place the balls on the prepared baking tray, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. For an extra touch, roll each ball in granulated sugar before baking.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 11-14 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown but the centers still appear puffed. Keep an eye on them as ovens can vary, and you want that perfect balance of softness and chewiness. Remove them from the oven and let them cool on the tray for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

What to Serve with Soft and Chewy Butter Pecan Cookies

Imagine gathering around with loved ones, the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked cookies mingling with other delightful dishes, creating the perfect holiday atmosphere.

Creamy Hot Chocolate: A luxurious cup of rich hot chocolate enriches the sweet and nutty flavors of the cookies, making every sip an indulgent experience.
Spiced Chai Latte: The warm spices in chai complement the cinnamon notes in the cookies, creating a harmonious blend that warms the heart.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream on the side offers a delightful contrast to the warm, soft texture of the cookies, elevating the enjoyment.
Toasted Pecan Salad: A crisp salad with toasted pecans and a light vinaigrette brings a fresh, crunchy component, balancing the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.
Cheese Platter: An assortment of mild cheeses, such as brie or gouda, alongside the cookies creates an unexpected but delightful savory-sweet pairing for your holiday feast.
Bourbon Caramel Sauce: Drizzling the cookies with warm bourbon caramel sauce adds a decadent twist that is sure to impress your guests and bring out the flavors of the nuts.

Embrace the holiday spirit by serving these delightful Butter Pecan Cookies alongside these comforting and memorable options for a truly festive meal.

Expert Tips for Butter Pecan Cookies

• Butter Temperature: Ensure your melted butter is warm, not hot, to avoid accidentally cooking the eggs during mixing.

• Chill Time: Don’t skip the chilling step! It’s essential for easy handling and achieving that soft yet chewy texture in your butter pecan cookies.

• Baking Watch: Keep an eye on them while baking; the perfect cookie will look “poofy” in the center, deflating slightly as they cool on the rack.

• Customization Options: Feel free to mix in chocolate chips or butterscotch bits for an added twist to your butter pecan cookies.

• Optimal Storage: Store your cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh and soft for up to a week; they can be frozen for longer.

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Butter Pecan Cookies are a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it, which helps enhance the flavors as they meld together. Simply mix all the ingredients until combined, then wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, scoop and shape the dough balls, preheat your oven, and bake for 11-14 minutes. This method ensures your cookies will come out just as delicious and fresh as if you made them on the spot, saving you valuable time during the busy holiday season!

How to Store and Freeze Butter Pecan Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days to maintain their soft and chewy texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Consider layering parchment paper between cookies to prevent sticking.

Reheating: To enjoy your cookies warm, thaw them at room temperature, then microwave for 5-10 seconds or bake at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through.

Freshness Tip: If baking in batches, freeze leftover cookie dough in scooped balls, and pop them into the oven for fresh, warm Butter Pecan Cookies any time you crave a sweet treat!

Butter Pecan Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Ready to make these Butter Pecan Cookies uniquely yours? With a few tasty twists, you can customize to fit your flavor preferences and dietary needs!

Nut-Free: Omit the pecans entirely or replace them with sunflower seeds for a crunchy texture without the nuts.
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to enjoy these cookies without missing out on the texture and flavor.
Sweetener Swap: Use coconut sugar or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a different sweetness profile. Adjust the flour lightly if using liquid sweeteners to maintain the right dough consistency.
Chocolate Lovers: Mix in dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips for an indulgent, decadent touch that pairs beautifully with the pecans.
Cinnamon Kick: Boost the warmth by increasing the cinnamon powder to one and a half teaspoons, elevating that cozy holiday spice.
Caramel Goodness: Instead of toffee bits, try adding caramel chunks or homemade caramel sauce for an unexpected and delightful chew in every cookie.
Flavor Infusion: Add a hint of orange zest or a splash of almond extract in place of some vanilla extract for a refreshing citrus or nutty flavor twist that will surprise your taste buds.
Holiday Spice: For an extra festive touch, mix in nutmeg or allspice for a more complex flavor that sings of holiday cheer.

Baking can be a delightful journey, similar to making Butter Toffee Cookies or snacking on classic Chocolate Chip Cookies. Let your imagination soar and enjoy your personalized Butter Pecan Cookies!

Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I ensure my pecans are perfectly toasted?
To toast pecans, spread them evenly on a baking sheet and place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes. Stir halfway through to avoid burning. They should be fragrant and lightly colored; keep a close eye! This enhances their nuttiness and flavor in your Butter Pecan Cookies.

What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. If you want to maintain that delightful chewiness, placing a slice of bread in the container can help keep moisture intact without making them soggy.

Can I freeze my Butter Pecan Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze, place your cooled cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag, layering parchment paper between cookies to prevent sticking. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature and warm slightly in the oven or microwave.

Why are my cookies spreading too much during baking?
If your cookies spread excessively, it could be due to the butter being too warm when mixed or not chilling the dough long enough. Ensure your dough is chilled for 30-45 minutes before baking, and try not to skip this step—it’s crucial for maintaining the right shape!

What can I substitute for ingredients if I have allergies?
For nut allergies, you can omit the pecans entirely or replace them with sunflower seeds for a crunchy texture. If gluten-free, ensure to use a high-quality gluten-free flour mix that includes xanthan gum. For egg-free, consider flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) as a binding agent.

How do I make my cookies softer while still maintaining a chewy texture?
To achieve soft and chewy Butter Pecan Cookies, incorporate cornstarch into your dough—as per the recipe—and ensure not to overbake them. Baking until the edges are just golden, but the centers are still slightly puffy is key. If you prefer them even softer, decreasing the baking time by a minute or two often helps!