If you have a sweet tooth and a love for nutty treats, you are going to fall head over heels for this Easy Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe. Imagine the rich, buttery flavor of classic pecan pie transformed into soft, chewy cookies that melt in your mouth. These cookies hit all the right notes with their caramel undertones, the perfect crunch of toasted pecans, and a delightful softness that keeps you reaching for just one more. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering or just to satisfy a cozy cravings moment, this recipe is straightforward, quick, and incredibly rewarding.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple pantry staples, each bringing an essential element that creates the perfect texture, flavor, and visual appeal of these pecan pie cookies. From creamy butter to crunchy pecans and the caramel sweetness of brown sugar and corn syrup, these components come together beautifully.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup or 1 stick): Softened to ensure a smooth, fluffy cookie base for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Packed brown sugar (3/4 cup + 1/4 cup): Delivers rich molasses flavor and moisture to keep cookies delightfully soft.
- All-purpose flour (1 1/4 cups): Provides structure while ensuring a tender crumb without toughness.
- Chopped pecans (1 cup): Offers crunch and that signature nutty aroma that makes pecan cookies irresistible.
- Light corn syrup (1/2 cup): Adds a luscious, caramel-like sweetness and helps bind the ingredients with a glossy finish.
How to Make Easy Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Brown Sugar
Begin by softening the unsalted butter. Then, use an electric mixer on medium speed to combine the butter with 3/4 cup of packed brown sugar. Beat them together for 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating the perfect buttery base that will lend the cookies their tender crumb.
Step 2: Incorporate Flour and Pecans
Next, gradually add the all-purpose flour to the creamed butter and sugar, mixing slowly to avoid overworking the dough. When it’s just combined, stir in the chopped pecans by hand. This step ensures the nuts are evenly spread throughout, giving every bite a delightful crunch.
Step 3: Prepare the Caramel Mixture
In a separate saucepan, combine the light corn syrup with the remaining 1/4 cup packed brown sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is silky smooth. Allow it to simmer gently before removing from the heat. This luscious syrup infuses the cookies with that classic pecan pie sweetness.
Step 4: Combine the Syrup with the Dough
Pour the warm syrup mixture into the cookie dough. Use the mixer on the lowest setting or a spatula to blend it gently until the dough thickens to a caramel-like consistency. This step is crucial to developing the rich flavor and chewy texture unique to these pecan pie cookies.
Step 5: Prep and Shape Your Cookies
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking. Drop rounded tablespoons of the dough onto the sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow spreading. For an extra touch, press a few more pecan pieces on top of each cookie to make them look as delicious as they taste.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden while the centers stay soft. This timing ensures that perfect chewy-soft contrast with a hint of caramelized crispness on the edges. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Easy Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top right after baking. The salt accentuates the caramel notes and balances the sweetness, adding a sophisticated twist. You can also drizzle a bit of melted dark chocolate over the cookies for a decadent finish.
Side Dishes
Pair these cookies with a warm cup of coffee, chai tea, or hot cocoa for the ultimate cozy treat. They also complement a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream if you want a dessert that feels extra special.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the cookies on a rustic wooden board surrounded by whole pecans and cinnamon sticks to create a charming display at gatherings. You can even sandwich two cookies together with a layer of caramel or cream cheese frosting for a delightful twist that will impress your friends.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your pecan pie cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and chewy for up to a week, making them perfect for preparing ahead of a party or gifting to loved ones.
Freezing
These cookies freeze beautifully. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper. When stored properly, they keep well for up to 3 months.
Reheating
To enjoy the cookies as if freshly baked, warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5 minutes, or microwave a cookie for about 10 seconds. This will revive their soft texture and bring out their full flavor again.
FAQs
Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts can add a slightly different flavor and texture but still provide that satisfying nutty crunch. Feel free to swap them one-for-one in this Easy Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe.
Do I need to chill the dough before baking?
Chilling is not necessary for this recipe since the dough is rich and soft enough to spread naturally without losing its shape. That makes these cookies even easier and faster to prepare.
What is the best way to chop pecans?
For even distribution, chop your pecans into roughly 1/4-inch pieces. You can use a knife or pulse them gently in a food processor, being careful not to turn them into pecan dust.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup like regular flour. The cookies will still turn out soft and delicious.
Why does the recipe use corn syrup?
Corn syrup helps to create that signature chewy, caramelized texture and glossy finish in pecan desserts. It also prevents the sugar from crystallizing, which keeps your cookies irresistibly tender.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe has everything you want in a sweet treat: delightful textures, rich flavors, and simplicity in preparation. Once you try them, these cookies may quickly become your go-to for any occasion that calls for homemade comfort and joy. So get your mixing bowls ready and share these little nuggets of deliciousness with the people you love!
Print
Easy Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Easy Pecan Pie Cookies are soft, delicious, and loaded with a rich caramel-like pecan filling. Inspired by classic pecan pie flavors, this recipe creates tender cookies with a buttery base and a luscious, sweet topping that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Pecan Pie Filling
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
Instructions
- Cream Butter and Sugar: Cream together the softened unsalted butter and 3/4 cup packed brown sugar in a large mixing bowl with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Add Flour and Pecans: Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the creamed mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Stir in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
- Prepare Pecan Pie Filling: In a separate saucepan, combine the light corn syrup and the remaining 1/4 cup packed brown sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until the brown sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth. Simmer gently, then remove from heat.
- Combine Filling with Dough: Pour the warm corn syrup and brown sugar mixture into the cookie dough. Mix on the lowest speed or with a spatula until just incorporated and the dough has a thick, caramel-like consistency.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the sheets, leaving 2 inches between cookies. Press a few extra pecans on top if desired.
- Bake Cookies: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and the centers are still slightly soft. Let cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Use room temperature butter for easier creaming and better texture.
- Be careful not to overbake to keep cookies soft and chewy.
- Pressing extra pecans on top adds a nice crunch and decorative touch.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to 5 days.
