Pecan Pie Cookies
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Delight in the unique combination of pecan pie and cookie in these deliciously sweet Pecan Pie Cookies.
Pecan Pie Cookies combine the rich, buttery flavor of traditional pecan pie with the convenience and portability of a cookie. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet treat any time of year!
Why You'll Love These Cookies
- Rich, buttery flavor reminiscent of classic pecan pie
- Chewy texture with a crunchy pecan topping
- Perfect for sharing during the holidays or at gatherings
The Perfect Holiday Treat
Pecan Pie Cookies are not just a delightful dessert; they embody the spirit of the holidays. The rich, buttery flavor combined with the sweet, nutty filling makes them an ideal addition to any holiday dessert table. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or attending a potluck, these cookies are sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more.
These cookies also make a fantastic gift during the holiday season. Package them in decorative tins or boxes, and share the joy of homemade treats with friends, family, and coworkers. The combination of cookie and pie in each bite creates a nostalgic experience that everyone will appreciate.
Customizing Your Cookies
One of the best things about Pecan Pie Cookies is their versatility. While the classic recipe is delicious, you can easily customize it to suit your tastes. Consider adding chocolate chips for a rich twist or a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a delightful contrast to the sweetness. You can also substitute walnuts or almonds for pecans if you prefer a different nut flavor.
Experimenting with spices can also elevate the cookies. A hint of cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the overall flavor profile, making your cookies even more inviting. Don’t hesitate to get creative and make them your own!
Storage and Freshness Tips
To keep your Pecan Pie Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week, although they’re often gone much sooner! If you want to keep them for longer, consider freezing them. Simply layer the cookies between parchment paper in an airtight container and freeze for up to three months.
When you’re ready to enjoy frozen cookies, let them thaw at room temperature. You can also warm them in the oven for a few minutes to bring back their freshly baked texture. This way, you’ll always have a delicious treat on hand!
Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped pecans
For the Filling
- 1 cup corn syrup
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole pecans, halved
Make sure to have all ingredients at room temperature for best results.
Instructions
Prepare the Cookie Dough
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. Beat in the egg and vanilla until well combined. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients until combined. Fold in the chopped pecans.
Make the Filling
In a medium bowl, mix together the corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth. Stir in the whole pecans.
Assemble and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Drop tablespoonfuls of cookie dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each. Make a small indentation in the center of each cookie and spoon a little of the filling mixture into each. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy these cookies warm or store them in an airtight container for up to a week.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cookies ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the cookie dough and filling a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble and bake the cookies. This can save you time during busy holiday preparations.
What can I serve with Pecan Pie Cookies? These cookies pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages. Consider serving them with a warm cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. They also make a delightful addition to a dessert platter alongside other holiday treats.
Nutritional Information
While Pecan Pie Cookies are a sweet indulgence, they also offer some nutritional benefits. Pecans are a good source of healthy fats, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. However, moderation is key, especially during the holiday season, when it’s easy to overindulge.
If you’re looking for ways to make these cookies a bit healthier, consider reducing the sugar slightly or using alternative sweeteners. You can also experiment with whole grain flour to increase the fiber content. Enjoying homemade treats can still be part of a balanced diet!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use different nuts?
Yes, you can substitute walnuts or almonds for pecans if desired.
→ How do I store leftover cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can refrigerate the dough for up to 3 days before baking.
→ Are these cookies gluten-free?
To make them gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
Pecan Pie Cookies
Delight in the unique combination of pecan pie and cookie in these deliciously sweet Pecan Pie Cookies.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 24 cookies
What You'll Need
For the Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped pecans
For the Filling
- 1 cup corn syrup
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole pecans, halved
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. Beat in the egg and vanilla until well combined. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients until combined. Fold in the chopped pecans.
In a medium bowl, mix together the corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth. Stir in the whole pecans.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Drop tablespoonfuls of cookie dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each. Make a small indentation in the center of each cookie and spoon a little of the filling mixture into each. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 70mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 2g