Pecan Pie Cookies

Pecan Pie Cookies

Indulge in the warm, nutty richness of pecan pie—transformed into a bite-sized treat. These Pecan Pie Cookies combine the buttery goodness of a cookie base with a gooey, crunchy pecan topping, offering all the festive flavors you love in an easy-to-make recipe."

Why This Recipe Stands Out

• Quick and Easy: No need to bake a full pie—get the same rich flavors in half the time.
• Perfectly Portion-Controlled: Enjoy the sweetness of pecan pie in manageable, guilt-free bites.
• Festive and Gift-Worthy: Ideal for holiday cookie platters or as edible gifts.
• Simple Ingredients: Pantry staples come together for a show-stopping treat.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Base:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 egg yolk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Pecan Filling:

• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in egg yolk and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add flour, stirring until a soft dough forms.
5. Shape Dough: Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart.
6. Create Indentations: Gently press the center of each ball with your thumb or the back of a spoon to create a well for the filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Pecan Filling

1. Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, combine brown sugar, heavy cream, and butter. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens (about 2–3 minutes).
2. Add Pecans: Remove from heat and mix in vanilla extract and chopped pecans.

Step 3: Fill and Bake

1. Add Filling: Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the pecan mixture into the indentation of each cookie. Avoid overfilling to prevent spilling during baking.
2. Bake: Bake cookies for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the filling is set.
3. Cool: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving and Storage

• Serving Suggestion: Pair these cookies with a warm cup of coffee, tea, or hot cocoa for a delightful treat. They also shine as part of a holiday dessert spread.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Pro Tips for Perfect Cookies

• Even Cookie Size: Use a cookie scoop to ensure uniform dough balls for even baking.
• Chill Dough: If your dough is too soft to work with, refrigerate it for 15–20 minutes before shaping.
• Adjust Filling Consistency: Allow the filling to cool slightly before adding it to the cookies for a thicker texture.
• Prevent Spread: Chill the shaped cookies for 10 minutes before baking to help them hold their shape.

Creative Variations

1. Nut Alternatives: Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds to mix up the flavors.
2. Chocolate Drizzle: Add a drizzle of melted dark or white chocolate over the baked cookies for a touch of elegance.
3. Salted Caramel Twist: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the filling before baking for a sweet-and-salty combination.

FAQs

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but omit the additional salt in the recipe to avoid over-salting.

2. Can I make the dough in advance?
Absolutely. Prepare the dough up to two days ahead, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate until ready to bake.

3. How do I prevent the filling from spilling?
Avoid overfilling the cookies and allow the filling to cool slightly before adding it to the dough.

4. Can I freeze the dough?
Yes! Shape the dough into balls and freeze on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the baking time.

5. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that contains xanthan gum for a seamless swap.

Why These Cookies Are Perfect for the Holidays

Pecan Pie Cookies combine the nostalgia of traditional pecan pie with the convenience of a handheld treat. Their bite-sized nature makes them a crowd-pleaser, while the buttery, nutty flavors evoke the warmth of the holiday season. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a thoughtful homemade gift, these cookies are the perfect choice.

If you’re a fan of pecan pie, you’ll adore these Pecan Pie Cookies. They’re simple to make, packed with flavor, and versatile enough for any occasion. So grab your apron and baking sheet, and create a batch of these irresistible treats. Your taste buds—and your guests—will thank you! 🎄🍪✨