Butter Pecan Cookies: The Perfect Blend of Butter and Crunch

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Butter Pecan Cookies are a delightful, time-honored treat that offers the perfect balance of buttery richness and crunchy pecans. With just the right combination of ingredients, these cookies are a favorite for all ages. Whether you’re looking for a new recipe to try out during the holidays, or just want to make a batch for the family, this easy-to-follow recipe is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

In this article, we’ll cover the full recipe, nutritional benefits, tips for perfecting your cookies, and answer frequently asked questions. Let’s dive into how you can make these irresistible treats right at home!

Why You’ll Love Butter Pecan Cookies

Butter pecan cookies stand out for their rich, buttery flavor and nutty texture. The pecans provide a lovely crunch, while the butter gives the cookie its signature softness. These cookies are:

Perfect for any occasion
Easy to make in under 30 minutes
A crowd-pleaser that can be customized with toppings or additional ingredients

Ingredients: What You’ll Need for Butter Pecan Cookies

Before getting started, make sure you have all the ingredients lined up. Here’s a list of everything you need to whip up these scrumptious Butter Pecan Cookies.

Main Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
(Butter is essential for giving these cookies their rich, decadent flavor.)
1 cup granulated sugar
(This helps sweeten the dough without overpowering the nutty flavor of the pecans.)

1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
(Brown sugar adds moisture and a slight caramelized flavor.)
2 large eggs
(The eggs bind the dough and give the cookies a soft, chewy texture.)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
(Vanilla extract enhances the flavor and gives the cookies a warm, aromatic touch.)

2 cups all-purpose flour
(Flour provides structure to the cookies.)
1 teaspoon baking soda
(Baking soda helps the cookies rise and spread.)
1/2 teaspoon salt
(A little salt balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor.)

1 ½ cups chopped pecans
(Pecans are the star of the show, adding crunch and a toasty, nutty flavor.)
1/2 cup buttered pecan halves (optional, for topping)
(These are a nice decorative touch and add extra buttery flavor.)

Directions: Step-by-Step Guide to Making Butter Pecan Cookies

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure the cookies don’t stick and for easier cleanup.

2. Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial because creaming the butter and sugar together properly ensures that air is incorporated into the dough, giving the cookies their soft texture.

3. Add Eggs and Vanilla Extract

Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract to round out the flavor.

4. Mix Dry Ingredients Separately

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, stirring until just combined. Don’t overmix—doing so can make the cookies tough.

5. Add the Pecans

Fold in the chopped pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. The pecans add that signature crunch to these cookies.

6. Form the Cookies

Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. If you’d like, press a buttered pecan half into the center of each cookie for a decorative touch.

7. Bake the Cookies

Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Be careful not to overbake, as the cookies will continue to firm up while cooling. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes and Tips for Perfect Butter Pecan Cookies

Getting the best out of your Butter Pecan Cookies requires a few expert tips to ensure they turn out just right:

Softened Butter Is Key: Make sure the butter is softened, not melted. Soft butter allows air to be trapped in the dough, creating that tender, soft texture everyone loves.
Chill the Dough: If you want thicker cookies, refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.

Using Salted Butter? If you only have salted butter on hand, reduce the added salt in the recipe by half.
Toast the Pecans: For an extra boost of flavor, consider toasting the pecans before folding them into the dough. Simply place them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant.

Nutritional Information & Health Benefits of Pecans

While Butter Pecan Cookies are a sweet indulgence, it’s always good to know what you’re consuming. Pecans, the main star in this recipe, are loaded with healthy fats, fiber, and essential nutrients.

Calories: 180
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 2g

Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 30mg

Sodium: 85mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 12g

Vitamin A: 4% DV
Calcium: 2% DV
Iron: 1% DV

Health Benefits of Pecans

Pecans are a fantastic source of healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help support heart health. They also provide essential minerals like magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc. Regular consumption of pecans has been linked to reduced inflammation and improved digestion.

FAQs

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to choose one that includes a binder like xanthan gum to maintain the structure of the cookies.

How do I store Butter Pecan Cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Alternatively, you can freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months.

Can I freeze the dough?

Definitely! Scoop out portions of the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer the dough balls to a ziplock bag and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just add an extra minute or two to the bake time.

Why are my cookies spreading too much?

If your cookies are spreading too much, it could be because the butter was too soft or melted. To fix this, try chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking.

Can I add other ingredients like chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips, toffee bits, or even dried cranberries can add a fun twist to your Butter Pecan Cookies.

Final Thoughts on Butter Pecan Cookies

Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving something sweet, Butter Pecan Cookies are a must-try. With their buttery flavor and crunchy texture, they’re bound to be a hit with everyone. Plus, they’re versatile—feel free to add your own spin to the recipe by incorporating different types of nuts or toppings. Enjoy the process and happy baking!

By following these tips and this simple recipe, you’re sure to create cookies that not only taste amazing but look just as good. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to make the best batch of Butter Pecan Cookies you’ve ever tasted!

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